L.A. Zoo Ticket Prices Set to Increase as City Faces Fiscal Challenges

The Los Angeles City Council’s Arts, Parks, and Libraries Committee has voted to raise ticket prices at the Los Angeles Zoo by $2 for all ticket types. If approved by the full City Council, adult general admission will increase to $29, children’s tickets will cost $24, and seniors will pay $26. This proposed increase follows another hike from the previous year when the zoo raised prices by $5 each ticket to help close the city’s budget gap. The last ticket price increase before these was in 2012, amounting to a $2 rise.

These changes come as the city anticipates including the higher ticket prices in the fiscal 2026-27 budget. The Los Angeles Zoo, which spans 133 acres in Griffith Park, is grappling with numerous challenges. Apart from financial difficulties, they include legal issues with their former fundraising partner, the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA). The city sued GLAZA in 2024, accusing it of withholding $50 million in endowment funds after their decades-long partnership ended. GLAZA’s attempt to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy was denied by a federal judge following the city attorney’s claim that it was meant to delay the lawsuit.

The zoo, home to 1,600 animals, is also contending with staffing and funding shortages, which have led to the relocation of animals like elephants Billy and Tina to the Tulsa Zoo. The elephants’ previous conditions led to longstanding animal advocate complaints. In addition, several exhibits require significant renovations, leading to additional closures.

The facility is facing challenges to its national accreditation after federal regulators pointed out rust, peeling paint, and critical shortages in resources. With the void left by GLAZA, an L.A. County grand jury report has recommended that the city explore new private-public partnerships to maintain the zoo’s operations. Despite the financial obstacles and potential ticket price increases, the L.A. Zoo remains a more affordable option compared to places like the San Diego Zoo, where admission costs $78 for adults.