L.A. Zoo Lights is back for its third year at the Los Angeles Zoo …with more nights and more lights! And this past weekend, we got to experience the magic for the first time. We were nicely bundled for our self-guided tour through select areas of the zoo that lasted about 90 mins, which is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. I made sure we all had dinner before going in, because near the entrance, you’ll find tempting dessert kiosks. Seriously, how can you resist freshly popped kettle-corn?! We bought a bag. 🙂
If your kids are like mine, they’re gonna wonder where all the animals are. While most animal residents are asleep, visitors can view the LAIR’s amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles as well as enjoy the only opportunity in Los Angeles to see a real reindeer family comprised of two adults and two adorable babies. The family were sleeping so I made sure my boys were quiet. We’ll be back for a daytime experience of Reindeer Romp.
The boys love going inside the LAIR, so you can imagine their “awe” moment when they saw the giant illuminated snake atop of the entrance as it flicks its tongue! Inside the LAIR, guests are bathed in ultraviolet light for a black light party with scurrying “insects” above the rock walls.
Just outside the exit of the LAIR, you’ll notice a glittering snow-covered setting for photos with Santa Claus, which is available for an additional fee on select dates. There was a long line on Saturday night, so I was happy the kids didn’t see him.
Also outside the exit, we viewed a fun water show that was set to music as lasers projected Holiday themed animation. We all enjoyed it because it reminded us of Disney’s California Adventure, World of Color.
Throughout the selected areas of the zoo, you’ll find animal characters brought to “life” with LED lights by the thousands, 3-D animated projections, a disco ball forest, glittering twinkle tunnels, an animal shadow puppet installation, and a new waterfall feature in the Children’s Zoo.
There’s so much to see and you have till January 8, 2017 to check it out!
Tickets start at $11 for children ages 2 to 12 (under 2 are free) and $14 for adults. GLAZA members enjoy ticket discounts of up to 33%. This year’s new unlimited-access L.A. Zoo Lights Season Pass, with express entry privileges nightly, is $49 for adults and $44 for children ages 2 to 12 (Holiday Happy Hour and Family New Year’s Eve benefits require a separate ticket). Tickets for HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR are $75 per person (ages 21 and up). FAMILY NEW YEAR’S EVE tickets are $69 for adults and $45 for children ages 2 to 12, or $64 (adults) and $40 (children) for GLAZA members. For tickets and more info, visit LAZoolights.org
Disclosure: We attended L.A. Zoo Lights as media. All opinions are my own.
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