Interactive Animal Encounters and Animal Education for Kids
As San Diego County continues to reopen, we will be holding modified in-person programs. Contact us at education@animalcenter.org or (858) 756-4117 x 318 to learn more. We look forward to providing you with an
enriching experience while keeping your safety as our top priority!
Create new memories during customizable animal encounters at Helen Woodward Animal Center! This animal education opportunity is a perfect activity for any animal lover and works well with playgroups, youth groups, 4H groups, home school groups and families. You will not only get hands-on animal interactions but will also gain a better understanding of our furred, feathered and scaled friends.
To book your interactive animal encounters in San Diego, call 858-756-4117 ext. 318 or email education@animalcenter.org. We have multiple times available during the week or on weekends for all of our animal encounters.


Customize Your Encounter!
1. Select your level of adventure
2. Pick your quest for discovery
3. Choose your animals and activity
1. Level of Adventure (age ranges are guidelines)
Beginner
Toddlers and Preschoolers |
60 minutes | $11.25 per child | 3 animals
1 activity |
Skilled
Kindergarten – 5th grade |
90 minutes | $14.25 per child | 4 animals
1 activity |
Master
6th grade and beyond |
120 minutes | $17.25 per child | 6 animals
1 activity |
Adults are admitted free for the purpose of supervising children. The chaperone to child ratio is 1:5. Extra adults are $5 each.
2. Quest for Discovery (lesson theme)
3. Animal Encounters and Activities
Tours of Adoptions can only be given during their hours of operation. M-F: 12 – 6 pm, Saturday: 10 am – 6pm, Sunday 11 am – 6pm
Animal education and interaction is dependent upon animal health and safety. Must be at least 5-years-old to pet reptiles.
* denotes animals that cannot be pet, other interactions may be possible depending on species
NOTE: If you are interested in a combination of animals & activities other than the one listed for your level of adventure, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
All animal encounters require a $75 non-refundable deposit when booking your appointment. The total cost, minus the deposit already paid, will be settled at the completion of the adventure based on participant count.
If you have questions please give us a call at 858-756-4117 ext. 318 or email education@animalcenter.org.