Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo
All Things To Do
Key Info
Price & Hours
Details
Introduction to the San Diego Zoo
Spanning 100 acres in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo stands as one of the premier zoos in the United States. It hosts an extensive collection of rare and endangered species, boasting over 12,000 animals. Residents include Amur leopards, jaguars, red pandas, giraffes, elephants, and koalas, the latter being the largest collection outside Australia.
Exhibits and Trails
The zoo's layout is interconnected by a series of themed trails such as the Monkey Trail, Hippo Trail, and Tiger Trail. Each trail offers an immersive experience:
Lost Forest
Encounter hippos and bonobos.
Northern Frontier
Meet polar bears.
Urban Jungle
Observe rhinos.
Discovery Outpost
See Chinese alligators.
Ensure to have plenty of energy and a map or smartphone app to explore all the zoo's wonders. For those needing a break, the zoo provides a 35-minute guided bus tour and the Skyfari Aerial Tram. The tram transports visitors across the park, offering a bird's-eye view of the exhibits below. Additionally, the zoo hosts daily animal presentations, encounter programs, and features a 4D movie theater screening educational wildlife films.
Hours
Located in the northwest corner of Balboa Park, the zoo operates varying hours depending on the season. Typically, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during summer, with earlier closing times during other parts of the year. Check the zoo's website for the latest operating hours.
Tickets
Advance admission tickets are priced at $76 for adults (ages 12 and up) and $66 for children (ages 3 to 11). Two-day passes are also available, with no required reservations.
Getting There
Visitors can conveniently reach the zoo without personal vehicles by using the Rapid 215 and Route 7 buses, which stop at Broadway downtown. Parking at the zoo is free. The zoo also features several on-site dining options, from restaurants to casual eateries, as well as multiple stores.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
For a more immersive experience, visitors may explore the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. This sister park spans nearly 2,000 acres and is home to more than 3,600 animals, viewable through various safari experiences.
