San Diego Zoo

Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

With hundreds of interesting animals, beautiful botanical displays and one-of-a-kind animal experiences, it’s a stop not to be missed on your tour of San Diego. Check out the Zoo’s website for detailed information, maps, live animal cams and more.

Toucan at San Diego zoo

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre facility located in Balboa Park near San Diego downtown. It’s one of the city’s best attractions, thanks to its diverse, naturalistic environments, and more than 3,700 endangered and exotic animals. If you’d like to get your bearings before your trip, take a 35-minute Guided Bus Tour. The Express Bus service may help visitors get to various sites quickly. Take a ride on the Aerial Sky Tram for stunning views of the Zoo and Balboa Park from above. A one-way ticket costs $50 and is valid for three to four hours.

Koala at San Diego zoo

Lions, Tiger, and Bears

The Zoo Zones reflect the animals’ natural habitats, with Australian Outback, Africa Rocks, Asian Passage, Urban Jungle, Northern Frontier, Elephant Odyssey, Discovery Outpost, and Panda Canyon being the most popular. The park’s rare giant pandas, cuddly looking koalas, varied reptiles, and other intriguing species are available for viewing. The Zoo may be viewed from many angles owing to its wide variety of species (over 660) and exquisite floral garden collection. For the most personal animal experience, explore pathways, aviaries, and bioclimatic zones.

San Diego Zoo Penguins

FAQ

How many days do you need at San Diego Zoo?
If you truly want to see it all, it’s tough to see it all in one day. With 4,000+ animals and 650 different species and subspecies, 2 days is best to really take it all in and enjoy the experience.

Is there free parking at the Zoo?
Yes, both parking and wi-fi is free at the Zoo.

How far is downtown San Diego from the San Diego Zoo?
The downtown center is roughly 2 miles from the zoo.

How far is San Diego Zoo from the beach?
Ocean Beach is the closest beach to the zoo and it’s about 8.5 miles away from the San Diego Zoo.

How far is Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa from the San Diego Zoo?
Estancia La Jolla is about 20 minutes away from the San Diego Zoo by car.

When is the Zoo open?
The San Diego Zoo is open all year, rain or shine and on all holidays.