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Zoos

Living Amphibians Invertebrates and Reptiles

📍 Griffith Park, CA

4.7(442 Google reviews)👶All ages

Specialised exhibit within the LA Zoo showcasing reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates including alligators, with face painting and educational staff on-site. Leave strollers outside — they're not permitted in the exhibit.

Reptile and amphibian focusKnowledgeable staffAlligator exhibitEducational
★★★★★Featured review by James L Hebert

Overall, this LAIR trip was fantastic! The herpetological diversity of amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles is all on display and is undoubtedly worth gazing at. This exhibit, though crowded, was well organized; people were efficiently managed through its flow. The space is larger than one would think, with a vast display that kept both children and adults interested. My kids were overly excited, pointing out several different creatures in the place and learning many interesting facts from the information display boards. They were so knowledgeable, and the staff answered questions and shared information about the animals very quickly. Their passion for wildlife showed through and enriched the experience. If you do, just be prepared to leave your strollers outside and maybe dress lightly on hectic days, as things can get warm with all the excitement. Overall, it is an absolute must-see exhibit. Learn about the wonders of amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles!

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for families with kids aged 4 and up who are curious about reptiles and amphibians — the diversity of species and knowledgeable staff make it genuinely educational. Toddlers in strollers will need to be carried inside, so travel light. Plan visits on weekday mornings to avoid the worst of the crowds and heat.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Leave strollers at the entrance — they're not allowed inside the exhibit
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowding and heat buildup
🎟️Staff are knowledgeable and actively engage visitors with animal facts — ask questions
🚗Reggie the alligator is a standout — look for him near the back of the exhibit

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.7

442 Google reviews

Impressive species diversity45%
Knowledgeable and engaging staff30%
Gets crowded and warm15%
No stroller access inside10%
J

James L Hebert

a year ago

Overall, this LAIR trip was fantastic! The herpetological diversity of amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles is all on display and is undoubtedly worth gazing at. This exhibit, though crowded, was well organized; people were efficiently managed through its flow. The space is larger than one would think, with a vast display that kept both children and adults interested. My kids were overly excited, pointing out several different creatures in the place and learning many interesting facts from the information display boards. They were so knowledgeable, and the staff answered questions and shared information about the animals very quickly. Their passion for wildlife showed through and enriched the experience. If you do, just be prepared to leave your strollers outside and maybe dress lightly on hectic days, as things can get warm with all the excitement. Overall, it is an absolute must-see exhibit. Learn about the wonders of amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles!

J

Judy Margaret Chen

2 years ago

The Lair itself is bigger than I expected. There are a lot of exhibits of different types of amphibians & reptiles. The kids were super excited and you could hear their exclamation from a far. It was a cool exhibition area. I learned of new things about those reptiles.

S

Sandra C.

7 years ago

I love coming here. This particular visit was at night for la zoo lights and this was one of the only animals you can see that were open aide from the reindeer.it does get pretty stuffy with all the people and little kids that are running all over the place.

W

Webs Face Painting

2 months ago

Come get your face painted! Best face painters and animals are the best! Yummy snacks and don't forget to visit Reggie the alligator afterwhile crocodile....

Reviews from Google

Overview

LAIR (Living Amphibians Invertebrates and Reptiles) is a dedicated exhibit inside the LA Zoo with an extensive herpetological collection spanning alligators, frogs, snakes, lizards, and invertebrates. Staff provide educational commentary throughout. Face painting and snacks are available on-site. The space is larger than it appears from outside and gets crowded and warm during peak times and events like Zoo Lights. Strollers must be left at the entrance.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday10:00 – 17:00
Thursday10:00 – 17:00
Friday10:00 – 17:00
Saturday10:00 – 17:00
Sunday10:00 – 17:00

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