Family Guide to the Folsom Zoo and Folsom Valley Railway Train

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If you’re looking for an easy family outing near Sacramento that doesn’t require an entire day, the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary and the neighboring Folsom Valley Railway are a great combination. Together, they create one of the best family-friendly attractions in Folsom, offering rescued animals, a miniature train ride, shaded walking paths, and a park where kids can burn off energy.

Our family visited with young children, and it was just the right size. We never felt rushed, there were plenty of places to stop and look at the animals, and adding a train ride made the day feel extra special.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for another local adventure, here’s everything you need to know before visiting the Folsom Zoo.

Why Families Love the Folsom Zoo

Unlike a traditional zoo, the Folsom Zoo Sanctuary is home to rescued animals that could not survive in the wild. Every resident has a story. Some were injured, while others came from wildlife rehabilitation centers, private owners, or organizations that could no longer care for them.

That mission makes visiting feel different from a typical zoo experience. Kids can learn about wildlife conservation while seeing animals that have been given a second chance.

Because the zoo is relatively small, younger children won’t get overwhelmed by hours of walking. Most families spend between one and two hours exploring.

If you’re visiting with toddlers or preschoolers, this size is a huge advantage.

Where Is the Folsom Zoo?

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary is located inside Lions Park in historic Folsom.

Its location makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions, including:

  • Historic Folsom District
  • Lake Natoma
  • Johnny Cash Trail
  • Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
  • Restaurants and ice cream shops in Historic Folsom

Many families turn their zoo visit into a full day exploring Folsom.

Best Age for Visiting the Folsom Zoo

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary works especially well for:

  • Toddlers
  • Preschoolers
  • Elementary-aged children
  • Grandparents visiting with grandchildren

Older kids still enjoy the bears, wolves, train ride, and educational exhibits, although they may move through the zoo more quickly.

Hours and Admission

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary is open Thursday through Sunday year-round, with seasonal hours. From May 1 through September 30, the zoo is open 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with last admission at 2:30 p.m. From October 1 through April 30, hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with last admission at 3:30 p.m.

General admission is $10 per person for ages 2 and older, while children under age 2 are free. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance, and combination tickets are available if you plan to ride the Folsom Valley Railway.

Is the Folsom Zoo Stroller-Friendly?

Most pathways throughout the zoo are paved and stroller friendly.

Families visiting with young children will find navigating the exhibits relatively easy, although there are a few gentle hills throughout Lions Park.

Restrooms, benches, and shaded seating areas are available throughout the grounds.

Animals You’ll See at the Folsom Zoo

One of the highlights is meeting animals you may not expect to find at a smaller zoo.

Depending on the day of your visit, you may see:

  • Black bears
  • Mountain lions
  • Wolves
  • Bobcats
  • Coyotes
  • Deer
  • River otters
  • Foxes
  • Monkeys
  • Birds of prey
  • Owls
  • Turkeys
  • Turtles
  • Reptiles
  • Peacocks
  • Farm animals

Many exhibits include signs explaining each animal’s rescue story, helping children understand why these animals now live at the sanctuary.

Instead of simply observing wildlife, families leave learning about conservation and responsible animal care.

Peacocks Everywhere!

My son’s favorite part of the Folsom Zoo is definitely all the peacocks roaming around everywhere. You’ll see them walking along the paths, up on the roofs and even outside the zoo on the public grass areas.

Don’t Miss the Bears

For many visitors, the black bears are the stars of the zoo.

Watching them splash in the water, climb, play, or nap is always entertaining. Since bears tend to be more active during cooler parts of the day, visiting in the morning often provides the best chance to see them moving around.

Kids can easily spend several minutes just watching the bears.

Meet Native California Wildlife

One thing that makes the Folsom Zoo unique is its emphasis on animals native to California.

Instead of focusing on exotic animals from around the world, children can learn about wildlife they may actually encounter while hiking, camping, or visiting California’s parks.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to talk about respecting wildlife and protecting natural habitats.

Folsom Valley Railway

One of the biggest reasons families pair the zoo with Lions Park is the Folsom Valley Railway. Located right next to the zoo entrance, this miniature train has become a tradition for many local families. Kids love climbing aboard before or after exploring the zoo.

The train winds through the park on a scenic ride filled with trees, bridges, tunnels, and fun railroad scenery. The ride lasts around 10 minutes, making it exciting enough for children without feeling too long for younger riders.

Train rides are $5 per person, and tickets are sold separately from zoo admission and can be purchased onsite directly from the Folsom Valley Railway ticket booth.

For many kids, the train ride becomes their favorite part of the day.

Purchase a Combination Ticket

If you’re planning to ride the train, purchasing a combination zoo and train ticket is usually the best value. It allows families to enjoy both attractions while saving money compared to purchasing separate admissions. Check the latest pricing before your visit since ticket options occasionally change throughout the year.

Lions Park Playground

After visiting the animals and riding the train, don’t leave just yet. Lions Park has a large playground that’s perfect for younger children.

Expect:

  • Multiple climbing structures
  • Swings
  • Slides
  • Shaded seating
  • Picnic tables
  • Large grassy areas

Many families bring a picnic lunch and spend several hours here.

Plan Time for a Picnic

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the Folsom Zoo is that you don’t have to rush. Pack sandwiches, snacks, or lunch and enjoy one of the shaded picnic areas inside Lions Park. This helps keep the outing affordable while giving kids time to relax before heading home.

Best Time to Visit the Folsom Zoo

The best seasons are:

Spring

Comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and active animals make spring one of the most popular times to visit.

Fall

Cooler weather makes walking pleasant, and many animals are more active.

Winter

Northern California winters are generally mild enough for comfortable zoo visits, especially on sunny afternoons.

Summer

Summer afternoons can become very hot in Folsom.

For the most comfortable experience:

  • Arrive shortly after opening.
  • Bring refillable water bottles.
  • Wear sunscreen and hats.
  • Take breaks in shaded areas.
  • Ride the train before temperatures climb.

Helpful Tips Before You Go

A little planning can make your visit even smoother.

  • Visit early in the day for cooler temperatures.
  • Ride the train before lines get longer.
  • Bring refillable water bottles.
  • Pack sunscreen during warmer months.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Allow two to three hours if you plan to visit the zoo, ride the train, and enjoy the playground.
  • Bring a camera since there are plenty of great photo opportunities.
  • Let kids read the rescue stories posted throughout the zoo.

Seasonal Events

Throughout the year, the zoo hosts several family-friendly events that bring returning visitors back again and again.

Popular seasonal activities may include:

  • Holiday celebrations
  • Educational animal programs
  • Community events
  • Special train rides
  • Family activity days

These events often sell quickly, so it’s worth checking the zoo’s calendar before planning your visit.

Other Things to Do Nearby

If you’re making the drive from Sacramento, consider adding another nearby attraction to your itinerary.

Popular choices include:

Together, these attractions make Folsom an easy destination for a full day of family fun.

Is the Folsom Zoo Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary offers something many larger zoos cannot. It provides an up close, educational experience centered around rescued animals in a setting that feels relaxed and manageable for families with young children.

When you add a ride on the Folsom Valley Railway, time at the playground, and lunch in Lions Park, it’s easy to fill several enjoyable hours without spending a fortune.

For Sacramento-area families looking for an affordable day trip, the Folsom Zoo and Train remain one of the area’s best hidden gems. Whether it’s your child’s first zoo visit or a tradition your family enjoys every year, it’s a destination that’s easy to recommend.

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