The San Diego Zoo operates every day, including holidays, ensuring there’s always an opportunity for you to visit:
Winter hours (November through February): 9am to 5pm
Last admission: Entry closes 1 hour before the closing time.
There are several dining spots to choose from, offering something for every taste:
Don’t forget to check out the San Diego Zoo gift shops, which offer a wide range of souvenirs, from plush animals to clothing and educational books. There are various shops spread across the premises like the San Diego Zoo Kids Store, Zootique, Roar Store, and more. Proceeds help support the zoo’s conservation efforts.
The Wildlife Presentations at San Diego Zoo are held daily at key locations such as Wegeforth Bowl and the Rady Ambassador Presentation Area. These sessions last 15 to 20 minutes and introduce you to various reptiles, birds, and mammals like komodo dragons, candors, and capybaras. Specialists explain their behaviors and discuss conservation efforts.
This 4-minute train ride takes you on a half-mile loop through four scenic acres of Balboa Park, located just outside the zoo's exit. It’s operated by the zoo, with tickets priced at $4. The train is suitable for all ages, though children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Skyfari Aerial Tram is a 4-minute ride with panoramic views of the zoo and Balboa Park. It’s both a practical way to move across the zoo and an opportunity to capture photos from above.
This 35-minute narrated tour covers about 70% of the zoo, making it ideal for first-timers. It’s a comfortable way to get an overview without walking, especially useful for families or those short on time. The guides offer insights into the animals and exhibits.
At Polar Bear Plunge, you’ll get an up-close look at polar bears in their tundra-like habitat. The exhibit features large glass panels for underwater viewing, letting you see the bears swim and play.
Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is a hands-on, kid-friendly zone that replicates ecosystems like deserts and rainforests. Kids can climb, explore caves, and encounter animals like fennec foxes. This area is designed to make learning about nature fun and interactive.
The zoo features over 700,000 plants across themed gardens, designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals. You can take a self-guided botanical tour to explore the diverse plant life.
The 4D Theater combines 3D visuals with effects like wind, water, and scents, making the film come to life. Currently, films like "Voyage to the Moon" are playing. The effects are timed with the movie to give you a truly immersive experience.
Plan to spend at least 4 to 6 hours to see most of the exhibits. If you’re short on time, the guided bus tour and Skyfari tram are great ways to cover more ground quickly.
Yes, the San Diego Zoo offers free parking, but it can fill up quickly during peak times. Additional parking is available in nearby areas of Balboa Park.
Yes, you can bring small snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, but large coolers and full meals are not allowed. There are plenty of dining options inside the zoo as well.
Yes, just make sure to get a hand stamp before leaving if you plan to return later in the day.
No, pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not allowed at the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park due to the presence of rare and endangered species.
No, the Safari Park is a walk-through experience, with optional guided tours available. If you want a drive through experience of the park, you can opt for the hop-on, hop-off Kangaroo rides which covers the main areas of the park.