Skip to main content
San Diego Tickets

Experience the best of San Diego Zoo

Crafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
4.7/5
5,376 travellers from around the world love this
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of this venue
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌

Top things to do in San Diego

Visitors exploring jellyfish exhibit at SeaWorld San Diego.

Seaworld San Diego Tickets

from

$49.99

Family enjoying entrance at Legoland California.

LEGOLAND California

from

$69

Child pointing at planetarium display in San Diego.

San Diego City Cards

from

$99

San Diego Zoo Safari Park entrance with thatched roof and signage.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

from

$78

USS Midway Museum aircraft carrier exterior with flags and signage.

USS Midway Museum

from

$40.98

San Diego skyline reflecting on water at sunset.

San Diego SEAL Tours

from

$55.59

Sesame Street characters posing at Sesame Place San Diego parade.

Sesame Place San Diego

from

$49.99

Old Town Trolley with passengers in San Diego near historic building.

Old Town Trolley Tours San Diego

from

$35

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We research and organise all unique experiences - from tickets to tours to special combos - so you get all the choices without the clutter.

We partner with the best

Every supplier is vetted for quality, reliability, and value so you only get top rated experiences. No surprises, no disappointments.

All the best options, in one place

Each experience is thoughtfully organised to give you maximum availability, great value and an easy way to choose.

Book with complete peace of mind

Free cancellations, Flexible payments, and 24/7 support - thoughtfully designed for flexibility, assurance, and total peace of mind.

Slide 1 of 4

Slide 1 of 4

San Diego Zoo (TL;DR)

  • Access included: Admission to the San Diego Zoo, with a guided bus tour, aerial tram, and access to all shows and exhibits included.
  • Zones & highlights: Desert, Tropical Rainforest, Tundra, Mountains, play areas like the Tree of Dreams and the Polar Play Area.
  • Ways to explore: Guided bus tour, self-guided exploration, Inside Look Tour (guided tour with behind-the-scenes access), Animals in Action Tour (guided tour with interactive animal encounters).
  • Best time to visit: Early in the day for the most animal activity.
  • Best upgrade: Add the Animals in Action tour with your admission ticket to enjoy a hands-on experience with animal encounters.

Which San Diego Zoo ticket is best for you

ExperienceInclusionsExclusionsWhy choose this

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Entry to the San Diego Zoo, Kangaroo Express bus tour, guided bus tour, Skyfari aerial tram, access to all shows and exhibits

Behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounter access, special habitat access

You can access all tours, shows, and exhibits with the admission ticket

San Diego Zoo Inside Look: Cart-Access to Non-Public Areas Guided Tour

90-min guided tour, expert Zoo guide escort, cart transportation, wildlife viewing up close, special habitat experiences, access to non-public areas

Entry to the San Diego Zoo

Visit sections of the Zoo that are not accessible with the general admission ticket with an expert leading the tour

San Diego Zoo Animals in Action: Hands-On Encounters Guided Tour

90-min guided tour, hands-on wildlife encounters with specialists, Wildlife Behavior Specialist guides, interactive wildlife encounters

Entry to the San Diego Zoo

Interactive animal encounters with a Wildlife Behavior Specialist for a hands-on experience

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park 2-Visit Pass

1 visit to the San Diego Zoo and 1 visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park OR 2 visits to either the San Diego Zoo or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounter access, special habitat access

Visit both the Zoo and the Safari Park with one ticket, or enjoy the flexible choice of making it 2 Zoo visits

San Diego Zoo Tickets: Group of 4 & More

Group entry to the San Diego Zoo, Kangaroo Express bus tour, guided bus tour, Skyfari aerial tram, access to all shows and exhibits

Behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounter access, special habitat access

Group discount on admission, ideal for families and large groups

San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Entry to the San Diego Zoo, Kangaroo Express bus tour, guided bus tour, Skyfari aerial tram, access to all shows and exhibits, skip-the-line entry to USS Midway Museum, multilingual audio guide

Behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounter access, special habitat access

Visit two of San Diego’s highlights with one ticket, with guided bus tour + audio guide available

San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour on the San Diego Old Town Trolley, access to Orange Route, entry to the San Diego Zoo

Behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounter access, special habitat access

Hop on hop off trolley access for 1-day, allowing you to visit landmarks across San Diego with insights on the tour, along with admission to the Zoo

What to expect on your San Diego Zoo visit

San Diego Zoo
1/8

See incredible animals up-close

The zoo is home to a thriving population of majestic animals from across 680 species. This means you'll have the chance to see a wider variety of wildlife than most zoos, including giant pandas, polar bears, koalas, and many more.

Encounter habitats from all over the world

The zoo is home to beautifully designed habitats that replicate ecosystems from around the world. Wander through lush rainforests, arid deserts, and open savannas while encountering animals in environments tailored to their natural needs. This allows you to observe animals behaving in a more natural way, making the experience more engaging and educational. Each zone is curated to make you feel like you’re traveling across continents in a single day.

All-in-one admission with immersive experiences

Enjoy a full day of discovery with access to the Kangaroo Express bus, a guided bus tour, and the scenic Skyfari aerial tram, all included in your admission ticket. You can also explore a wide range of shows, exhibits, and animal habitats at your own pace.

Take in the highlights on a guided bus tour

The guided bus tour offers a relaxed introduction to the zoo’s major highlights. It’s a great way to get oriented at the start of your visit or to enjoy a comprehensive overview without extensive walking. As you ride, a knowledgeable guide shares interesting facts, stories, and conservation insights about the animals and habitats you pass.

Soar above the zoo on the Skyfari aerial tram

Take a ride on the Skyfari aerial tram and glide above the zoo’s treetops. The scenic journey is an experience in itself, connecting different parts of the zoo while giving you a moment to relax.

Hop on and off with the Kangaroo Express bus

Getting around the zoo is easy with the Kangaroo Express bus, which allows you to hop on and off at multiple stops. It’s a convenient way to navigate the park while giving your feet a break between exhibits.

Enjoy hands-on animal encounters with experts

The Animals in Action tour offers a deeper, more interactive look at the animal kingdom. Led by a Wildlife Behavior Specialist, the tour introduces you to fascinating animal behaviors through engaging storytelling and demonstrations. You’ll also enjoy hands-on wildlife encounters, making it a memorable and educational experience for all ages.

Enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes access on the San Diego Zoo Inside Look Tour

Go beyond the public pathways with this 90-minute guided tour that takes you into areas rarely seen by regular visitors. Accompanied by an expert Zoo guide, you’ll travel by cart for comfort and convenience while exploring non-public spaces. Expect up-close wildlife viewing and unique insights into animal care and habitat design.

Things to know before booking your San Diego Zoo tickets

  • Ticket options: A general admission ticket to the San Diego Zoo is required for entry.
    • Standard admission: Includes entry , access to the aerial tram, guided bus tour, the hop-on, hop-off Kangaroo Bus, and access to all exhibits and shows.
    • Inside Look tour: Guided cart exploration of habitats and regions not accessible to the general public. Admission to the Zoo is not included with this ticket and is mandatory to participate.
    • Animals in Action tour: Guided hands-on exploration with animal encounters and a Wildlife Specialist guide. Admission to the Zoo is not included with this ticket and is mandatory to participate.
    • Group admission: Standard admission ticket to the San Diego Zoo with a group size of 4 or more visitors. 
  • Combo tours: Provide flexible scheduling and access to multiple attractions.
    • San Diego Zoo + Safari Park, 2 Visit Ticket: 1-day admission to the Zoo and Safari Park , or can be redeemed with 2 visits to either the San Diego Zoo or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
    • San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum: Admission to both attractions , with skip-the-line access to the USS Midway Museum and audio guide.
    • San Diego Zoo + Old Town Trolley: Admission to the Zoo with a 1-day pass to the hop-on, hop-off trolley (valid from 12am to 12am). Ideal for sightseeing, easy transportation between landmarks, and insights.
  • Accessibility: The Zoo is fully accessible, and accessible carts for the Inside Look Tour are available on prior reservations.****
  • Age requirements: Children aged 3 and older require tickets to enter the park, and all children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Zones at the San Diego Zoo

Fennec fox standing near a burrow at San Diego Zoo.
1/6

Desert

Despite harsh conditions, a variety of plants and animals have adapted to survive in deserts. You can find species like the Fennec Fox, Dromedary Camel, and the Thorny Devil.

Island

Island habitats, isolated from the mainland, foster unique species like Komodo Dragons and Galapagos Tortoises. These fragile ecosystems are vulnerable to outside influences.

Tropical Rainforest

Despite covering less than 6% of Earth’s surface, the rainforests are home to more than 50% of the world’s plant and animal species. Animals like the Jaguar, Orangutan, and the Poison Dart Frog can be found here.

Tundra

Beyond the Arctic ice, with temperatures as low as -76°F in winter and as high as 77°F during the short summer, animals like the Arctic Fox, Snowy Owl, and the Polar Bear have adapted to survive here.

Ocean and Coastline

A beautiful yet harsh environment, shaped by tides and erosion, the ocean and coastline are rich in biodiversity, hosting seabirds, clams, crabs, starfish, anemones, fish, kelp, and marine mammals.

Mountains

Alpine regions transition from green foothills to desolate summits, with creatures like the Snow Leopard and Mountain Goat adapting to the harsh conditions. Even with lower temperatures and intense sun, these elevations support a variety of life.

Attractions at the San Diego Zoo

4D Theater

The 4D Theater offers a magical experience with 3D movies and special effects. The current show, “The Bear and The Squirrel 4D,” is an adventure that’s suitable for all ages.

Botanical tours

Discover the Zoo’s beautiful gardens and plant collections at your own pace with the Botanical Tours. Highlights include the Orchid Odyssey and Carnivorous Plant Greenhouse.

Guided bus tour

The Guided Bus Tour is a 35-minute narrated adventure through the Zoo on a double-decker bus. It’s a great way to learn about the Zoo’s conservation work.

Play areas

The Zoo has several play areas like the Tree of Dreams and the Polar Play Area. Here, kids can explore an ancient oak tree and compare their height to life-size polar bear statues.

Wildlife Presentations

At the Wildlife Presentations, you can meet wildlife ambassadors and care specialists. These daily presentations offer insights into amazing wildlife from the Amazon to San Diego.

Kangaroo Bus

The Kangaroo Bus is a complimentary service that allows you to hop on and off at four stops throughout the Zoo. It’s a great way to explore the Zoo at your own pace.

Skyfari® Aerial Tram

The Skyfari® Aerial Tram offers an airborne shortcut over the treetops. It’s a unique way to enjoy spectacular views of the Zoo and surrounding Balboa Park.

Balboa Park Miniature Train

The Balboa Park Miniature Train takes you on a four-minute, half-mile loop through four acres of Balboa Park. It’s a delightful journey for both kids and adults.

Remarkable animals at the San Diego Zoo

Kestrel perched on a branch at San Diego Zoo.
Australian brush-turkey walking on sandy ground at San Diego Zoo.
Babirusa in lush greenery at San Diego Zoo.
Young bat-eared fox sitting on sandy ground at San Diego Zoo.
Binturong resting on a log at Zoo Aquarium Madrid.

Visiting San Diego Zoo with kids

The San Diego Zoo is built for family-friendly exploration. From interactive exhibits to convenient transport options, the zoo keeps young visitors engaged while offering plenty of comfort for parents.

Kid-friendly features include:

  • Play areas and kid-focused zones: Little explorers can burn off energy at designated play areas designed just for them. Spaces like the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp encourage curiosity through hands-on activities, climbing structures, and nature-inspired play. 
  • Interactive animal encounters and live programs: The zoo has plenty of experiences for kids to connect with animals beyond viewing exhibits. Enjoy daily presentations, feeding sessions, and up-close encounters led by expert keepers and educators. 
  • Easy navigation with family-friendly transport: Getting around the zoo is simple with options like the Kangaroo Express bus and Skyfari aerial tram. These are especially helpful for families with younger children who may tire easily. Stroller-friendly pathways and clearly marked routes also make navigating stress-free.
  • Convenient family facilities: You’ll find stroller access across most areas, along with restrooms featuring baby-changing stations. Nursing areas and shaded seating spots provide added comfort for parents traveling with infants or toddlers.
  • Flexible dining options for all ages: There are plenty of dining spots throughout the zoo offering kid-friendly meals, snacks, and drinks. From quick bites to sit-down options, menus are designed to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. 

Plan your visit

San Diego Zoo
  • Regular hours: 9am to 6pm daily.
    • Summer: From June to August the zoo extends its hours till 9pm.
    • Winter: During the winter month (November to February) it closes at 5 pm.
  • Special event hours: Extended hours may occur during seasonal events.
  • Last entry: 1 hour before closing time.
  • Closed on: The zoo is open on all days of the year.
  • Best time to visit: The zoo is best visited on weekday mornings when there are fewer people, and the animals are more active, especially during feeding times.
  • Guided tour duration:
    • Animals in Action: 90 minutes
    • Inside Look: 90 minutes
San Diego Zoo timings

Address: 920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States | Find on Maps

  • By bus: Bus numbers 215 and 7 take you to the nearest stop.
    Nearest stop: Park Bl & Inspiration Point Way
  • By car: San Diego Zoo is approximately 5 miles away from San Diego International Airport.
    Parking: You can park for free in the lot in front of the zoo or at Balboa Park.
Directions to San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
  • Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are located throughout the zoo
  • ATMs: ATM machines are located throughout the Zoo; however, cashless payments are preferred.
  • Lost and found: If you've misplaced an item, visit the Guest Services booth on Zoo grounds, situated to the left of the Bus Tour entrance. It's open daily until closing.
  • Storage: Storage for luggage is available at different prices.
  • First aid: For any medical assistance, a staffed first-aid station is on the north side of the Zoo’s Reptile House.
  • Gift shop: There are multiple gift shops present in the zoo offering a variety of items.
  • Stroller and wheelchair rental: Available on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance.
  • Restaurants: There are 11 dining options available serving quick bites to full-service dining.
  • Parking: Free parking is available in the lot in front of the Zoo and throughout Balboa Park.
San Diego Zoo
  • The San Diego Zoo is fully accessible by wheelchair. Ramps, elevators, and ADA pathways are available throughout the facility. Please note there are steep grades in parts of the Zoo.
  • Wheelchairs and electric scooters (ECVs) are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance. The Zoo also allows the use of other mobility assistive devices such as steerable knee walkers and Segways with a handlebar.
  • A complimentary ADA shuttle service operates inside the Zoo for those with mobility-related disabilities.
  • You can rent strollers near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
San Diego Zoo
  • You are not allowed to feed the animals or enter animal enclosures.
  • The Zoo and Safari Park do not allow pets, comfort animals, or emotional support animals.
  • The animals are the stars of the show! Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, or anything that might stress the animals.
  • Dispose of trash properly in designated bins and help keep the zoo clean.
  • Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must be worn at all times. The zoo reserves the right to deny entry to anyone in clothing deemed inappropriate or disruptive.
  • Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vapes, is strictly prohibited on zoo grounds.
  • Leave these items at home - alcohol, illegal substances, weapons (including replicas and toys), drones, laser pointers, noisemakers, and sporting equipment.
San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo has several dining options available, catering to a variety of tastes. Some top picks include:

  • Albert’s Restaurant (Lost Forest): Albert’s provides full-service dining with chef-inspired dishes, a patio boasting a private waterfall, and a full-service bar.
  • Busy Bee Cafe (Wildlife Explorers Basecamp): The dining spot at the Zoo serves up honey corn dogs, double trouble burgers, pizza, wings, and Family Meal portions of pizza and hot dogs.
  • San Diego Zoo Sandwich.co (near the Zoo entrance): San Diego Zoo Sandwich Co. provides hot breakfast, specialty sandwiches, soups from scratch, ice cream, and fresh salads.
San Diego Zoo

The zoo boasts 12 shops offering unique gifts, souvenirs, and more. Keep an eye out for these select stores.

  • San Diego Zoo Kids Store (Front Street): This top-rated store offers gifts, snacks, sundries, fashion, hats, T-shirts, books, toys, plush animals, and more.
  • Zootique (Front Street): This shop features international gifts, unique handcrafted items from around the world, gourmet foods, fashion, hats, jewelry, and much more.
  • Roar Store (Front Street): Everything you need to start your day. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and all the essentials.
  • Mercado (Reptile House): A one-stop shop for all things reptile, plus a wide assortment of souvenirs, toys, plush animals, hats, soft drinks, water, ice cream novelties, and more.
  • Zoo Brew (Treetops Way): Zoo Brew has Monkey Trails-themed gifts, apparel, and souvenirs. You can also find locally brewed draft beer, specialty coffee drinks, mini doughnuts, and popcorn.

San Diego also has an online store for wild gifts and souvenirs from the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

Visitor tips

  • Start early and ride the Skyfari first: Begin your visit with the Skyfari Aerial Tram to get a bird’s-eye view of the zoo and map out your route. Mornings are typically less crowded, making it easier to enjoy popular exhibits and rides. It’s also a great way to conserve energy for the rest of the day.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and plan for hills: The zoo spans a large area with some hilly terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. While paths are stroller-friendly, you’ll still be covering a lot of ground. Use the Kangaroo Express bus and Skyfari tram to minimize walking when needed.
  • Use the Kangaroo Express for efficient navigation: Take advantage of the hop-on, hop-off Kangaroo Express bus to move around. It’s especially helpful if you’re visiting with kids or want to avoid backtracking. Check the route map early so you can plan strategic stops.
  • Check show schedules and animal activity times: Plan your day around feeding sessions, keeper talks, and live shows for the best experience. Animals are often most active earlier in the day or during scheduled programs. 
  • Watch live animal cams before your visit: The zoo’s live cameras feature animals like apes, condors, and tigers in real time. Watching these ahead of your trip can build excitement for kids and help you prioritize must-see animals. It’s a fun way to start the experience even before you arrive.
  • Stay hydrated with refill stations: Bring reusable water bottles to take advantage of the many refill fountains across the zoo. Staying hydrated is key, especially on warm days. It’s also an eco-friendly choice that helps reduce plastic waste.
  • Take a break at Albert’s Restaurant: For a more relaxed dining experience, stop by Albert’s Restaurant and enjoy a meal with views of a private waterfall. Try to request a window seat for the best ambiance. It’s a quiet spot to recharge during a busy day.
  • Pack sun protection and light essentials: San Diego weather can be sunny year-round, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. A small backpack with essentials like snacks, wipes, and a portable charger can make your visit more comfortable. Travel light to avoid fatigue.
  • Plan for breaks and a flexible pace: The zoo offers plenty to see, so don’t try to do everything at once. Schedule short breaks at shaded areas or play zones, especially if visiting with kids. A relaxed pace ensures a more enjoyable and less tiring experience.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo tickets

No. Don't confuse the San Diego Zoo with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. They are two separate locations with different experiences. The Safari Park offers a more immersive, open-range experience where you can see animals roaming in larger enclosures.