Dear San Francisco

Located in the heart of the sun-drenched city, Phoenix Zoo is a Arizona animal extravaganza for all the family. Prepare to be awestruck as you encounter an array of majestic creatures from all corners of the globe. From towering giraffes nibbling on leaves to cheeky monkeys swinging from the trees, there's no shortage of furry, feathery, and scaly friends to meet. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant habitats and discover exotic wonders like slithering snakes, playful penguins, and colorful tropical birds. And let's not forget about the kings and queens of the animal kingdom – the magnificent lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) – who are always ready to put on a show of strength and beauty. But it's not just about the animals at the Phoenix Zoo; it's an experience like no other. As you explore, you'll be surrounded by lush gardens, captivating exhibits, and interactive displays that will make you feel like you've stepped into a wild and whimsical wonderland.

Aquarium of the Bay is located at San Francisco's popular PIER 39. Its focus, as the name suggests, is local aquatic animals from the San Francisco Bay (and nearby waterways). There are three main exhibit areas, each with a specific point of focus. The most thrilling is the underwater tunnel, though the touch pools and naturalist talks also help make this an exciting and interactive way to get to know the bay.

The Snøhetta expansion (completed in 2016) doubled the amount of exhibition space at the SFMOMA. The seven-story structure also expanded the gallery areas and outdoor public spaces, giving a big injection of destination architecture to San Francisco's South of Market area. The SFMOMA's permanent collection is a whopping 33,000 works, and there are always temporary exhibitions as well. When in San Francisco's SoMa make time for the SFMOMA.