The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has once again earned national acclaim, securing three top‑10 honors in the USA TODAY 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. According to the press release, the Zoo was recognized as No. 5 for Best Zoo Exhibit, No. 7 for Best Zoo Membership, and No. 9 for Best Zoo, marking “the seventh year of recognition for The Living Desert, which is the only California zoo ranked this year.”
This year’s awards arrive as Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley continue to grow as major travel destinations, driven by warm‑weather escapes, outdoor experiences, and more intentional, nature‑focused travel. The Living Desert stands out in that landscape by offering “an experience defined by its desert setting, where wildlife, landscape and walkable exploration come together in a way that reflects how people connect with nature today.”
Australian Adventures: A Top‑Five Exhibit
The Zoo’s Australian Adventures habitat earned the No. 5 spot for Best Zoo Exhibit. Spanning nearly an acre, the AZA‑accredited walk‑through experience immerses guests in the Australian outback, featuring the only breeding mob of yellow‑footed rock wallabies in any U.S. zoo. Climate‑controlled spaces, native plants, and close‑up encounters bring Australia to Southern California.
View the full list of Best Zoo Exhibit winners here.
A Nationally Recognized Membership Program
Ranked No. 7 for Best Zoo Membership, The Living Desert’s program offers unlimited daytime visits, exclusive member events, and guest passes, along with dining and gift shop discounts. These benefits make membership a meaningful way to support wildlife while enjoying year‑round experiences.
View the full list of Best Zoo Membership winners here.
A Top Zoo With Global Impact
The Zoo’s No. 9 ranking for Best Zoo highlights its expansive conservation work and growing animal population. Home to more than 600 animals across 130 desert‑adapted species, The Living Desert also supports 105 active conservation projects in 12 countries. Recent milestones include the birth of a critically endangered addra gazelle and the arrival of patas monkeys.
View the full list of Best Zoo winners here.
Since 2018, The Living Desert has earned repeated national recognition across multiple USA TODAY 10Best categories, reinforcing its long‑standing reputation for excellence in animal care, conservation, and guest experience.