Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo showing a park, zoo animals and signage
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo featuring zoo animals and cuddly or friendly animals
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo which includes signage and zoo animals
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo


This superb fusion of zoo and entertainment park ensures that kids and adults alike learn a lot and have fun along the way.

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has been a popular San Jose attraction since 1961. Although recently renovated, the park's purpose has always been to make learning about animals a joy for all. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is home to over 140 species of animal, and a host of attractions and side shows. Though not massive, the park will keep the family entertained for a good portion of the day.

Start out in the zoo area introduce the kids to a variety of friendly wildlife including wallabies, turtles, deer, lemurs and sheep. Where possible, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo embraces a hands-on environment, therefore it's possible to feed and pet many of the animals.

After lunch at the Picnic Basket Restaurant, head over to the Learning L.O.D.G.E. (Learn, Observe, Discover, Go Explore!) and Doc’s Critter Care. Both provide fascinating insights into what's involved when caring for animals. In the Animal Barn of the Double H Ranch Exhibit, get up close to domestic critters. Lemur Woods Exhibit, meanwhile, allows kids to copy the movements of lemurs on play equipment, from which actual lemurs can be seen in a nearby enclosure.

Watch the kids have a whale of a time on rides including the Granny Bugs, Danny the Dragon, the Mini Putt car ride, and Pacific Fruit Express Roller Coaster. The newly-restored Crooked House always proves a favourite. Adults will want to see Entry Plaza, a bronze menagerie of animals created by artist Tom Otternes. A visit to the enchanting puppet theatre, followed by a splurge at the Explore and More Retail Shop wraps up your day at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo nicely.

Park opening hours vary depending on season. Consult the website before you visit. The entrance fee is mid-range. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is located in Kelly Park, close to central San Jose.

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Things to do near Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in San Jose, California, offers a delightful combination of charming zoo exhibits, exciting amusement rides, and various outdoor activities such as sports, birdwatching, and biking. Visitors can enjoy easy access to nearby attractions, ensuring a memorable experience filled with fun and discovery for all ages.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is the San Jose Flea Market, located 4.8km away, offering a vibrant mix of local goods. Santana Row Shopping Center, 8.0km away, provides a lively atmosphere with entertainment and dining options. If you're up for a drive, visit the Apple Park Visitor Center, 12.9km away, for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Levi's Stadium, a mere 12.9km away, exudes energetic sports vibes, perfect for fans. Logitech Ice Rink, located 805m away, offers thrilling ice skating for adventure seekers. For a more relaxed experience, San Jose Municipal Golf, 6.4km away, invites you to enjoy outdoor serenity on the greens.

Adventure

Raging Waters, a thrilling waterpark located 4.8km from Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, offers exhilarating rides and family-friendly fun. For a dose of adventure, visit Santa Clara Paintball, situated 3.2km away, where you can engage in exciting paintball battles amidst a vibrant atmosphere.

Explore the scenic Coyote Creek Parkway Path, located 6.4km from Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, perfect for hiking enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in a picturesque setting.

Nightlife

Enjoy a captivating evening at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, just 3.2km away, where culture and romance blend seamlessly. For adventure, visit Nor Cal Laser Tag, also 3.2km off, and immerse yourself in thrilling arcade fun. Finally, catch a film at Cinemark CinéArts Santana Row, 8.0km distant, for a delightful cinematic experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Within and around Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in San Jose, visitors can enjoy an array of attractions including urban parks, modern colleges, and entertainment arenas. These points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal location for a well-rounded vacation.

  • San Jose McEnery Convention Center: This vibrant venue, situated 3.2km from Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, is ideal for conferences and expos. You'll experience a professional atmosphere infused with the excitement of various events, making it a hub for business and networking.
  • SAP Center at San Jose: Located 3.2km away, this lively arena hosts an array of family-friendly entertainment, including concerts and sports events. It's a fantastic place to enjoy a thrilling atmosphere and create memorable experiences with loved ones.
  • CSU San Jose State University: Just 1.6km from Happy Hollow, this modern university boasts a bustling urban vibe. Explore its beautiful campus and engage with the dynamic student life that reflects the spirit of San Jose.

Best time to go to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

The best time to visit Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.0°F (13.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.0°F (16.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June66.9°F (19.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.7°F (21.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

To save on your visit to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, consider travelling from November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your stay for a Friday can also help reduce costs. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels and sort prices from lowest to highest for the best deals. Combining flights, hotel, and activities in a package can yield additional savings. Don't forget to check for special offers and deals to maximise your budget while exploring affordable public transport options to navigate around San Jose.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Happy Hollow Park and Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you envision. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could enjoy some savings by combining your hotel reservation at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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