San Diego Zoo
- Admission
- $74 adults, $64 children (ages 3-11)
- Hours
- Daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (extended seasonal hours)
- Duration
- 4 to 6 hours
- Parking
- Free parking available in the public lot in front of the zoo
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible, shuttle bus for guests with mobility needs, wheelchair and ECV rentals available
Located in Balboa Park, this world-renowned 100-acre zoo is home to over 4,000 animals of more than 650 species. Famous for pioneering open-air, cageless exhibits, it features a lush botanical collection and a guided double-decker bus tour that covers most of the park.
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Established in 1916 following the Panama-California Exposition, the San Diego Zoo pioneered the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that mimic natural habitats. Located in lush Balboa Park, it has grown into one of the most famous and progressive zoological parks in the world.
Visitors can explore over 100 acres housing more than 4,000 animals across 650 species, from polar bears to African penguins. The zoo also doubles as an accredited botanical garden, boasting a massive collection of rare plants and exotic flora integrated throughout the enclosures.
A key highlight is the double-decker Guided Bus Tour, which provides an excellent overview of the park's hilly terrain. Additionally, the Skyfari Aerial Tram offers a scenic shortcut and spectacular bird's-eye views of the zoo canopy and surrounding city.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Arrive early in the morning when the animals are most active and the temperatures are cooler.
- ◆ Utilize the Guided Bus Tour first thing to get your bearings and plan your route through the massive park.
- ◆ Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo's terrain is notoriously hilly and spread across 100 acres.
- ◆ Download the official San Diego Zoo app for an interactive map and up-to-date schedules for keeper talks.
Heads Up
- ◆ Be prepared for steep climbs and hilly walking paths, which can be physically demanding for some visitors.
- ◆ Parking is free, but the lots can fill up extremely quickly on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
Common questions
Is parking free at the San Diego Zoo?
Yes, vehicle parking is free for all visitors in the main public lot located directly in front of the zoo.
Can you bring your own food and drinks into the San Diego Zoo?
Yes, guests are permitted to bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages in small bags or coolers, but glass containers and alcohol are prohibited.
Is there a shuttle between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park?
No, there is no shuttle service connecting the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. Visitors must arrange their own transportation for the roughly 30-mile drive between the two locations.
Is the guided bus tour included with regular admission?
Yes, the double-decker Guided Bus Tour is included with all standard 1-Day Pass tickets and membership entries.