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East Bay Vivarium
East Bay Vivarium
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1827-C 5th Street
Berkeley, CA 94710-1617
510-841-1400
Good-for-Kids Rating
BabiesToddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
East Bay Vivarium Description
Although technically a store, the East Bay Vivarium rivals the best nature museums for its collection of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles, and it's award-winning breeding program. Yes, those cute little spiny tail monitor lizards are for sale, but families are also welcome to visit just to see and learn about them, and animal-lovers visit in droves. Want to know what tortoises eat, which chameleons change color, or simply what a blue-tongue skink is? This is the place. The store also runs an education outreach program that brings the critters to schools, clubs, and museums throughout Northern California, and their educational materials and "care sheets" for the various animals are first-rate. And of course, if your child's dream is to go home with a Madagascar tree boa — well, that discussion is up to you. Be sure to check out our other Berkeley vacation ideas.
Boutique
Science & Nature Museum
Kid Tips
Babies: Since this is a retail store with a dedicated clientele, it's probably not the best place for babies unless confined to a stroller or snugglie. Lots of stuff to knock over or pull off racks.
School-Age Kids: This is going to be heaven for adventurous kids from toddlers to teens; the squeamish may simply peek through their fingers, but they'll still learn something.
Planning Notes
- Ask about the breeding program: Fall is hatching season and there's an ever-changing roster of new babies coming on the scene. Ask one of the knowledgeable staff members to guide you to the cages containing new arrivals.
Just the Facts
Hours: Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ; Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: Less than 1 hour
