Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Happy Hollow Park is a peaceful, creative, and safe place for children of all ages - with the main focus on "little ones" between the ages of 2-10. There are creative play areas, children's rides, Puppet Shows, special events, and birthday areas.

Our Zoo is an AZA-Accredited Institution that participates in conservation and propagation of rare and endangered species - while at the same time offering children (and adults) the opportunity to see wondrous animals such as the Ruffed Lemur and Jaguar.

The Zoo also provides hands-on experience with many animals along with the education that's necessary to secure the future of endangered species. There's also an Animal Contact Area featuring Alpacas, Goats, Guinea Pigs, and Miniature Horses.

The Park

In 1956, the San Jose Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) wanted to start a project for the children in the community. This was known as Project X. Project X became a reality when the City of San José acquired the late Mrs. Kelley's estate through her Will, which stated that a portion of the Kelley land (now Kelley Park) be designated for children. Entering into a joint agreement, the City of San José provided park development, maintenance, and staffing. The Jaycees, through fundraising efforts, acquired the funds to build unique exhibits in the Park. A contest was held to name the Park - and the winning name was "Happy Hollow Children's Park".

The Jaycees and interested citizens formed a non-profit support organization called Happy Hollow Corporation. This organization was established to support the growth and further development of Happy Hollow through financial and volunteer efforts. Thousands of hours of dedicated work and volunteer time allowed the gates of this fantasy land to open on March 27, 1961.

When at last Happy Hollow opened, families enjoyed the Puppet Theater, Danny the Dragon and Mini Putts rides, the Small Merry-Go-Round, and play areas.

Happy Hollow Children's Park celebrated its grand opening on March 27, 1961 - a wonderland of FUN for the young and "young at heart." Situated in Kelley Park (at the corner of Senter Road and Keyes in San Jose), this children's theme park can bring a child's fantasies to life. Within the 12-acre Park and Zoo there are many unique Play Areas, a Puppet and Marionette Theater, Rides, Animal Contact Area, and 150 exotic, domestic, and endangered animals. The Zoo In 1967, exotic animals from a private animal collection were added in the area of Kelley Park adjacent to the East side of Happy Hollow Children's Park. This was the beginning of the Zoo.

Operated by a private contractor until 1973, when new management began the construction of a "new Zoo". Since the Zoo was adjacent to the Park, merging of the two areas seemed natural. In 1976, after some improvements and a new entrance, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo™ was born!

Today, the Zoo houses many different exotic and domestic animals, and is accredited by The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). Accreditation by AZA means that the Zoo represents the highest level of standards and professional staff in the Zoological and Aquarium industry, while at the same time participating in conservation efforts and educational programs. Our Zoo has been accredited since 1993.

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo™ is always trying to improve the Guest Experience and facility, and expand our services. Educational programs, events, and the Membership Program have been developed and expanded through the efforts and partnership with the City of San José, Happy Hollow Corporation, volunteer organizations, and docents.

Today, over 360,000 visitors enjoy unique rides like Danny the Dragon, play areas, Puppet Shows, and a wondrous array of domestic and exotic animals in a close-contact, interactive, and fun environment.