–As San Luis Obispo County moves back to the Red Tier of COVID-19-related restrictions, the staff of the Charles Paddock Zoo is pleased and excited to be able to reopen to the public, live and in-person and to have the zoo return to its normal operating hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

In mid-December, the zoo had to close the facility to the public due to the Regional Stay-At-Home order but continued to educate and entertain visitors virtually, via educational videos and virtual programs including field trips, zoo guests, and zoo parties. These types of programs will remain available for those who are more comfortable visiting the zoo virtually. For those who would like to visit in person, zoo guests are asked to remember that face coverings are required and plenty of safe social distancing will be easily available, since the zoo is outdoors.

Two new additions to the zoo: baby red pandas

Located just off of Highway 41 within the beautiful Atascadero Lake Park in Atascadero, the Charles Paddock Zoo is the only zoo on the Central Coast. With over one hundred animals, the zoo aims to provide a natural habitat for its residents and provide activities for both children and adults – story hour, workshops and classes.

The Charles Paddock Zoo is located next to Atascadero Lake Park at Highway 41/ Morro Road and one mile west of Highway 101. The zoo is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To learn more about the Charles Paddock Zoo, visit the website at charlespaddockzoo.org or call (805) 461-5080.

Brew at the Zoo will be virtual again this year

The Charles Paddock Zoo is gearing up for another fun-filled, virtual beer festival for this year’s Brew at the Zoo at Home Fest, to be held on Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now, while supplies last, and the last day to purchase tickets is Wednesday, April 14.

Attendees will enjoy behind-the-scenes animal tours with knowledgeable and experienced zookeepers, learning about each of the 14 artisan beverages included in the “Brew Masters” pack, and grooving to fun tunes from local bands, like Bear Market Riot.

Regular tickets are $65 each plus a small ticket service charge, which includes shipping/delivery. VIP tickets are $90 each plus a small ticket service fee, and includes shipping/delivery, plus a commemorative Brew at the Zoo T-shirt, and two general admission tickets to the zoo to use for your next visit. Tickets are available at VisitAtascadero.com/Brew-at-the-Zoo.