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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.
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San Diego Zoo Tickets
4.4(1.9K Ratings)
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
- Experience the thrill of wildlife like never before at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, full of rare, exquisite animals and enchanting exhibits.
- Your ticket is an all-access pass to thrilling experiences like the guided bus tour and Skyfari Aerial Tram – your journey into the wild starts here!
- Kangaroos, tigers, or apes? Each ticket gets you up close and personal with the world's most fascinating creatures.
- Be intrigued by the elusive inhabitants of the West African Forest exhibit, complete with a thundering 65-foot manmade waterfall, Rady Falls.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the undiscovered corners of the animal kingdom, from the polar bear plunge to the elephant odyssey.
- Experience the thrill of wildlife like never before at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, full of rare, exquisite animals and enchanting exhibits.
- Your ticket is an all-access pass to thrilling experiences like the guided bus tour and Skyfari Aerial Tram – your journey into the wild starts here!
- Kangaroos, tigers, or apes? Each ticket gets you up close and personal with the world's most fascinating creatures.
- Be intrigued by the elusive inhabitants of the West African Forest exhibit, complete with a thundering 65-foot manmade waterfall, Rady Falls.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the undiscovered corners of the animal kingdom, from the polar bear plunge to the elephant odyssey.
Inclusions
- Entry to the San Diego Zoo
- Kangaroo Express bus tour
- Guided bus tour
- Skyfari aerial tram
- Access to all shows and exhibits
- Tip: Try the locally sourced, sustainable food options at the zoo's eateries. 'Treetops Cafe' is a local favourite!
- With your voucher, you can skip the ticketing window and proceed directly to the entrance. Please be aware that this privilege is only applicable for bypassing the admission ticket line and does not extend to the bus or Skyfari lines.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Grab this opportunity to dive into the fascinating wildlife world with a ticket to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, your passport to adventure!
- Hop aboard the Africa Tram, your window to the wild, letting you marvel at giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without any barriers.
- Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats.
- Experience the thrill of feeding colourful lorikeets by hand as they swoop down for nectar.
- Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, offering an immersive experience in their environment.
- Grab this opportunity to dive into the fascinating wildlife world with a ticket to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, your passport to adventure!
- Hop aboard the Africa Tram, your window to the wild, letting you marvel at giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without any barriers.
- Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats.
- Experience the thrill of feeding colourful lorikeets by hand as they swoop down for nectar.
- Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, offering an immersive experience in their environment.
Inclusions
- Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Access to Africa Tram
- Access to Cheetah Run
- All scheduled shows & exhibits
Exclusions
- Entry to the San Diego Zoo
- Parking
- Tip: The Park's observation deck offers panoramic views, making it an excellent photo op. Capture a selfie with giraffes in the background!
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Africa Tram Safari is subject to availability.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- With the San Diego Explorer Pass, get access to over 45 attractions and save up to $37.
- Rather than buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley, save 48% with this pass.
voila! It's activated. Your pass is valid for 60 days post-activation. - Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures are just some of the attractions included in your pass.
- Choose from a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass and eliminate the hassle of standing in line with this digital pass.
- Unsure about activation and validity? Just visit your first attraction, and scan your pass.
- With the San Diego Explorer Pass, get access to over 45 attractions and save up to $37.
- Rather than buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley, save 48% with this pass.
voila! It's activated. Your pass is valid for 60 days post-activation. - Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures are just some of the attractions included in your pass.
- Choose from a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass and eliminate the hassle of standing in line with this digital pass.
- Unsure about activation and validity? Just visit your first attraction, and scan your pass.
Inclusions
- Choice of 2/3/4/5/7 of San Diego's top attractions
- Access to attractions: San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND® California, San Diego Zoo & more
- Access to outdoor activities: San Diego Speed Boat Adventures, Whale Watching by City Cruises, San Diego Hiking Tour & more
- Discounts at restaurants: South Coast Plaza Shop & Dine Package & more
- Get complete details here
- Certain attractions require prior bookings. For the complete list, please click here
- You can visit each attraction once daily for your chosen pass.
- First, download the Go City App. Use your order confirmation number to add your pass to your phone. Once you visit your first attraction, your pass will be activated!
- Feeling old school? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email. You can also show this version of your pass on your phone.
- Get access to pre-recorded commentary, suggested itineraries, a handy map, and more, available at your fingertips!
- Your pass is activated as soon as you visit your 1st attraction and is valid for 60 days before it runs out. The days needn't be consecutive.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 90 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.
San DiegoSan Diego Zoo
Top things to do in San Diego
Why visit San Diego Zoo
See incredible animals up-close
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Activities to try out 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.
Rare and remarkable animals at the San Diego Zoo
Plan your visit
Timings
Getting there
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
Dining
Shop
Stay
Visitor tips
Nearby
- Regular hours: 9am to 6pm daily. During summer (June to August) the zoo extends its hours till 9pm. 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.
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.
- 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 available in the lot in front of the Zoo and throughout Balboa Park.
- 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.
- 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.
The San Diego Zoo has several dining options available, catering to a variety of tastes. Here are our top picks for you:
- Albert’s Restaurant: Situated in Lost Forest at the center of the Zoo, Albert’s provides full-service dining with chef-inspired dishes, a patio boasting a private waterfall, and a full-service bar.
- Busy Bee Cafe: The latest 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: San Diego Zoo Sandwich Co., situated just inside the Zoo entrance, provides hot breakfast, specialty sandwiches, soups from scratch, ice cream, and fresh salads.
The zoo boasts 12 shops offering unique gifts, souvenirs, and more. Keep an eye out for these select stores.
- San Diego Zoo Kids Store: This Zagat-rated store offers gifts, snacks, sundries, fashion, hats, T-shirts, books, toys, plush animals, and more.
- Zootique: This shop features international gifts, unique handcrafted items from around the world, gourmet foods, fashion, hats, jewelry, and much more.
- Roar Store: Everything you need to start your day! Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and so much more.
- Mercado: 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: Located halfway down 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.
Budget hotels:
Balboa Park Hotel
PodShare San Diego
Mid-range hotels:
Holiday Inn Express
Best Western Cabrillo Garden Inn
Luxury hotels:
Kimpton Alma
Hotel Z
- Start your visit with the Skyfari Aerial Tram to get an overview of the zoo and plan your route. It’s less crowded in the morning.
- The terrain across the Zoo in some areas can be a little hilly but yet still stroller-friendly. The Kangaroo Bus and Skyfari Tram help avoid some of these hills, but you’ll still definitely want to wear comfortable walking shoes.
- San Diego Zoo parking is free. You’ll see tall poles with animal plaques on them that are meant for you to remember the section you’re in. The lot is large, so take a photo of the animal section your car is in to avoid forgetting where you parked.
- The San Diego Zoo has live cameras that air animal activities online, including apes, condors, and tigers. Watch the videos ahead of your visit to get kids excited about what they’ll see.
- The Albert’s Restaurant offers a relaxing meal with views of a private waterfall. Try to grab a table near the window.
- Remember to bring reusable water bottles. The zoo has numerous water refill fountains and this helps reduce plastic waste.
- Little Italy: Bustling with a variety of eateries, Little Italy offers a vibrant dining scene. You’ll find this lively neighborhood just a short drive west of the zoo.
- Gaslamp Quarter: Filled with shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historic district that’s always buzzing with activity. It’s located approximately 2.5 miles southwest of the zoo.
- USS Midway Museum: Offering a unique glimpse into naval history with its restored aircraft and flight simulators, the USS Midway Museum is a must-visit. This fascinating museum is about 3 miles southwest from the zoo.
- Seaport Village: If shopping and dining by the waterfront sound appealing, then Seaport Village is the place to be. This charming complex is a mere 3-mile trip southwest from the zoo.
- Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Step back in time at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which commemorates the early days of San Diego. This state-protected historical park is roughly 4 miles west of the zoo.
Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo tickets
Are San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park the same place?
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.
Can I bring food and drinks into the zoo?
Yes, you can bring bottled water into the zoo, but outside food and drinks are not allowed. There are many restaurants and snack stands throughout the zoo to purchase food and beverages.
Can I leave and re-enter the zoo on the same day?
Yes, you can leave and re-enter the San Diego Zoo on the same day. Just make sure to get your hand stamped at the exit for easy re-entry.
Is the zoo suitable for kids?
Yes, the San Diego Zoo is suitable for all ages. However, some younger children may not have the stamina to walk around the entire zoo for extended periods. You can rent strollers and wagons at the entrance of the park.
How long should I spend at the San Diego Zoo?
Plan to spend a full day at the San Diego Zoo to make the most of your visit. With so much to see and do, you'll want plenty of time to explore all the incredible exhibits!
Is it safe to visit San Diego Zoo?
Yes, the zoo prioritizes safety with secure enclosures and trained staff. By following instructions, staying on paths, and maintaining a safe distance from animals, the risk of attack from any of the animals is low.
Is it worth visiting the San Diego Zoo?
Absolutely! The San Diego Zoo is one of the most renowned zoos in the world, known for its vast collection of animals and dedication to conservation. It's a must-visit for animal lovers and families alike.