San Diego Zoo

    Okapis eat leaves at the San Diego Zoo.

    San Diego Zoo Animals and Attractions: The Must-See List

    A local member’s guide to the best San Diego Zoo animals and attractions, from giant pandas and polar bears to koalas, gorillas, and more. Includes tips, viewing advice, and discounted tickets.

    What to know about San Diego Zoo restaurants and food policies given that it's open but with limited operations (and my favorite desserts to look out for).

    Where to Eat at the San Diego Zoo: Restaurants, Snacks & Drinks Guide (2026)

    My guide walks you through the Zoo’s dining options from sit-down spots and snack stands with Instagrammable desserts to where to find a drink or coffee along the way.

    The famous pool at Lafayette Hotel in San Diego.

    10 Best Hotels Near San Diego Zoo: Luxury To Budget (2026)

    My list of best hotels near San Diego Zoo includes options organized by neighborhood and proximity, from the closest hotels to the Zoo to family resorts with waterslides in Mission Valley.

    Member insight for how to decide if the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park is better to visit when you can't see both on the same vacation and other insider tips.

    San Diego Zoo vs. San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Which Is Better to Visit?

    I’m a member of and frequent visitor to both parks. I’ll share how to decide if the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park is best to visit when you can’t see both on the same vacation plus other insider tips.

    The entrance to the San Diego Zoo.

    San Diego Zoo for Kids and Toddlers: Things to Do and Tips From a (Mom) Member

    I’m a member and a mom with many tips for maximizing a day at San Diego Zoo for kids and toddlers while keeping parents sane and seeing the popular animals.

    An elephant eats plants near a pond in its enclosure at San Diego Zoo.

    San Diego Zoo Tours: Which Upgraded Experience Is Worth Your Money?

    San Diego Zoo tours take guests behind the scenes to keeper-only areas and allow up-close interaction with animals via VIP and other special experiences.

    Best tips for visiting San Diego Zoo from a local

    15 Insider San Diego Zoo Tips From a Long-Time Member

    How to maximize your visit to the San Diego Zoo including tips for getting around the park, avoiding crowds, buying tickets and more.

    The Botanical Building in San Diego's Balboa Park

    Can You See Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo on the Same Day?

    Yes, it is possible to see both of San Diego’s best attractions (Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo) on the same day. Here’s how.