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I am a longtime San Diego Zoo member, so this guide collects my best tips for must-see exhibits, getting around, where to eat, and how to buy tickets. It is our most popular attraction, at the top of my list of things to do in San Diego with kids, and a world-class facility that has helped save endangered species worldwide.
Here you'll find everything you need to know before visiting. And don't forget that I have the best price on tickets.
Save on tickets
Use promo code lajollamom for $8 off 1-Day tickets through my ticket site powered by aRes Travel, an authorized San Diego Zoo ticket seller.
Your final price: $70/adult and $60/kids (ages 3-11)
Zoo MemberI (Katie Dillon) am a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Member and my family is involved in supporting their initiatives.
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The basics
San Diego Zoo opened in 1916 and is home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 800 species. The exhibits across 100 acres are designed around habitats so that animals who'd share a wild range share an enclosure.
What to see
Beyond the kangaroos, Galapagos tortoises, rhinos, giraffes, African penguins, and baboons, my favorite exhibits and experiences include:
Where to eat
We take advantage of table service at Albert's Restaurant in the Lost Forest, a quieter stop for a good fish taco, craft cocktail or glass of wine, and even brunch.
For something faster, Sabertooth Cafe in Elephant Odyssey has carne asada burritos and salads, and San Diego Craft Beer and Margaritas is good for a local beer to walk the park with.
As a sweets lover, I always stop for soft serve at Hua Mei Cones in Asian Passage. Stay up to date on San Diego Zoo restaurants.
The essentials
Hours
Open 365 days a year. Check the schedule for seasonal hours before you go.
Address
San Diego, CA 92101. Located in Balboa Park.
Parking
$8 for non-member City of San Diego residents. Arrive before 10 a.m. on weekends for the closest spaces.
Getting there
Most people drive or take rideshare. Public transportation works but it is a grind.
Plan ahead
A short version of my full tips for visiting the San Diego Zoo.
Mornings, in any season. The animals are most active before lunch and can sleep or seek shade in the afternoon. Peak attendance runs midmorning through lunch. Tuesday through Thursday tends to be quieter.
Combine attractions
My discount is the best deal for 1-Day tickets. If you are visiting more than one attraction, a sightseeing pass may save more.
GOSDO5LJM.GOLA5LJM.SAVEMORE.Sightseeing pass purchases redirect to the partner site (Go City or CityPASS), not to my ticket site. Promo codes apply at the partner's checkout.
From home
Get excited before your trip or stay connected after via the Zoo's live cams on the hippo, baboon, polar bear, ape, koala, and a panda archive. There are more cams at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Stay nearby
I have written extensively about hotels near San Diego Zoo. Most people stay in downtown San Diego. My favorites:
A weekday morning in spring or fall is ideal, when crowds are lightest and animals are most active. But any day works if you know what to expect.
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Everything you need to know about Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo, including 2026-2027 dates, entertainment, holiday lights, food, parking, and tips from a local Zoo member.
Here’s a guide on the San Diego Zoo food policy, bag rules, pet restrictions, and camera tips. Know what’s allowed, and how to make the most of your visit!
Learn more about the San Diego Zoo panda program including why it’s important, why the pandas left, and how to see the pandas who just arrived.
San Diego Zoo goes all out during the summer Nighttime Zoo event with extra live entertainment. Here’s what to expect and tips for structuring your visit.
Costco doesn’t sell San Diego Zoo tickets, but Costco.com now sells a Safari Park one-day pass. Here’s what it includes and how the price compares without a membership.
Learn whether SeaWorld San Diego or San Diego Zoo is the best for your vacation if you can only choose one theme park. I have memberships to both.
