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Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm, hours extended in some months
Admission: Adults: US$54, Children (3-11yrs): US$44

San Diego ATTRACTIONS See all

San Diego Zoo Tours

The world-famous San Diego Zoo presents a stunning variety of nature’s largest, smallest, exotic, and most endangered creatures. The epic zoo has more than 3,700 animals representing over 800 species in a beautifully landscaped 100 acres (40.5 hectares), typically in lush enclosures that replicate their natural habitat. San Diego Zoo is considered to be one of the best and well-known zoos in the world, and is a must-see attraction in sunny Southern California.

The Basics

The San Diego Zoo is nestled in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre (486-hectare) urban park filled with loads of cultural and other attractions. Purchase admission tickets to San Diego Zoo in advance and in conjunction with other Balboa Park sights to avoid lines, or with transportation within San Diego or nearby parts of Southern California. Once inside, travelers typically explore the zoo’s bioclimatic zones and exhibits independently or take the 35-minute guided bus tour for an overview of the space. Free shows and presentations are offered throughout the day, while other experiences, including the 4-D theater and carousel, have additional fees to access. Many visitors combine a visit to the zoo with a trip to the San Diego Safari Park, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) away.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most visitors spend three to four hours at the zoo.
The zoo offers services such as fee-based wheelchair rentals and free shuttle bus service for travelers with limited mobility.
As the San Diego sun is typically shining, it’s best to wear sunscreen if you plan to be outdoors for most of the day.
Fee-based stroller and locker rentals are offered.
Those with kids can head to the Children’s Zoo to spend time at the Petting Paddock.
Free Wi-Fi is available in the zoo and throughout Balboa Park.

How to Get There

The San Diego Zoo is located in the northwestern corner of Balboa Park, near the San Diego Museum of Art. Parking is plentiful and free, but note that lots can fill on weekends. Once inside, you can walk, take a bus, or take the Skyfari cable car to easily get around the zoo.

When to Get There

The zoo is open daily, typically from 9am to 5 or 6pm depending on the season. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the animals are most active. Feedings often also take place at this time. To avoid crowds, try to visit on a weekday.

Can’t-Miss Sights at the San Diego Zoo

Highlights include the Tiger River bioclimatic exhibit, which realistically re-creates an Asian rain forest environment, and Gorilla Tropics, which does the same with an African rain forest. The koalas are some of the most popular animals to see—and the zoo says theirs is the largest colony outside of Australia. Polar bears and rare giant pandas are other favorites, as is the Absolutely Apes habitat, which has orangutans and siamangs climbing in lush forests. Finally, don’t miss the African Rock Kopje, where klipspringers (small antelopes) dash around the rocky landscape.

Tours & Tickets

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San Diego Zoo

161 Reviews

With literally thousands of wild animals including many on the endangered species list, its no wonder that San Diego Zoo is world famous. With more than 4,000 ... Read more

Location: San Diego, California
Duration: Varies

From USD $54.00

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Combo Tour

7 Reviews

With literally thousands of wild animals including many on the endangered species list, its no wonder that San Diego Zoo is world famous. With more than 4,000 ... Read more

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San Diego Zoo with Transport from Anaheim

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Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo to see where the world’s largest collection of exotic wild animals call home. Explore a vast number of open-air exhibits ... Read more

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Go San Diego Card

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With access to 43 attractions, activities and tours all around San Diego, the Go San Diego™ Card offers something for everyone! Visit the San Diego Zoo, ... Read more

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San Diego Tour: Hop-on Hop-off Trolley

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Discover San Diego at your leisure with a one-or two-day ticket on the Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour. Create your own itinerary to see the most popular sights ... Read more

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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Inspired by the African Serengeti and the endless expanses of the Asian plains, the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers you an exotic safari adventure ... Read more

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San Diego GoCar Tour

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This cute little 2-passenger GoCar is easy to navigate and so much fun to drive, allowing you to see San Diego sights on your own schedule. You’re guided with ... Read more

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San Diego Zoo Tours

Tours & Tickets

San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Combo Tour

San Diego Zoo with Transport from Anaheim

Go San Diego Card

San Diego Tour: Hop-on Hop-off Trolley

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego GoCar Tour

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