San Diego Zoo is famous for many things at the same time. From the first cageless exhibit of animals in the zoo to the first-ever YouTube video was filmed here. For more than 100 years, the San Diego Zoo works hard to maintain its reputation as one of the world's best zoos.
Over four million visitors a year come to the San Diego Zoo to observe more than 3,500 animals with no barriers between them. The open-air territory is separated into zones like Asian Passage, Africa Rocks, Discovery outpost, Elephant Oddisey, Lost Forest, Northers frontier, Outback, and Urban Jungle. Their superstars are koalas, reptiles, African elephants, orangutans, and many others. An aerial tram, bus tour, shops, theater, play areas, and restaurants are also available if you need to take a break.
Although San Diego Zoo is open year-round, there are special events each season. Wintertime is known for The Jungle Bells and Wild Holidays celebration. It involves a unique program and lightning decorations throughout the holiday season. As spring arrives, it's time to see more than 30 species of butterflies and 22 species of birds at the Butterflie Jungle Exhibition. Summer brings kids summer camps, the Summer Safari program, and the Nighttime Zoo. The autumn season's highlight is HalGLOWeen in October, with parties, acrobats, and spooky performances. The busiest hours are from 11 am until 2 pm. Thus, it's recommended to choose early visiting times to avoid the lines and be able to explore all the area.
The zoo is open from 9 am until 5 pm every day of the year, even on holidays. The one-day pass price is $60 for adults and $50 for children under the age of 11. Children under three can visit for free. There, you can also get three-day passes, annual passes, and Zoo club memberships.
Practical info
What types of animals can visitors observe at San Diego Zoo?
With over 3,500 animals, San Diego Zoo boasts a diverse collection of creatures from around the world, including koalas, a variety of elephant species, reptiles, lions, tigers, bears, primates, and many more. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these animals freely roaming around their habitats at the zoo. Show more
What are the zones available in San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Zoo is divided into several habitats areas, including the African-themed Elephant Odyssey, the Australian-themed Outback, the Northern Frontier, Urban Jungle, the Lost Forest, the Asia-themed Asian Passage, and the recently-opened Africa Rocks. Visitors can explore all of these zones on a tour of the zoo, with each habitat exhibit featuring animals specific to its region, providing guests with a unique and immersive experience. Show more
When is the best time to visit San Diego Zoo to attend special events?
San Diego Zoo offers special events throughout the year, making it an attractive destination no matter the season. In spring, visitors can experience the Butterflie Jungle Exhibition, while summer features the Summer Safari program, night zoo visits, and summer camps for kids. Halloween events add spookiness to the autumn season, while December offers holiday celebrations such as the Jungle Bells and Wild Holidays. With something for everyone, San Diego Zoo is an all-year-round-attraction for visitors to enjoy. Show more
Where can visitors take a break at San Diego Zoo?
After exploring the zoo's many habitats and animal exhibits, visitors can choose from several dining options available at San Diego Zoo. These include Albert's Restaurant, Ground-level Soft Serve, Manila Market, Front Street Cafe, and Sabertooth Grill, all of which offer a variety of food options and comfortable seating areas for visitors to take a break, relax, and refuel for their next adventure. Show more
How much does a one-day pass cost for adults and children at San Diego Zoo?
A one-day pass for an adult at San Diego Zoo costs $60, while children aged 3 to 11 years old can get a pass for $50. Children under the age of three get in for free. The pass is unrestricted and valid during the zoo's regular opening hours. There are other options for visitors such as an annual pass and the Zoo Club memberships, providing discounts and more attractions for frequent visitors. Show more
