Children love animals.  Most are soft, furry and cute.  But what if they are cold and scaly or wet to the touch?  Most children will still find fascination with these animals.  Reptiles and amphibians are some of the world’s most interesting creatures.  They’re amazing to look at, with their various colors and unusual movements. Children especially love reptiles because they are smaller versions of dinosaurs.  And what child doesn’t love dinosaurs? 

There aren’t many places you can go to visit reptiles and amphibians in captivity.  Most zoos have an exotics exhibit, but these can vary in size and are often limited in variety.  People are generally most familiar with the snakes, lizards, and frogs that are out and about in nature.  Nothing is better than visiting an establishment that showcases exotics from around the world.  Many exotics, especially those from tropical areas, come in vibrant colors and crazy presentations.

What reptiles do for a developing child’s brain is that it unleashes curiosity and appreciation for nature, which in turn can shape not only childhood but also entire lives. For children, particularly those with an interest in the natural world, the East Bay Vivarium is a trove of wonderment waiting to be uncovered. This incredible exotic pet store is tucked away in the bustling urban landscape of Berkeley, California.  This pet store is a mecca for herpetology enthusiasts of all ages. 

The East Bay Vivarium is a store that exists for the sale of reptiles and amphibians, but it also serves as a zoo . It is filled with chameleons of amazing colors, lizards (large and small) from around the world, and many different types of turtles, frogs, and snakes.  It also houses tarantulas, scorpions and monitor lizards.  How cool is that?!  The creatures are showcased in meticulously crafted habitats that mirror their natural environments. Each enclosure is designed with the species' specific needs in mind, ensuring a life of health and enrichment.  The vivarium fosters education and conservation while providing an unforgettable experience for young adventurers.

Visiting the Vivarium

A visit to the East Bay Vivarium is always exciting.  The Vivarium is located at 1827 5^th Street in Berkeley.  It is open 11am-7pm on weekdays and 11am-6pm on weekends. Please check their website at https://eastbayvivarium.com/ for the most recent information on opening times.  Parking in the area has not proven to be an issue on my many visits. There is no parking lot or garage associated with the store.  However, there is usually enough street parking for patrons.  If you arrive with very young children, I do recommend a stroller, just in case you need to park a couple blocks away.

The East Bay Vivarium isn’t very big, but you will be blown away by the incredible number of reptiles and amphibians packed into this space.  Children love staring into the many terrariums, visualizing these creature in habitats that mirror their preferred home in the wild.  For the brave children, there is an option to hold snakes.  If you ask nicely at the front desk, the store clerk will allow patrons to hold some of the non-venomous snakes.  There is a fee attached to this, but it is nothing outrageous.  If you time your visit to the East Bay Vivarium correctly, you may be able to stop by in time for the feeding hour.  This isn’t for everyone.  Some adults and children may not be mentally prepared for this, so plan ahead.

Interactive Learning Experiences

The East Bay Vivarium has a strong commitment to proper reptile and amphibian care.  They are a great resource for families owning these categories of exotic animals. If you have general husbandry questions, the Vivarium store workers are incredibly helpful with offering solid advice.  They can also provide you information where to take your pet if they need to see a veterinarian. Also, if you are a household who owns a reptile or amphibian and are planning on a vacation, the Vivarium will care for your pet while you are away.  

The center hosts traveling programs to schools and birthday parties that allow children to see these animals up close, fostering a deeper understanding of these often-misunderstood creatures.  While showcasing these animals, educators lead discussions on the importance of reptiles and amphibians in the ecosystem, highlighting the role each species plays. Children come away not only with knowledge but a sense of stewardship for the environment and its inhabitants.

Reptile Expos

The East Bay Vivarium takes part in Expos across Northern California.  At these traveling shows, visitors can experience the vast array of amazing reptiles and amphibians.  It is another educational experience and a way to get up close to animals you may not otherwise experience first-hand.  For a complete list of upcoming expos, please visit the East Bay Vivarium webpage.

Takeaways for Youngsters of All Ages

The East Bay Vivarium offers an environment where children can not only learn about reptiles and amphibians but also engage with them in multiple ways. For aspiring herpetologists or simply for those looking to add a touch of wonder to their lives, a visit to this hidden gem in Berkeley, California is a wonderful experience.

Laura D