Fri. Aug 15th, 2025

The MainPlace Mall is teaming up for a special day at the Santa Ana Zoo this Sunday, August 17, to include a curated selection of locally owned retailers for a MainPlace Market at the Zoo!

Browse unique, handcrafted goods and specialty items from talented local makers while enjoying the sights, sounds, and animals of the Santa Ana Zoo. From artisanal treats to creative crafts, there’s something for everyone.

Best of all—it’s happening on Free Residents Day, which means all Santa Ana residents get free admission to the zoo (valid ID or proof of residency required).

Come shop, explore, and support local businesses in a fun, family-friendly setting.

Event Highlights:

  • Locally owned and operated retailers
  • One-of-a-kind handmade goods
  • Family-friendly atmosphere inside the Santa Ana Zoo

Resident’s Day Bonus: All Santa Ana residents receive FREE admission to the Zoo with a valid ID.

Here are the main features of the Santa Ana Zoo:

Animal Exhibits:

  • Known for having at least 50 monkeys at all times.
  • Amazon’s Edge: features howler monkeys, swans, and other rainforest animals.
  • Aviary with exotic birds.
  • Reptiles and amphibians like dart frogs and snakes.

Rides and Attractions:

  • Conservation Carousel with endangered animal figures.
  • Zoofari Express Train: a short ride through zoo habitats.
  • 50 Monkeys Ferris Wheel: themed around endangered monkeys.

Play and Learning Areas:

  • Rainforest Adventure Maze: interactive and educational.
  • Exploration Outpost: hands-on learning about Amazon wildlife.
  • Safari Playground: play structures for kids of different ages.

Educational Programs:

  • Children’s Zoo: farm animals and interactive learning.
  • Amphitheater: wildlife and conservation presentations.

Conservation Focus:

  • Breeding programs for endangered species.
  • Partnerships with conservation organizations.

By Art Pedroza

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.