Is San Diego Zoo parking first-come, first-served?

Yes. Parking in the Zoo's main lot is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is useful during busy periods.

Does the San Diego Zoo have accessible parking?

Yes. Designated accessible parking spaces are available near the Zoo entrance for visitors with valid disability parking identification.

Can I park overnight at the San Diego Zoo?

No. The Zoo's parking areas are intended for visitors during operating hours and are not designed for overnight parking.

What can I do if the Zoo parking lot is full?

You can look for parking in nearby Balboa Park lots and walk or use available shuttle services to reach the Zoo. Public transportation and rideshare are also alternatives.

How early should I arrive to get parking at the San Diego Zoo?

Arriving around opening time is a good strategy on weekends, holidays, and other busy days. The main lot fills on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I park at Balboa Park and walk to the Zoo?

Yes. Several Balboa Park parking areas are within walking distance of the Zoo, although the exact walking time depends on the lot you choose.

Parking at the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo offers free parking in a large lot directly across from the Zoo entrance, making it convenient to arrive by car. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with accessible spaces and designated areas for larger vehicles. During busy periods, arrive early to improve your chances of finding a spot close to the entrance.

Parking options in and around the San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo general parking

The main parking lot sits directly in front of the Zoo entrance, making it the most convenient option for a full-day visit. Parking is first-come, first-served.Intro para

Price: $16/day; $44/day for oversized vehicles
Distance: Near the Zoo entrance (0.3 miles)
Ideal for: Most visitors driving to the Zoo

San Diego Zoo ADA parking

Designated accessible parking is available close to the Zoo entrance for guests with disabilities. Note that the Zoo charges its standard parking fee even for vehicles displaying an ADA placard or authorized plate.

Price: $16/day
Distance: Near the Zoo entrance (0.2 miles)
Ideal for: Guests with mobility requirements

5th Avenue Parking

Located at Park Boulevard and Presidents Way in Balboa Park, this lot provides an alternative to the Zoo's main lot. On select days, the Zoo operates a complimentary shuttle from Inspiration Point directly to the Zoo entrance.

Price: $10/day for non-residents (subject to change)
Distance: About a 20-minute walk from the Zoo (1 mile)
Ideal for: Visitors looking for alternative parking

Bea Evenson Parking Lot

This Balboa Park lot provides another off-site option within walking distance of the Zoo area. It can be useful when the Zoo's main parking lot is busy, although parking fees and enforcement follow the City's Balboa Park rules.

Price: $10/day for nonresidents
Distance: About a 7-minute walk from the Zoo (0.3 miles)
Ideal for: Visitors comfortable with a short walk

Please note: Balboa Park parking rates are currently in effect through December 31, 2026; the City has announced that paid parking will be removed from Balboa Park starting January 1, 2027.

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Alternative ways to reach San Diego Zoo

Rapid 215 and Route 7 provide direct public-transit connections to the San Diego Zoo from downtown and central San Diego, with both routes stopping at or near the Zoo. Service runs frequently, making the bus a practical option if you are staying downtown or connecting from the Trolley.

Price: MTS fare applies
Distance: Stops outside the Zoo entrance (0.4 miles)
Ideal for: Visitors using public transportation from downtown

The Old Town Trolley has a dedicated Balboa Park/Zoo stop (Stop 10), making it convenient if you are using the hop-on hop-off sightseeing service. The stop is in Balboa Park, with the Zoo entrance about a 10-minute walk away.

Price: Around $48, depending on the ticket
Distance: About a 15-minute walk from the stop (0.7 miles)
Ideal for: Sightseeing visitors combining the Zoo with other San Diego attractions

Taxis and rideshare services can drop you near the Zoo entrance, offering direct door-to-door transport without needing to navigate public-transit connections. The Zoo notes that a taxi or rideshare from San Diego International Airport takes about 11 minutes under typical conditions.

Price: Varies depending on pickup point and demand
Distance: Direct to the Zoo entrance
Ideal for: Families, groups, and visitors carrying luggage

The San Diego Zoo sits in Balboa Park just north of downtown, so walking can work well if you're staying nearby. Routes through the park also let you combine your walk with Balboa Park's gardens, museums, and other attractions.

Price: Free
Distance: Varies by starting point
Ideal for: Visitors staying near Balboa Park or downtown who prefer walking

San Diego Zoo parking options at a glance

Parking	Price	Distance	Ideal for
San Diego Zoo general parking	$16/day; $44/day for oversized vehicles	Near Zoo entrance · 0.3 miles	Most visitors driving to the Zoo
San Diego Zoo ADA parking	$16/day	Near Zoo entrance · 0.2 miles	Guests with mobility requirements
5th Avenue Parking	$10/day for non-residents	About 20-minute walk · 1 mile	Visitors looking for alternative parking
Bea Evenson Parking Lot	$10/day for non-residents	About 7-minute walk · 0.3 miles	Visitors comfortable with a short walk

Parking and visitor tips at the San Diego Zoo

Arrive early: The Zoo's main parking lot is first-come, first-served, so arriving earlier gives you more choice of spaces, especially on weekends and holidays.
Use the main lot for convenience: The Zoo's parking area is directly across from the entrance, making it the simplest option if you want to minimize walking.
Check accessible spaces: Designated accessible parking is available near the Zoo entrance for guests with valid disability parking identification.
Consider Balboa Park lots: If the main lot is full, nearby Balboa Park parking areas can provide alternatives, although you may have a longer walk or need to use a shuttle.
Allow extra time: Factor in time to park, walk to the entrance, and complete entry procedures before your planned first activity or tour.
Check vehicle restrictions: Oversized vehicles may have different parking arrangements or fees, so check the Zoo's current parking information before arriving.
Keep your parking location handy: Note your lot and section when you park so you can find your vehicle easily after a full day at the Zoo.
Plan around peak periods: Weekends, holidays, and school breaks can be particularly busy, making early arrival or public transportation worth considering.

Frequently asked questions about parking at the San Diego Zoo

The main parking lot is directly across from the Zoo's entrance on Park Boulevard, making it convenient for reaching the entrance on foot.

Parking at the San Diego Zoo