Facility

Early Explorers Preschool is located on the grounds of the beautiful Santa Barbara Zoo. School takes place exclusively outdoors (except during inclement weather), and students can explore their large play area in addition to discovering different areas of the Zoo. Early Explorers also enjoy gardening and digging in the dirt.

We provide a safe and loving environment where the children can develop a sense of trust and appreciation of their world. Our program provides opportunities for group time, free play, and individual attention. Our well-balanced curriculum is designed to support learning and meet the unique needs of each child in the program.

Early Explorers Preschool at the Santa Barbara Zoo is a nonprofit school and is the only licensed outdoor preschool in the state of California. Facility #426216198.

Support Early Explorers
As an organization committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, we are dedicated to ensuring the Zoo’s education programs are accessible to all families in the community.

Through generous grants and private donations, we are able to offer partial tuition scholarships to Early Explorers Preschool. Our partners at the Police Activities League assist in identifying and allocating scholarships to families in Santa Barbara County that need them most.

To make a gift or learn more about the scholarship program, contact the Santa Barbara Zoo by email or phone: (805) 962-5339.