Monterey Zoo,

400 River Rd, Salinas, CA 93908, United States

"Decent zoo. Don't plan your whole day there though they don't sell food or drinks. They have vending machines that will scam you. I wanted to purchase water bottles, but instead, I got Rockstar Energy drinks. Tried getting a refund but was told I had to call the vendors. According to them, it is a recurring problem that they are aware of, which tells me that the zoo has no intentions of fixing the issue. Monterey Zoo you need to immediately fix these vending machines so you don't inconvenience your customers. Update - reply to owner. I was told by your front desk employee between the hours of 2pm to 3pm that the zoo does not issue a refund, and I must contact the vendor to do so. I did contact the vendor and also left a message and did not receive any answer nor a call back. The front desk person knew exactly which vending machine it was that dispensed the wrong drink - so it is a recurring issue that has happened before. When your customers are dehydrated and can't purchase water because of a faulty machine that won't get fixed, it will ruin their experience. We paid over $200, I can expect the zoo to have working vending machines. I understand you have no control over them but they are on your property so you as the owner are responsible for them whether or not you own them. It's a scam if I press for water and is charged for Rockstars. I recommend replacing your vendors if they don't want to fix the recurring issue or at the least put up a sign for your customers. I have been inconvenienced by your zoo, it is not ridiculous to expect working vending machines. I did not ask for a full refund from the zoo, I'm only asking for a refund for the drinks. What's ridiculous is the known issue with your vendors that your zoo won't fix. I can only imagine how many customers lost money to that machine who did not bother to say anything about it because they rather not deal with another inconvenience."

"Wonderful zoo! Large enclosures that are kept clean, and animals are well cared for. When you sign up for the guided tour you’ll have a chance to be up close and personal with a few animals, and a tour of the rhino exhibit. We loved being able to pet the Rhino and Lynx."

"Fun little zoo just outside Monterey. Good selection of animals to gawk at, and there seems to be an emphasis on education and the animals' well being. I will say that the sun can be brutal, and there's not a lot of shade, so bring a hat."

"We took our grandsons to see the big cats and the rhinos. We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The staff was very professional and very caring of these endangered animals. We did not stay overnight."

"First time here was decent. First thing first is that they charge $8 for your own stroller. Doesn't make sense to me because I brought your own stroller. Different experience from other zoo. Another experience I don't like is one of the worker(lady with boy hair style) was rude. I see kids that are very excited to see animals and she yelled out from a distance for the kids to be quiet. Other that the zoo is beautiful. It's clean and there are many different animals."