CuriOdyssey — Zoo in San Mateo

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CuriOdyssey and its collection

CuriOdyssey, opened in 1954, is a zoo in San Mateo, United States.

It sits within the Coyote Point Recreation Area, overlooking the bay. Close to 100 rescued animals are kept, mostly state natives that cannot be released. It takes part in Museums for All, which gives qualifying families free entry and cheaper membership.

History

It dates from 1954, founded as the San Mateo County Junior Museum with its first home in a Quonset hut. It has also been known as the Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education and as the Coyote Point Museum.

Exhibits

More than 50 hands-on science exhibits are aimed at younger visitors, covering gravity, light, perception and lift.

Things to do

Things to do include Whooosh! Physics-in-Action Playground, First Friday Nights, Sensory Sundays and Daily Animal Presentations.

Conservation and approach

Practical science programmes are offered to school and group educators as well as in public sessions. A mobile museum and animal ambassadors travel to parks, schools and other venues.

What the venue says

While CuriOdyssey does not maintain a full-time everyday restaurant on-site, they host special events like "First Friday Nights" where local food trucks are brought in with bites and treats.
The vehicle entrance fee for parking in Coyote Point Recreation Area is $6 per car. There is an electronic pay station that accepts credit cards and cash (does not give change).
If your vehicle displays a Disabled Person Parking Placard or Plate, you may park in the marked accessible parking places closest to the CuriOdyssey entrance.
"Vehicle entry fees are waived for park visitors whose vehicles display a handicap placard or license plate."
Sensory Sundays are thoughtfully designed for neurodivergent guests and individuals with sensory sensitivities who may find traditional museum settings overwhelming.
Located in CuriOdyssey’s gardens, the playground incorporates universal design principles to ensure fun for all ages and abilities.