Visiting the San Diego Zoo? Here’s everything you need to know.
The San Diego Zoo is only a 2 hour drive away from LA (maybe half an hour more with traffic) and makes a perfect day trip when people visit us in LA. My parents were in town last month, so we decided to take them there. This was exciting for us, because it was our first time as well!
We were supposed to go to the zoo the last time we were in SD for our anniversary but decided on continuing the brewery tours instead. We got our priorities. ;)
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Last Updated: April 5, 2024
Visiting the San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo is one of the most spacious and well designed zoos we’ve visited. I can see why it’s one of the highest rated zoos in the US and the world. Every other zoo we’ve visited, we spent a couple hours and got to see all the animals. We underestimated how big this one would be.
We spent four hours here and still missed a handful of exhibits. I, personally, like everything on a single path so it’s easier to navigate. This zoo is built more like a park with several different trails, which makes it difficult to see everything if that’s what you want to do. It’s more set up so that you go on the trails with the animals that interest you.
Just to give you an idea, the zoo is 100 acres large and has more than 800 species from all over the world. Although, we didn’t get to see all the animals, we saw all the animals we wanted to see!
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Things to Do at the San Diego Zoo
The zoo is huge and can be overwhelming if you’re trying to do everything. We recommend prioritizing what gets you most excited then work your way through the rest of it.
1. See the Animals
This is an obvious one. The zoo is split up into different regions: Reptile Walk, Lost Forest, Northern Frontier, Asian Passage, Elephant Odyssey, Africa Rocks, Outback, Urban Jungle, and Wildlife Explorers Basecamp.
Find a map of the zoo here.
Local Tip: Animals tend to be more active in the mornings and evenings so prioritize your favorites during those times.
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2. Botanical Tours
When you’re focused on the animals, you may forget that San Diego Zoo also has spectacular gardens and plant collections, including ales, orchids, coral trees, carnivorous plants, and more. They have helpful Tour Brochures for different areas of the zoo.
In addition to that, they have Orchid Odyssey, which is open from 10 AM to 2 PM where there’s always an orchid in bloom. They also have Plant Days, where you can visit the Carnivorous Plant Greenhouse from 10 AM to 1 PM. They also run special Botanical Bus Tours on Plant Days at 11 AM and run a plant sale from 10 AM to 2 PM. See Plant Days here.
3. Guided Bus Tour
Whether you’re tired or you just want to get your bearings for the layout of the zoo, taking a Guided Bus Tour is one of the best ways to see the park. It’s a 35-minute tour on a double-decker bus and you’ll learn about how the zoo works with animals around the world. Tours are first-come first-served and you can download their app for the most up-to-date times and info.
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4. Wildlife Presentations
The zoo has different wildlife presentations offered throughout the day. During these presentations you get a chance to see, meet, and learn more about the animals in the park, along with the people who care for them.
5. Ride the Skyfari Aerial Tram
Another great perspective of the park is from the skies! The Skyfari Aerial Tram has two stations: the East Station in Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, and the West Station in Northern Frontier.
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Special Experiences at the Zoo
If you want to make your visit extra special, check out the San Diego Zoo’s Special Experiences. You can get a behind-the-scenes tour, have a wildlife encounter, or get an VIP experience of the park.
- Inside Look Tours ($92+) – Get a behind the scenes look on how the zoo cares of the animals.
- Discovery Cart Tour ($60+) – Sit back in your own expedition cart on a 60-minute guided tour.
- Animals in Action Experience ($95+) – See exotic cats in an up-close view.
- Hike to Hippos ($49+) – Take a 6–minute tour where you’ll see pint-sized pygmy hippos and iconic river hippos.
- Exclusive VIP Experience ($710+) – Get personalized service giving you the best zoo experience possible.
- Early Morning Explorers ($39+) – Offered on select dates, see the zoo before it opens for the day.
San Diego Zoo Hours and Address
The San Diego Zoo changes hours throughout the year. You can check the most up-to-date hours here. The current hours are as follows:
- March 16 to April 7, 2024 9 AM – 7 PM
- April 8-30, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM
- May 1-23, 2024 9 AM – 7 PM
- Except May 9, 2024 9 AM – 4 PM
- May 24 to September 2, 2024 9 AM – 9 PM
- Except June 15, 2024 9 AM – 5 PM
- September 3 to October 3, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM
- Except September 21, 2024 9 AM – 4 PM
- October 4-31, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM (9 PM on Fridays to Sundays)
- October 7-10, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM
The San Diego Zoo Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)
San Diego Zoo Ticket Prices
1-Day Pass – Any Day: Adult $74 ($72 online), Children $64 ($62 online)
1-Day Pass – Value Days: Adult $74 ($68 online), Children $64 ($58 online)
1-Day Pass Plus – Any Day (includes 4D Theater Experience): Adult $81 ($79 online), Children $71 ($69 online)
1-Day Pass Plus – Value Days (includes 4D Theater Experience): Adult $81 ($75 online), Children $71 ($65 online)
2-Visit Pass (includes both zoos): Adult $124, Children $114
San Diego 3-for-1 Pass (includes both zoos and SeaWorld): Adult $199, Children $189
What to Eat
There are a few different restaurant and food options at the zoo. We haven’t eaten at any of them but if you have, let us know what you think.
Africa Rocks
- Baboon Outpost – Dippin Dots, soft drinks, chips, and water. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Rocks Box– hot dogs, nachos, draft beer, ICEEs, and more. See the menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Asian Passage
- Bamboo Bar – hot dogs, pretzels, draft beer, micheladas, margaritas, and more. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Hua Mei Cafe – Asian-inspired cuisine items, chicken sandwiches, burgers, salads, ice cream treats, frozen cocktails, and more. See the menu here. Vegan options available.
- Hua Mei Cones – soft-serve ice cream, pretzels, and churros. See menu here. Gluten free and vegan options available.
- The Pagoda – corn dogs, egg rolls, wraps, draft beers, popcorn, Dippin Dots, snow cones, and more. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Elephant Odyssey
- The Bridge SNacks & Refreshments – draft beer, micheladas, margaritas, ICEEs, snow cones, soft drinks, pretzels, and popcorn. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Odyssey Oasis – frozen treats, popcorn, hot dogs, soda, and beer. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Sabertooth Mexican Grill – Mexican-style cuisine, including tacos, burritos, wraps, nachos, craft beer, and house-made margaritas. See the menu here. Gluten free and vegan options available.
Front Street
- Front Street Sweet Shack – crafted shakes, sundaes, and even a doughnut burger. See the menu here. Gluten free options available.
- Kettle Corn – curros, kettle corn, pretzels, draft beer, ICEEs, and soft drinks. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Lagoon Terrace – pizza by the slice, meatball subs, hot dogs, wraps, and draft beers. See menu here. Gluten free and vegetarian options available.
- Safari Kitchen – burgers, chicken sandwiches, loaded tater tots, and more. See menu here. Gluten free and vegan options available.
- San Diego Craft Beer & Margaritas – craft beer, cocktails, and margarits. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- San Diego Zoo Sandwich Co. – hot breakfast (served from 8:30-11 AM), specialty sandwiches, soups, salads, and ice cream. Vegetarian options available.
- Sweets & Treats – cookies, coffee, ice cream, and fudge. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Lost Forest
- Albert’s Restaurant (Mon to Fri 11 AM – 6 PM, Sat to Sun 10 AM – 6 PM) – full service dining with gluten free and vegan offerings. See the menu here.
- Ituri Hut – soft pretzels, hot dogs, churros, margaritas, draft beers, micheladas, and ICEEs. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Jungle Java – specialty coffee, drinks, pastries, and popcorn. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Plaza Cart – classic beverages and snacks. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Treetops Bistro – grab-and-go style meals with mutilevel decks seating options. See menu here. Gluten free and vegan options available.
- Treetops Canteen – snacks, sweets, beer, and more. See menu here.
- Zoo Brew – locally brewed draft beers, specialty coffee drinks, and mini doughnuts. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Northern Frontier
- Jungle Snacks – hot dogs, micheladas, popcorn, churros, and pretzels. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Tundra Treats – frozen margaritas, ICEEs, popcorn, and pretzels. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
Outback
- Boardwalk Beer Garden – local craft beer, wine on draft, cocktails, pretzels, sandwiches, charcuterie, and more. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Koala Cart – ICEEs, soft drinks, cocktails, frozen treats, and cotton candy. See menu here. Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
- Sydney’s Grill – barbecue entrees, grilled chicken sandwiches, fresh salads, ice cream, beer, and margaritas. See the menu here. Gluten free and vegas options available.
Wildlife Explorer’s Basecamp
- Busy Bee Cafe – brand new eatery offering honey corn dogs, burgers, pizza, and wings. Gluten free and vegas options available.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Plan ahead and figure out what you want to see. See the park map. The place is huge, and it’s difficult to see all the animals there so it’s best to prioritize your faves.
- Take the Double-Decker Guided Bus Tour first to get a good idea of the zoo layout. It’s 35 mins and covers a majority of the zoo.
- Bring your own water bottle (these are the best ones we tested on the road). There are a lot of fountains to refill.
- Wear comfortable shoes to walk in. It’s a huge park and also hilly.
- Use the Kangaroo Bus to help you get around the park. It’s free to ride and has four stops throughout the park. There is a stop in the Outback, Lost Forest, Northern Frontier, and Africa Rocks.
- If you have kids, check out the Balboa Park Railroad. It’s a four-minute, half-mile loop through Balboa Park. It costs $4 per person and is located just outside the Zoo’s exit.
- If you plan on visiting multiple attractions in San Diego, get a Go City attractions pass to save money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the San Diego Zoo have Pandas?
The Atlanta Zoo is the only zoo in the US that currently has Pandas. San Diego did have them when we visitedbut that loan program ended in April 2019. The latest news mentioned that they will be getting pandas again soon. Did you know that Pandas are all owned by the Chinese government and are only on loan for research and preservation purposes?
Do I need a Reservation to Visit?
You do not need a reservation to visit!
How much is Parking at the San Diego Zoo?
The parking lot in front of the San Diego Zoo is free. If the lot is full, there is overflow parking at Inpiration Point on the east side of Park Boulevard.
Are there lockers at the San Diego Zoo?
Self-service lockers are available at Front Street.
Can I bring a bag into the San Diego Zoo?
You may carry small backpacks or bags in the zoo.
What items are prohibited at the San Diego Zoo?
Items not permitted include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes and marijuana. We are a smoke-free environment
- Alcohol and illegal substances
- Weapons of any kind to include replicas and toys
- Disruptive items such as drones, laser pointers, noise makers and sporting equipment
- Any transportation device not otherwise approved as a mobility device per SDZWA’s ADA guidelines
- Inappropriate or offensive attire. Proper attire, including shoes and shirts must be worn at all times
- Animals other than trained service animals
- Coolers larger than 12” by 12”
- Glass bottles or containers
- Costume masks or costume/clothing deemed by SDZWA management that too closely resembles an employee uniform
- Professional photographers with professional cameras or recording equipment, who are visiting the San Diego Zoo and/or Safari Park with the intent to take photographs or recordings of people, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance properties, or icons for professional purposes. Permission must be requested in advance and prior arrangements must be made with the appropriate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance representatives. Permission for any recordings or broadcasts on the premises are within the sole discretion of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
Does the San Diego Zoo have platypuses?
Yes! They have two patypuses, which are the only two platypuses outside Australia. They are most active during dusk and nighttime hours.
Best Places to Stay
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on San Diego hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a San Diego travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
- Save money on attractions with Go City.
What are your favorite animals to see at the zoo? Have you been to San Diego Zoo?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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Wow that place is massive! Great tips for if ever I get there. Gorgeous pics. I love the pic of the polar bear which you used on top and of course I loved the pandas too. So adorable!
Thank you! :) Haha The polar bear was seriously just sitting there posing for photographs. I hope you get to visit one day and I hope to see the red pandas in Singapore!
what a coincidence! i was just looking up info on where pandas live and that’s where i learned that there are pandas in sandiego, ATL, and D.C. my fav pic is the panda that’s loungin’, sitting back against those rocks, chillin’ and chewin’ on his bamboo. =)
haha that’s funny. why were you looking up where pandas lived???? SO RANDOM. :P
He’s the baby!!!
I am DYING to visit this zoo one day! Was just discussing it the other day with an American and I love that they are all rescued animals!
They are? I had no idea! :)
I’ve been wanting to visit this zoo, it was on our list of things to do when I thought we were going to visit LA. One day we’ll get there! Looks amazing!
You definitely need to go! I think you’ll have a blast taking photos! :)
I’m going there soon!!! I’m so excited!
When are you going? :) It’s a really nice zoo!
I’m going in two weeks!
Are you stopping by LA? :D Have fun!
No just going to be in San Diego!