L.A. Zoo Lights

L.A. Zoo Lights fills the Los Angeles Zoo with sculptural light displays after dark, and the current show leads guests through a world of plants and pollinators, with illuminated birds, butterflies, insects, flowers, marine creatures and Ice Age giants. Fan favorites return too: interactive elements, an artificial ice-skating rink, carousel rides and holiday photo-ops, including Santa on select days. Warm up with churros, s'mores and hot cocoa, while guests 21 and up can order beer, wine or spiked cocoa. Most visitors spend 60 to 90 minutes on the route.

Our take: If crowds and noise are hard for your family, look for the sensory-inclusive night on the zoo's calendar.