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San Diego Zoo Tickets

2920 Zoo Dr • San Diego, CA 92101
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A giant panda sits on a rocky surface holding bamboo stalks, surrounded by green grass and foliage.
A gorilla is holding and examining a leafy green vegetable, possibly lettuce, with a neutral expression in an outdoor setting.
Smiling young girl in overalls climbs a tree structure while other children play nearby under a sunshade.
A group of flamingos stands and wades in a shallow, greenish pond surrounded by lush vegetation and rocks.
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About San Diego Zoo

Overview

Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. Spanning over 100 acres, it’s home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals representing 680 species. Discover lush habitats, immersive exhibits, and thrilling attractions like the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.

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Good To Know

  • One of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres and is home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals.
  • San Diego's weather can vary, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated.
  • The zoo offers several dining options, including cafes and snack stands. Consider bringing a refillable water bottle.
  • Parking is first-come, first-served and subject to daily fees.
  • Take advantage of the open-air double-decker bus tours, included in your San Diego Zoo ticket price.
  • Expect wait times during busy periods.
  • The zoo is accessible, though some areas may have inclines. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent on a first-come, first served basis.
  • Self-service lockers are available on Front Street (luggage check is not included).
  • Open 365 days a year, rain or shine.
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Insights from Tripster's own team members
Diana K. Tripster User Profile Image

Diana K.

The Skyfari provides an excellent overview of the park grounds. Plan to stay the day, and go mid-week if possible as it's less crowded. Best zoo I've visited!

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Promotional Images (66)
A double-decker tour bus with seated passengers drives through a lush, tropical area lined with tall trees and yellow flowering bushes. Three people ride in a blue cable car decorated with a painted bird, moving above trees with buildings visible in the background. A woman and a man sit next to each other on a gondola ride, smiling and enjoying the view over a tree-filled landscape on a sunny day. Two koalas, an adult and a juvenile, are perched together on a tree, with the younger koala clinging to the adult’s back. Green foliage is blurred in the background. A cheetah wearing a collar sits closely beside a golden retriever, both facing the same direction with greenery in the background.
Photos from our Staff (4)
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Customer Photos (733)
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Description

Discover the San Diego Zoo, a must-visit Southern California attraction nestled in the heart of Balboa Park. This world-renowned zoo spans over 100 acres and is home to more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals representing over 680 species and subspecies.

San Diego Zoo tickets offer the opportunity to explore lush habitats and experience up-close encounters with wildlife from around the globe. Whether you're walking through the African Rainforest or taking a guided tour on the Skyfari® Aerial Tram, every visit offers excitement and discovery.

From the towering giraffes of the Urban Jungle to the playful red pandas of the Asian Passage, every corner of the zoo is filled with incredible creatures waiting to be discovered. Explore immersive exhibits like Elephant Odyssey, the Tiger Trail, and the bustling Outback. Wander through the Lost Forest, where lush tropical landscapes transport you to the jungles of the world, and meet some of the planet's most fascinating primates, reptiles, and birds. For a bird’s-eye view, hop on the Skyfari Aerial Tram and take in panoramic views of the zoo and surrounding Balboa Park.

Encounter giant pandas at the San Diego Zoo's expanded Panda Ridge, featuring lush landscapes that take inspiration from the pandas' native habitats in Sichuan, Gansu, and Shanxi provinces. Complimentary timed tickets for Panda Ridge are available when you arrive at the zoo. Simply scan the ticket QR code located on signs throughout the zoo, select an available time, and head to the timed ticket line at Panda Ridge at your designated time. Timed tickets are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

NEW in 2026:
Expanded Seasonal Events
Limited-time celebrations, including Lunar New Year programming, bring cultural performances, themed activities, and wildlife education focused on Asian species. These events are included with admission and add variety to a standard zoo visit.

Refreshed Animal Viewing Areas
Select habitats now feature updated viewing zones and interpretive signage in 2026, making it easier to spot animals and understand their behaviors and conservation stories during peak visiting hours.

Classic Experiences, Still Included
Admission continues to include the Guided Bus Tour and Skyfari Aerial Tram, allowing you to see more of the zoo while reducing walking time across the hilly Balboa Park setting.

Open Year-Round With Flexible Visits
The San Diego Zoo remains open every day of the year, making it easy to fit a visit into any 2026 San Diego itinerary, whether traveling during school breaks, holidays, or off-peak weekdays.

Perfect for families and animal lovers alike, the San Diego Zoo combines education, conservation, and adventure into one unforgettable experience.




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San Diego Zoo Reviews

750 Reviews
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David Tao Tripster User Profile Image
David Tao
Franklin, TN
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Big and beautiful"
November 2025
My wife and I visited the SD Zoo for the first time and it met our high expectation. Unlike our previous visits to some zoos, we had good close vies of most of the animals we wanted to see. We especially loved the leopard, Pandas, koalas, and giraffes. The tram ride was thorough and well-narrated, allowing us to appreciate some parts of the zoo that we didn't have time to walk to. The fact that the zoo is also a great botanical garden was an unexpected pleasure. We went on Monday, November 3, when attendance was fairly low, which made things much more pleasant than if it had been hot and crowded. We also appreciated getting a slight discount through Tripster
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Tip: You get a discount as a Tripster member rather than a guest. Try to go on less crowded days.

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Angie Jansen Tripster User Profile Image
Angie Jansen
CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Best zoo experience!"
July 2024
Wow, we had no idea how amazing the San Diego zoo would be. The animals, but also all the tailored nature spaces for each habitat, was unique and special. We enjoyed having access to all the areas, being that they are so spread out, by use of the shuttles and skyfari. We wish we could of spent more time!
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Tip: Check the map and plan before you go. Start with the shuttle to get a good overview of the whole park, then go back to the areas you'd like to explore more.

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Peace Geiss Tripster User Profile Image
Peace Geiss
San Diego , CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Wonderful"
July 2024
Had a great time all the wonderful staff to show and explain to us certain places on the map at the zoo
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Lanette Hanson Tripster User Profile Image
Lanette Hanson
Draper , UT
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Huge zoo"
April 2024
My two boys and I spent a half day at the zoo. It is huge. Luckily there are kangaroo shuttles where you can hop and off at your leisure. They come every few minutes. We also took the tour bus and our guide/driver was excellent. His name was Jet. He was dynamic and funny. I recommend the tour just to relax and listen to information you may not otherwise hear. The enclosures are very natural and we enjoyed all the exhibits. Tripster vouchers saved us money and work just like any pass at entrance.
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Tip: We spent a half day only and were able to see all the exhibits. Beautiful!

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Christal Saunders Tripster User Profile Image
Christal Saunders
San Manuel, AZ
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Always wanted to the san Diego zoo"
September 2023
The best part is when we got to the polar bears right at feeding time so all 3 came out to eat. The tiger was amazing. I love tigers so to be really right next to it and the only thing probably stopping it from attacking me is the glass between us. I loved everything about this zoo. The ani.als are very well kept and look very healthy
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Tip: It is a lot of walking, so worth it.

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Tripster Customer
Rancho Cucamonga , CA
3 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Be prepared for a lot of walking!"
August 2023
Very steep walkways, I rented a scooter, never would have made it without it. A lot of the animal areas were empty , expected more animals. The bus tour was great. The guides around the zoo were excellent, very friendly and eager to help.
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Tip: Expected more animals. Very steep walkways.

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Tripster Customer
Van Nuys, CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"So much to see!"
August 2023
I took my kids on a weekend summer vacation with Tripster and included the San Diego zoo! My kids are 8 years old, and they had a blast! They saw and learned about many animals. The guided bus tour inside the zoo was included, was informational, and gave us an a nice rest from walking and the heat. We had a great time!
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Tip: There is a lot of walking, west comfortable shoes and bring food with you or expect to spend quite a bit of money for food and beverages.

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Ermine Dieckman Tripster User Profile Image
Ermine Dieckman
Franklin, TX
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Great experience!"
July 2023
I have been coming here since I was a little girl. Now I’m 70! It gets better every time. So much to see and do.
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Tip: Take the bus tour first to get oriented, then go back to areas to visit in detail.

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San Diego Zoo is located at 2920 Zoo Dr • San Diego, CA 92101
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Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Zoo

Does the San Diego Zoo have access for guests with disabilities?

Yes. The San Diego Zoo provides a variety of accessibility services, including ADA resources and complimentary shuttle assistance to certain areas. Stop by Guest Services to request an ADA packet with detailed information about mobility support, habitat access, and show seating.

Can you rent a wheelchair or ECV at the San Diego Zoo?

Yes. Manual wheelchairs are available for $16, and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are available for $60. Rentals are offered near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. You are also welcome to bring your own mobility device if preferred. Rental ECVs cannot be accommodated on zoo shuttles or the Africa Tram. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Does the San Diego Zoo have stroller rentals?

Yes. Single strollers are available for $16, and double strollers are available for $20. Rentals are offered near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. You are welcome to bring your own stroller during your visit. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Are lockers available at the San Diego Zoo?

Yes. At the San Diego Zoo, self-service lockers are located near the Front Street area for small personal items. At the Safari Park, outdoor lockers are available for guest use. Lockers are intended for small items and do not replace luggage storage services.

Can luggage or car seats be stored at the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park?

Yes. At the San Diego Zoo, luggage storage is available for a fee: $10 for small items, $12 for medium items, and $15 for large items. Car seats may also be stored. At the Safari Park, luggage storage is available for $15 for the first five items, plus $15 for each additional item, including car seats. Same-day storage only. Storage rates and availability are subject to change.

How much is parking at San Diego Zoo?

Parking at the San Diego Zoo costs $16 per vehicle per day for cars and motorcycles, and $44 per day for oversized vehicles. Parking is first-come, first-served and managed by ACE Parking. Additional paid parking is available throughout Balboa Park.

Can you leave and re-enter the San Diego Zoo on the same day?

Yes. Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp obtained before exiting. Keep the original ticket and return through the main entrance turnstiles.

What is the best time to see animals at the San Diego Zoo?

There is no guaranteed best time, as animal activity varies throughout the day. Many animals are more active in the morning, especially during warmer weather. Habitats are designed to mirror natural environments, allowing animals space to rest or move out of view as needed. Daily changes or temporary habitat closures may occur, and a daily listing is available at the main entrance.

Are pets allowed in San Diego Zoo or Safari Park?

No. Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not permitted. Due to the presence of rare and endangered wildlife, only trained service animals that meet ADA guidelines are allowed.

Can food be brought into the San Diego Zoo?

Yes. Small, single-serving food items in non-glass containers are permitted. Large coolers, alcohol, glass containers, party trays, and decorations are not allowed.

Are backpacks allowed inside the San Diego Zoo?

Yes. Backpacks and small personal bags are permitted during the visit.

What is the smoking policy at the San Diego Zoo?

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere inside the zoo or parking areas. Guests who leave the grounds to smoke may return the same day with a hand stamp and valid ticket.

Can my child enter the San Diego Zoo without an adult?

Children 15 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult age 18 or older at all times during the visit.

Are face coverings required for tours or safaris?

Some tour stops or indoor locations may require face coverings to help protect wildlife. When required, masks are typically provided at those locations.

Is the San Diego Zoo good for families with kids?

Yes. Stroller-friendly pathways, interactive exhibits, and open spaces for breaks make it one of San Diego's most family-friendly attractions.

Is the Skyfari Tram always operating?

The Skyfari Aerial Tram typically operates daily, offering an aerial shortcut across the zoo with views of Balboa Park. Operations may pause due to weather, maintenance, capacity limits, or special events, so checking the daily schedule upon arrival is recommended.

Can you bring a stroller on the Skyfari Aerial Tram?

Yes. Folded strollers are permitted on the Skyfari Aerial Tram as long as they do not exceed 23 inches at their widest point. Stroller size is assessed prior to boarding at each station. Stroller parking is also available near both Skyfari East and Skyfari West stations.

Is the San Diego Zoo open year-round?

Yes. The San Diego Zoo is open year-round, rain or shine, including all holidays. Closing times vary by season.

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