Become a Member
Already a member? Keep the perks going for another year!
Member Perks
Becoming a member at The Living Desert not only offers an excellent value and a host of benefits, it also supports the Zoo’s world-class animal care and 80+ conservation initiatives in deserts here and around the world!
Discover the wild perks of becoming a member today!
Unlimited daytime admission for 12 full months
NEW! Exclusive discounts at 30+ local businesses, including dining, shopping, lodging, and attractions!
Access to member-only programs and events + discounts on Zoo programs and activities
10% discount at the cafes, restaurants, and the Appel Gift Shop
Members-only printed subscription to
Foxpaws magazine
(3 issues/year)
Reciprocity program with more than 150 partner zoos, aquariums, gardens and arboretums
Members Save Around the Valley!
Members at The Living Desert enjoy exclusive discounts at more than 30 attractions and businesses around the Coachella Valley!
Summer Memberships
All the fun, at half the price!
Enjoy all of the benefits of membership with our LIMITED-TIME summer memberships.
Valid June 1 – September 30
Individual Summer
Dual Summer
Family Summer
Family Plus Summer
*All memberships require adults to be named individuals and a valid photo ID is required for admittance.
Individual and Family Memberships
Family Plus Membership
$349.95
Three designated adults and four designated children under 18*All memberships require adults to be named individuals and a valid photo ID is required for admittance.
Guardian Society Memberships
Membership Perks
Sustainers
$750
Tax Deductible Amount: $390
4 One-time use guest passes (valid for one year)
1 Invitation to a Guardian Society Open House Event with Zoo team for 2 guests
Private One-Hour Annual “What’s New at the Zoo” Tour for 2 guests
Curators
$1,000
Tax Deductible Amount: $570
6 One-time use guest passes (valid for one year)
1 Invitation to a Guardian Society Open House Event with Zoo team for 2 guests
Private One-Hour Annual “What’s New at the Zoo” Tour for 6 guests
Directors
$2,500
Tax Deductible Amount: $2,070
6 One-time use guest passes (valid for one year)
Invitation to All Guardian Society Open House Events with Zoo team for two guests
Invitations to 2 exclusive donor events for 2 adult guests
Private One-Hour Annual “What’s New at the Zoo” Tour with a Keep Connection
President’s Circle
$5,000
Tax Deductible Amount: $4,460
8 One-time use guest passes (valid for one year)
Invitation to All Guardian Society Open House Events with Zoo team for two guests
Invitations to 2 exclusive donor events for 2 adult guests
Private One-Hour Annual “What’s New at the Zoo” Tour with an Animal Encounter
Invitation to a Private Event with a Director or Curator
Chairman’s Circle
$10,000
Tax Deductible Amount: $9,460
8 One-time use guest passes (valid for one year)
Invitation to All Guardian Society Open House Events with Zoo team for two guests
Invitations to 2 exclusive donor events for 2 adult guests
Private One-Hour Annual “What’s New at the Zoo” Tour with an Animal Encounter
Invitation to a Private Event with the President/CEO
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase a membership?
There are several ways to purchase a membership:
- For the fastest service, join online now!
- On your next visit to The Living Desert, stop by the Guest Services office to join in person.
- Give us a call in the Membership office at (760) 346-5694.
How do I use my in-park membership discounts?
When you arrive at the park, proceed straight to the entrance and present your membership card and photo ID for Zoo admission. Throughout the park, you can show your membership card for discounts at various locations including the gift shop, giraffe feeding, Kookaburra Cafe, Churro Stop, Thorn Tree Grill, Safari Soft Serve, and Crash Cafe.
To activate your member discount on special event tickets, call (760) 346-5694, or, when booking online, select the “Member Tickets” option on the event page and enter your Membership ID number. For private tours, the tour request form will allow you to specify that you are a member so that you can receive your discount.
How do I use my community membership discounts?
Members at The Living Desert have access to exclusive discounts and benefits at 30+ organizations across the Coachella Valley. Click here for the full list of participating locations.
To redeem your benefits, simply present your membership card from The Living Desert and a Valid ID at participating locations.
Can I give my guest passes away, or do I need to be present with my guest?
Guest passes are automatically loaded onto your membership card and will be deducted as you bring guests. If you would like them printed to give away, we would be happy to assist you at the Guest Services office.
(Guest passes are only available at the Guardian Society membership level.)
When does my membership expire?
Your annual membership is valid for one year from the date of purchase, so you receive a full 12 months of Zoo and Garden fun!
What if my membership card is lost or stolen?
You can order a replacement card by contacting us at (760) 346‑5694 or [email protected]. You can also request a replacement card at the Guest Services office. Additional cards are subject to a $5 replacement fee.
What is the zoo reciprocity program? Can I use my membership for other zoos and aquariums?
Yes! For a list of over 150 zoos, aquariums, gardens, and arboretums that offer discounted or free admission to The Living Desert members, click here.
Can a friend or family member use my membership card?
No. Memberships are non-transferable and are valid only for the person (or persons) named on the card.
If the other named adult on my card is unable to come with me, may I bring a guest in their place?
No, but you may purchase a guest pass at a discounted rate.
Is my membership tax deductible?
A portion of your Guardian Society membership payment is tax-deductible, as allowed by law.
Please note this applies to Guardian Society members only.