Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Small zoo with an array of animals & rides, plus an education center, petting zoo & puppet theater.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is rated 4.5 / 5 from 5,455 Google reviews and sits about 4.9 km (61 min walk) from Berryessa/North San José station.
General overview
About Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a family-oriented zoo and amusement park in San Jose’s Kelley Park, featuring animal exhibits, children’s rides, play areas, educational programs, and seasonal entertainment. The information below is based on general knowledge and training data, not live verification; confirm current details at https://happyhollow.org/ before visiting.
- Family zoo with approximately 140 animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
- Children’s rides and attractions integrated into the zoo experience.
- Playgrounds, interactive exhibits, and educational programming.
- Located in Kelley Park near the Japanese Friendship Garden, History Park, and the San Jose Happy Hollow area.
- Designed especially for families with young children, though visitors of all ages are welcome.
Things to do here
Zoo animal exhibits
See a range of animals in themed habitats, with an emphasis on conservation, education, and close-up family viewing.
Children’s rides
Age- and height-appropriate rides are available within the park; operating schedules and ride availability may vary.
Play areas and interactive exhibits
Hands-on spaces and playground-style attractions provide opportunities for active play and discovery.
Educational programs
Keeper talks, animal encounters, demonstrations, and other learning activities may be offered seasonally or on selected days.
Puppet theater and seasonal entertainment
Happy Hollow has historically offered puppet shows and family entertainment, subject to the current event calendar.
Kelley Park visit
The zoo can be combined with nearby Kelley Park attractions, including History Park and the Japanese Friendship Garden, subject to their separate admission and schedules.
Allow extra time for parking, ticketing, strollers, and rides. Check the daily ride and animal-program schedule after arrival. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended.
Advance booking may not always be required for ordinary admission, but it is advisable to check online for timed entry, capacity rules, special events, and current operating days.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is about 4.9 km (~61 min walk) from Berryessa/North San José station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Safeway
Restaurants · 8 min walk
★ 4.4
Jackie's Place - North
Restaurants · 38 min walk
★ 4.6
Everest Cuisine-San Jose
Restaurants · 42 min walk
★ 4.7
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites San Jose Airport
Hotels · 47 min walk
★ 4.1
Emma Prusch Farm Park
Places to visit · 51 min walk
★ 4.6
The Tech Interactive
Places to visit · 54 min walk
★ 4.4
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo from Berryessa/North San José station?
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is about 4886 m (roughly 61 min walk) from Berryessa/North San José station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Happy Hollow Park & Zoo rated?
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo has a Google rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 5,455 reviews.
What's near Happy Hollow Park & Zoo?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Safeway, Jackie's Place - North, Everest Cuisine-San Jose.
Is Happy Hollow Park & Zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Happy Hollow Park & Zoo: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near Happy Hollow Park & Zoo?
Google lists these parking options near Happy Hollow Park & Zoo: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is Happy Hollow Park & Zoo good for children?
Yes — Google lists Happy Hollow Park & Zoo as good for children.
Is Happy Hollow suitable for toddlers and young children?
Yes. The park is particularly geared toward families with young children and combines animal exhibits, rides, playgrounds, and educational activities.
How long should we spend there?
Plan on roughly three to five hours. Families with young children may need more time for rides, breaks, and play areas.
Are all rides included with admission?
Many standard attractions have historically been included with admission, but ride availability, height requirements, and any separate charges can change. Check the current ticket information and ride schedule.
Can I bring a stroller?
Strollers are generally useful and appropriate for the park, although some rides and pathways may have restrictions. Confirm stroller rental and storage options if needed.
Is parking free?
Parking arrangements in Kelley Park may include a fee. Because rates and payment methods can change, verify current parking information before arrival.
Can I bring food?
Food-service availability and outside-food rules may vary. Check current park policies if you plan to bring a picnic, especially for dietary or allergy needs.
Are service animals allowed?
Service animals are generally addressed under applicable accessibility law, but animal-area restrictions may apply. Contact the park before visiting for guidance.
Does the zoo offer discounts?
Discounts may be available for seniors, young children, members, groups, or promotional periods. Current eligibility and prices should be checked on the official website.
Can the zoo close attractions because of weather?
Yes. Rides, animal presentations, and outdoor areas may close temporarily because of weather, maintenance, staffing, or animal welfare considerations.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.