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Park & Zoo
Happy Hollow is a 16- acre park and zoo, located on the north end of Kelley Park in San José. Among majestic redwood, oak and pine trees, the landscaping at Happy Hollow features drought- tolerant and pollinator friendly plants. The iconic California greenery at Happy Hollow has beckoned people outside to play since 1961.
History of Happy Hollow
Dining & Catering
Picnic Basket focuses on quality, quick-service and environmentally friendly choices. All Happy Hollow food options are locally and sustainably sourced and antibiotic-free. Double-H Catering delivers premier environmentally friendly catering options to suit the style and theme of your event.
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Entertainment
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is home to one of the longest running puppet theaters in California. The Crooked Meadow entertainment stage occasionally features special animal shows, magic acts, musicians and more.
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Nature Play
Nature - themed play areas and interactives help guests of all ages develop physical fitness, muscle coordination, balance and confidence. For those with small children, there is no greater joy than watching your child run, jump and climb as they develop these important motor skills.
Backyard Habitat
The perfect place to sit under a tree and learn about important pollinators and other critters that can be found right in your own backyard. This area is also available for private rentals.
Crooked House
Letting your imagination run wild inside this whimsical topsy- turvy cottage will make you feel as though you have stepped into a fantasy world.
Dino Dig
Little ones can excavate like a real paleontologist and uncover a mysterious fossil hidden beneath the sand.
Leaping Lemur Trail
Observe the striking beauty of endangered lemurs before visiting this play zone where children can leap, hop and jump like a lemur.
Redwood Lookout
Adventurous kids can climb to the treetops, enjoy the view from the lookout towers, then whiz down the tallest slides in the park.
Miner’s Maze
This below- ground maze is a perfect place for little ones to scamper and “hide.”
Story Stations
Happy Hollow's story stations include a variety of animal and nature themed books located near benches throughout the park and zoo. This provides places for families to learn while they relax and enjoy books donated by the San José Public Library. Guests are encouraged to return the books to the stations once they are finished to allow other families to enjoy.
Zoo
Happy Hollow has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for over 25 years — a testimony of our commitment to the advancement of zoos, aquariums, science and nature centers in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation.
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Rides
Families that ride together laugh together! Happy Hollow is home to a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions to keep the glee going all day long. The iconic Danny the Dragon train has delighted visitors since 1961, and the Keep-Around Carousel is a favorite fan photo spot!
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Plan an unforgettable experience at San Jose’s family-friendly park and zoo.
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