Get To Know The World Famous San Diego Zoo
See What the Animals are Up To
One of the finest in the world, the San Diego Zoo is a first-class experience. Home to one of the few Giant Panda exhibits the United States, the Zoo takes up 100 acres in Balboa Park. There are over 4,000 animals representing more than 800 species. Some exhibits include exciting interactive experiences! There are 10 restaurants plus snack kiosks, so you certainly won't go hungry. Since we are a hotel near the San Diego Zoo, you and your family can spend all day-or two-exploring this fun and educational San Diego destination.
Know Before You Go
SPECIAL EXPERIENCES
There are so many cool animal exhibits at the San Diego Zoo! Divided up into Animal Zones, visitors get a sense what sorts of creatures live on different areas of the planet, from Asia to Australia. By far, the most popular place to go is Panda Canyon, home to Chinese giant pandas, which are rare residents of U.S. zoos. Other great stops on your Zoo tour include Elephant Odyssey, the Lost Forest Gorillas, and the Children’s Zoo in Discovery Outpost.
BALBOA PARK
The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, the country’s largest urban park that’s full of cultural destinations. In addition to the Zoo, there are 15 museums, performing arts venues, and gardens in the Park. The Visitor Center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day, and is a good place to get started. Kids will love the Park’s Miniature Railroad and the Carousel. San Diegans spend their days playing in the Park’s playgrounds, tennis courts, and activity center, as well as exploring its hiking and biking trails. There are also lots of dining options in Balboa Park.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
TICKET PRICES
View ticketing & the cost of admission.
MAP OF THE ZOO
View a map of the Zoo.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
It’s always a good idea to wear a hat and sunglasses in San Diego, especially if you’re mostly going to be outside all day as you will be at the Zoo. Apply sunscreen before you arrive and bring more to freshen up throughout the day. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the Zoo grounds can be hilly. Visitors may carry backpacks and bring their own food-although no coolers, glass containers, alcohol, or straws are allowed. Straws, you say? Yes-sometimes animals get a hold of them, think they’re food, and get sick trying to digest them.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT?
The Zoo is most busy on weekends, especially during the summer and holidays. If you can, try to get there early and visit during weekdays. Avoid delaying your experience by buying tickets online or at our front desk. Check the schedule in advance for special Zoo events like the Dr. Zoolittle Show and Camp Critters. As always, arrive well before the shows start to claim a good seat. To get a unique view of the Zoo, ride the Skyfari aerial tram or take a guided bus tour.
EVENTS
- Nighttime Zoo (Summer Only)
- Zoo Summer Camp
- Early Morning Cheetah Experience
- Albert's Sunday Brunch
- Discovery Cart Tour
ACTIVITIES
- Animal Exhibits
- Play Areas
- Skyfari Aerial Tram
- 4D Theatre
- Guided Bus Tour
- Botanical Tours
- Balboa Park Miniature Train