Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo: A World of Discovery for Young Minds

Explore science and nature at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, a hands-on destination for kids with interactive exhibits, live animals, and engaging programs in a welcoming environment.

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Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

The Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo (JMZ) is a captivating destination for children aged birth to nine, and their caregivers. Nestled in Rinconada Park, this unique institution blends a hands-on science museum with an intimate zoo experience. The JMZ sparks curiosity and fosters a love for science and nature through interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and engaging programs. From exploring the wonders of physics to observing animals in naturalistic habitats, the JMZ offers a stimulating and educational experience for young learners. The museum's exhibits are designed to be fully accessible, ensuring that children of all abilities can participate and discover the wonders of the world around them. With its focus on early childhood education and its commitment to accessibility, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is a treasured community resource and a must-visit destination for families in the Bay Area.

A brief summary to Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

1451 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, Community Center, California, 94301, US
+1650-329-2111
Visit website

Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit during weekday afternoons for lower admission prices and fewer crowds.
Check the JMZ website for special events and programs, such as animal feedings and science demonstrations.
Take advantage of the free parking available in the lot between Hopkins Street and Middlefield Road.
Consider becoming a member for unlimited admission and discounts on programs.
Explore Rinconada Park, where the JMZ is located, for additional recreational opportunities.

Getting There

Walking

From the Palo Alto Transit Center (Caltrain and bus hub), the JMZ is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head south on Middlefield Road. The Museum & Zoo will be located on your left just after Melville Ave. The route is mostly flat and straightforward, making it a pleasant walk through a residential area.
Public Transport

The VTA #21 bus stops directly in front of the JMZ at the Melville Road stop. From the Palo Alto Transit Center, take the #21 bus towards East Palo Alto. The ride is approximately 10 minutes. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50.
Driving

From Highway 101, take the Embarcadero Road West exit. Continue down Embarcadero Road and turn right on Middlefield Road. The Museum & Zoo will be located on your right. Free parking is available in the lot between Hopkins Street and Middlefield Road. Limited on-street parking is also available on Middlefield Road.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from the Palo Alto Transit Center to the JMZ will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $10-$15. There is a designated taxi and ride service drop-off area in front of the entrance.

Discover more about Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

The Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo (JMZ) is more than just a museum and zoo; it's a vibrant learning environment where children can explore, discover, and connect with the world around them. Founded in 1934, the JMZ has a long history of serving the community and fostering a love of science and nature in young children. Originally located in the basement of a local elementary school, it was the first children's museum west of the Mississippi. In 2021, the JMZ reopened after an extensive renovation and expansion, nearly doubling in size. The rebuilt facility features state-of-the-art exhibits, improved animal enclosures, and enhanced accessibility for visitors of all abilities. The JMZ is located in Rinconada Park, offering a beautiful setting for exploration and discovery. The park itself provides additional recreational opportunities, making it a perfect destination for a family outing. The JMZ is divided into two main areas: the science museum and the zoo. The science museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that explore natural phenomena such as gravity, motion, magnetism, and electricity. Children can experiment with simple machines, build their own ball tracks, and explore the properties of light and sound. The museum also has a dedicated area for babies and toddlers, providing a safe and stimulating environment for the youngest visitors. The zoo is home to over 50 species of animals, including flamingos, meerkats, raccoons, birds, and reptiles. The zoo's exhibits are designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats, providing visitors with a glimpse into their lives in the wild. The zoo also offers a variety of animal encounter programs, where children can meet zookeepers and learn about the animals in their care. One of the most popular exhibits is the aviary, where birds roam freely among the visitors. The JMZ is committed to providing accessible experiences for all visitors. The museum's exhibits are designed to be wheelchair accessible, and the zoo has tactile exhibits and audio descriptions for visitors with visual impairments. The JMZ also offers programs for children with disabilities, such as Super Family Sundays, which provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for families to enjoy the museum and zoo together. One of the highlights is the California Dinosaur Garden, featuring life-size dinosaur sculptures, prehistoric plants, and interactive exhibits, including a fossil dig. This exhibit allows children to learn about paleontology, evolution, and extinction in an engaging and hands-on way. Kids can even climb on an Ankylosaur sculpture for a unique photo opportunity. The JMZ also offers a variety of educational programs for schools and community groups. These programs are designed to complement the museum's exhibits and provide children with a deeper understanding of science and nature. The JMZ's educators also work with local schools to provide science outreach programs, bringing hands-on science experiences to students in the classroom. The Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is a beloved community resource that provides children with a unique opportunity to learn about science and nature in a fun and engaging way. With its interactive exhibits, diverse animal collection, and commitment to accessibility, the JMZ is a must-visit destination for families in the Bay Area. The JMZ's exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Children can crawl through tunnels, climb on structures, and experiment with different materials. The museum's staff is also on hand to answer questions and provide guidance, ensuring that visitors have a positive and educational experience. The JMZ is constantly evolving, with new exhibits and programs being added regularly. The museum is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research in science and education, ensuring that its exhibits are both accurate and engaging. The JMZ also works closely with the community to identify and address local needs, ensuring that it remains a relevant and valuable resource for families in the Bay Area. The Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo is not just a place to visit; it's a place to learn, grow, and connect with the world around us. It's a place where children can discover their passions, develop their skills, and become lifelong learners. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, the JMZ is sure to provide a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lucie Stern Community Center

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Norris House

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Pedro de Lemos House

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Downtown Palo Alto Farmers' Market

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Telephone Co. Building (Built 1928)

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The Cardinal Hotel

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Bell's Books

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Landmark's Aquarius Theatre

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Hostess House

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Angel of Grief

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Pink Bridge

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El Palo Alto Tree - Namesake Tree of City of Palo Alto

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El Palo Alto Tree - Namesake Tree of City of Palo Alto

Chabad Palo Alto

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California Historical Landmark No. 2

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Stone River by Andy Goldsworthy

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Unmissable attractions to see

Rinconada Cultural Park

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Theophilus Allen House

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The Magic Forest

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Discover a peaceful redwood grove in Palo Alto's Rinconada Park, a tribute to a teacher's love for storytelling and nature.

Palo Alto Art Center

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Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden

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Birthplace of Silicon Valley

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Heritage Park

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The Museum of American Heritage

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Main Quad

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Masterworks Fine Art Gallery

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The Rose & Crown

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The Wine Room

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Lytton Plaza

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Jerry Bowden Park

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Facebook’s First Office Plaque

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

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Vino Locale

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Scotty's Bar & Grill

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The Patio @ Rudy's

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Moods. Wine Bar

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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar

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Cocktailbar Santana

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Fred's Place

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Freewheel Brewing Company

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O'Malley's Sports Pub

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Chili's Grill & Bar

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Atherton Club San Luis

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kicks Sports and Grill

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo: A World of Discovery for Young Minds

A brief summary to Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lucie Stern Community Center

Norris House

Pedro de Lemos House

Downtown Palo Alto Farmers' Market

Telephone Co. Building (Built 1928)

The Cardinal Hotel

Bell's Books

Landmark's Aquarius Theatre

Hostess House

Angel of Grief

Pink Bridge

El Palo Alto Tree - Namesake Tree of City of Palo Alto

Chabad Palo Alto

California Historical Landmark No. 2

Stone River by Andy Goldsworthy

Unmissable attractions to see

Rinconada Cultural Park

Theophilus Allen House

The Magic Forest

Palo Alto Art Center

Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden

Birthplace of Silicon Valley

Heritage Park

The Museum of American Heritage

Main Quad

Masterworks Fine Art Gallery

The Rose & Crown

The Wine Room

Lytton Plaza

Jerry Bowden Park

Facebook’s First Office Plaque

Essential places to dine

Thyme

TAVERNA

Il Fornaio

Telefèric Barcelona Palo Alto

Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery

Saint Michael's Alley

Coconuts Caribbean Restaurant & Bar

Ethel's Fancy

Zola + BarZola

Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant

Rooh

Son & Garden

Reposado

YAYOI Palo Alto

Osteria Toscana

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cassis

Hudson Grace

G V Palo Alto

Diptyque Town and Country

Five Ten Gifts

Cielo

Town & Country Village

Dolma Tibetan Handicraft

EVEREVE

The RealReal

Romi Boutique

Blue Bin Vintage Palo Alto

Ruti | Palo Alto

Good Vibrations Palo Alto

United Nations Association Gift Shop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

President's Terrace

SliderBar Restaurant