San Diego Zoo

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 San Diego Zoo tickets 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, explore the zoo’s bioclimatic zones and animal habitats independently or take a guided bus tour for an overview of the space. For a bird’s-eye view of the San Diego Zoo’s wildlife, hop aboard the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Those with kids can head to the Children’s Zoo to spend time at the Petting Paddock.

San Diego Zoo tours are a good way to deepen your knowledge of the animals in the park. For a good overview, sign up for one of the zoos. "Discovery Cart Tours,” which involve riding around in a large cart with a guide. Animal encounters and special experiences are ideal if you want exclusive access to parts of the zoo most people don’t get to see. Free shows and presentations are offered throughout the day, while other experiences, including the 4-D theater and carousel, cost extra.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Children younger than 3 visit free with a paid adult and you can buy discounted tickets for those ages 3–11.

• The zoo is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent. Mobility scooters are allowed (just check in advance for details on safety restrictions). There’s also a 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.

• Many visitors combine a visit to the zoo with the San Diego Safari Park, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) away.

• You can rent strollers and lockers at the zoo.

• Wi-Fi is free throughout the zoo and 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 morning until early evening, though timings depend 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

Zoo highlights include the Tiger River bioclimatic exhibit, which realistically re-creates an Asian rainforest environment, and Gorilla Tropics, which does the same with an African rainforest. 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.

How much will it cost to go to the San Diego Zoo?

There are various ticketing options for the San Diego Zoo, and costs vary depending on when and where you buy them. Advance online rates for adults are typically around US$70 per person, while kids can visit for around US$60. Booking 2-visit or multi-day passes grant access to the Safari Park and typically offer discounts.

What month is San Diego Zoo free?

Every October is Kids Free Month at the San Diego Zoo, when children 11 and under can enjoy free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. February is Free Seniors Month, when visitors 65 and above get free entry to the Safari Park.

Can I go to the San Diego Zoo without a reservation?

Yes. You can visit the San Diego Zoo without an advanced reservation and purchase same-day tickets upon arrival. Book your tickets online before your trip to get the best rates and ensure a smooth visit.

Who gets in free at the San Diego Zoo?

During the month of October, all children 11 and below can enjoy free entry to the San Diego Zoo. Meanwhile, February is Free Seniors Month at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and all visitors 65 and older receive free admission.

Is parking free at the San Diego Zoo?

Yes, free parking is available in the lot directly in front of the San Diego Zoo. If that lot is full, you can take advantage of additional free parking available throughout Balboa Park, the 1,200-acre (486-hectare) public park housing the zoo and other city attractions.

What is the best day of the week to go to the San Diego Zoo?

There’s no bad time to visit the San Diego Zoo, but if you want to beat the crowds, it’s best to try weekday mornings. Weekends, summer, and school holidays can be very hectic. To take advantage of the zoo’s open-air attractions, visit on a good-weather day.

Ways to explore

It’s impossible to see the whole zoo in one visit, but the zoo offers a variety of guided tours and special experiences for those on a tight schedule. These include special access to exhibits before opening hours, small-group bus tours, and getting a bird’s-eye view by hopping on the Skyfair Aerial Tram. The zoo is also frequently included as a stop on tours of Balboa Park and visited as part of a multi-day trip along with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Prebook your tickets for ease.

Accessibility

The zoo offers rental wheelchairs and electric scooters for adults (ID required), a shuttle service between various park locations, and wheelchair-accessible bus tours. Registered service dogs are welcome.

Age limits

There are no age restrictions, and the zoo offers a variety of activities suitable for children of all ages. Price-reduced tickets are available for children aged 3-11, while children under 3 receive free entry.

What to pack

Small backpack, credit card, water bottle, snacks, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, casual sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, hat, layers

Not allowed

Glass containers, coolers, pets, drones, alcohol

Amenities

EV charging stations, paid parking, lockers, paid luggage storage, stroller rentals, cafés, shops

Address 

The San Diego Zoo is easy to get to, thanks to its central location in Balboa Park and the multiple public transit options available.

Driving

If you’re coming from the north along I-5 (Los Angeles/Orange County), take the Pershing Dr. exit and follow the signs. On I-15 (Escondido/Riverside), take SR-163 south to the Park Blvd./I-5 South exit, then exit at Park Blvd. Turn left and continue north; the zoo parking is on Park Boulevard at Zoo Place. If you’re coming from the south on I-5 (Mexico), take SR-163 north, exit at Zoo/Museums (Richmond St.), and follow the signs to the zoo parking lot.

Public transportation

Catch either the Rapid 215 or Route 7 bus from downtown, and hop off at the stop for the zoo.

Best times to visit

Visiting in the morning is a good way to beat the crowds and see many of the animals at their most active. Some of the tour options also include visiting enclosures before they’re fully open.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are always better, since you’ll miss the bulk of the local crowd.

Best months to visit

Visit in April or May for warm spring weather. It’s also a gorgeous time of year to explore the surrounding Balboa Park.

Special events

A variety of events fill up the zoo’s calendar, from October’s weekly HalGLOWeen nights, with trick-or-treating, music, and games, to Jungle Bells, which runs from mid-December to the start of January.