A complete guide to reaching San Diego Zoo

This is the most affordable way to get to the San Diego Zoo. A one-way ticket on the bus or trolley costs approximately $2.50, and there are discounted rates for seniors, students, and military personnel.

• Travel time: 15 to 30 minutes from downtown San Diego
  
• Closest stop: Balboa Park/Zoo
  
• Bus routes: The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) offers several bus routes that conveniently drop you off near the zoo. Take bus route 7 or 215 for direct access to the zoo’s entrance at Balboa Park.
  
• Timings: The buses run early mornings from 4:30am until about 1:12am. The schedules may vary on weekends and holidays.

• Travel time: 20 to 35 minutes from downtown San Diego
  
• Closest station: City College Station

While the San Diego Trolley doesn't directly serve the zoo, you can take the Blue Line or Orange Line to the City College Station and transfer to the 7 bus, which will bring you directly to the zoo's entrance.

For the quickest option, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. These services can bring you directly to the zoo’s entrance from anywhere in the San Diego area, with average travel times of 10 to 15 minutes from downtown San Diego.

• From Downtown San Diego: Head north on Park Boulevard, following signs for Balboa Park. The Zoo's entrance is located off Park Boulevard, just past the Balboa Park entrance.
  
• From San Diego International Airport: A 15-minute drive along North Harbor Drive, turning onto Laurel Street and continuing to Zoo Drive, brings you directly to the zoo.

Parking at the San Diego Zoo is free and available in the large lot located near the main entrance. However, spaces can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Arriving early ensures you’ll secure a convenient spot.

If the zoo lot is full, additional parking can be found in nearby areas of Balboa Park, with free shuttle services available to transport you to the zoo entrance.