Monterey Zoo & Vision Quest Safari Bed & Breakfast in Salinas, California
The Monterey Zoo is a hidden gem nestled in the Salinas area of Monterey County. While it provides the typical zoo experience, it is also home to Vision Quest Ranch where you can stay in a safari-inspired bungalow and enjoy a bed & breakfast experience.
Here is what to know to plan your vacation:
Location: 400 River Rd, Salinas, CA 93908
Room Types: The Vision Quest Ranch has eight bungalows that can sleep up to four guests. Your stay includes a continental breakfast delivered to your room in the morning.
What to know about the bungalows:
Each bungalow has electricity, hot water and a large spacious bathroom.
Bungalows do have heat but not A/C.
A TV with local channels is available in each bungalow. No wi-fi but solid cell service.
One day of zoo admission is included in your rate as well as opportunities to visit with the animals
Discounted rate for the interactive tours that are offered.
What to know about visiting the Monterey Zoo:
Open daily 10am-3pm with the exception of major holidays (Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas).
No need to reserve online, you can buy entry tickets upon arrival.
Adults are $37.75 (ages 15 & up) and Kids are $27.50 (ages 2-14). Under 2 are free. $8 stroller fee.
Free parking
Annual passes start at $390 for 2 named adults & 2 kids
Experiences available:
VIAP (Very Important Animal Person) Tour - this 3 hour tour will let you see the zoo from another perspective as you'll get four close encounters with some of the resident animals! We met a rhino, a lemur, a sloth and some reptiles on our tour. This concludes with a catered lunch with the zookeepers.
A Walk with the Rhinos - spend time getting up close with the Southern White Rhino as you take a leisurely walk around the 5 acre rhino habitat. Suitable for the whole family but strollers are not recommended.
Crunch Time - an exciting tour where you will learn more about the big cats that reside at the Monterey Zoo.