San Diego Zoo Hours & Best Time to Visit

Timings

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is open daily from 9am to 6pm, with extended hours during select holiday events like Jungle Bells.

Jan - Mar

Apr - Jun

Jul - Sep

Oct - Dec

Jan 6 TO Mar 14 Timings Days (Jan 6 TO Mar 14)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–17:00
Tuesday	09:00–17:00
Wednesday	09:00–17:00
Thursday	09:00–17:00
Friday	09:00–17:00
Saturday	09:00–17:00
Sunday	09:00–17:00

Mar 15 TO Mar 24 Timings Days (Mar 15 TO Mar 24)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–19:00
Tuesday	09:00–19:00
Wednesday	09:00–19:00
Thursday	09:00–19:00
Friday	09:00–19:00
Saturday	09:00–19:00
Sunday	09:00–19:00

Mar 25 TO Mar 25 Timings Days (Mar 25 TO Mar 25)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–16:00
Tuesday	09:00–16:00
Wednesday	09:00–16:00
Thursday	09:00–16:00
Friday	09:00–16:00
Saturday	09:00–16:00
Sunday	09:00–16:00

Mar 26 TO Apr 6 Timings Days (Mar 26 TO Apr 6)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–19:00
Tuesday	09:00–19:00
Wednesday	09:00–19:00
Thursday	09:00–19:00
Friday	09:00–19:00
Saturday	09:00–19:00
Sunday	09:00–19:00

happy girl with family entering San Diego Zoo

Best time to visit the San Diego Zoo

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, are quieter and provide a more relaxed experience. Weekends are busier with larger crowds, so it’s best to arrive early if visiting on Saturdays or Sundays.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Peak season vs low season

Peak season includes summer months (June-August) and holidays, when the Zoo is bustling with tourists and families on vacation. The low season (September-February) offers fewer crowds, shorter lines, and cooler weather, making it an ideal time for a more relaxed visit.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at the San Diego Zoo

A visit to the San Diego Zoo can take anywhere from a half-day to a full day, depending on how much you want to explore. If you're short on time, plan for at least 4 to 6 hours to see some of the major exhibits like the Africa Rocks, Elephant Odyssey, and Lost Forest, along with a guided bus tour and a ride on the Skyfari aerial tram. This will give you a good overview of the zoo's layout and the highlights without feeling rushed.

For a more immersive experience, we recommend a full day visit (6 to 8 hours). This allows you to take in more animal presentations and educational talks. Plus, with 12,000 animals across 100 acres, it’s easy to fill an entire day exploring all the diverse habitats and exhibits the zoo has to offer. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and take advantage of the hop-on, hop-off Kangaroo Bus to save some walking energy.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo’s operating hours

What times are best for avoiding crowds at the San Diego Zoo?

Early weekdays are typically less crowded. Visiting right at opening time or later in the afternoon around 3pm can also help you avoid peak crowd times.

Can I see all the major parts of the zoo in half a day?

Yes, it's possible to see the major highlights in about 4 hours if you plan your route efficiently and use the zoo’s bus tours and aerial tram to navigate the large area more quickly.

What time should I arrive to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding large crowds, especially if you arrive right at opening time.

Can I leave and re-enter the zoo on the same day?

Re-entry is allowed as long as you have your original admission ticket. Make sure to get a hand stamp when you exit, so you can return later in the day.

What time do animal shows and keeper talks typically start?

Animal shows and keeper talks usually take place between noon and 3pm daily. The ‘Africa Rocks Encounter’ kicks off at 12pm at the Africa Rocks Stage, while the ‘Wildlife Wonders’ presentation happens at 3pm at the Wegeforth Bowl.

Is the zoo open during bad weather?

The zoo remains open in most weather conditions, but some exhibits may close during extreme weather for safety.

Are there any exclusive after-hours events at the San Diego Zoo?

Yes, the zoo offers special events during certain periods, like evening hours in the summer. These events may have separate ticketing, so check the event calendar.