4.6 (11,501 Reviews)

San Diego Zoo Tickets

2920 Zoo Dr • San Diego, CA 92101
View on Map
A child wearing a red shirt and denim overalls with patches plays on a tree structure with other children around.
San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California
Centennial Plaza Cake Stage 3 - Centennial Celebration - San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California
A smiling woman and man enjoy a ride on an open cable car, with trees and distant buildings in the background.
View Gallery
Starting at
$74.00
Total Price: $74.00 (USD)
Book Now
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

San Diego Zoo Ticket Prices

Give the Gift of Travel

Purchase Gift Certificates for family and friends!

Shop Now
Give the Gift of Travel
San Diego Zoo - San Diego, CA Logo
Authorized Reseller
Free Changes & Cancellations
See details upon selection.
Details
Reviews
Map
FAQs
Select Tickets

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. Purchase your San Diego Zoo tickets today!

1 or more people

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 free in the zoo's front lot, with additional free parking is available throughout Balboa Park.
  • Take advantage of the open-air double-decker bus tours, which are 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.
Read More

Discover More With Us

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!

View my photos

Description

Discover the San Diego Zoo, a must-visit attraction in Southern California. Nestled in the heart of Balboa Park, this world-renowned zoo spans over 100 acres and is home to over 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.

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

Ready for an adventure? Plan your visit to the San Diego Zoo today and embark on a journey through the animal kingdom. Purchase your San Diego Zoo tickets now and create unforgettable memories with family and friends!




Read More
Tripster YouTube Video
Tripster YouTube Video Overlay
Promotional Images (55)
San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California Arusha and Anna_ Era 1980s - 1990s - Centennial Celebration San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California - Centennial Celebration - San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California Karen_ Era 1990s - present - Centennial Celebration - San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California King Tut_ Era 1920s - 1990s - Centennial Celebration - San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California
Photos from our Staff (4)
San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Diana Kersh San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Diana Kersh San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Diana Kersh San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Diana Kersh
Customer Photos (731)
San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Peace Geiss San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Peace Geiss San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Peace Geiss San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Christal Saunders San Diego Zoo photo submitted by Christal Saunders
Back to Top

San Diego Zoo Reviews

749 Reviews
Write a Review
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!
Read More
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.

Was this review helpful? Yes

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
Read More

Was this review helpful? Yes

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.
Read More
Tip: We spent a half day only and were able to see all the exhibits. Beautiful!

Was this review helpful? Yes

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
Read More
Tip: It is a lot of walking, so worth it.

Was this review helpful? Yes

Tripster User Profile Image
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.
Read More
Tip: Expected more animals. Very steep walkways.

Was this review helpful? Yes

Tripster User Profile Image
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!
Read More
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.

Was this review helpful? Yes

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.
Read More
Tip: Take the bus tour first to get oriented, then go back to areas to visit in detail.

Was this review helpful? Yes

Jeff Hardy Tripster User Profile Image
Jeff Hardy
Novato, CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Just as good with my granddaughter as it was for my grandfather’s grandson!"
July 2022
Sometimes same old same old is as good as it gets!
Read More
Tip: Make sure the kiddies get a good night sleep before you get to the zoo when it opens

Was this review helpful? Yes

Show more reviews   
Back to Top
Star Map Pin Icon
San Diego Zoo is located at 2920 Zoo Dr • San Diego, CA 92101
Attraction Map Pin IconAttractions Hotel Map Pin IconHotels & Lodging

Nearby Things to Do


Nearby Hotels & Lodging


Back to Top

Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Zoo

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

Yes, the Zoo offers a variety of options to assist you and your family. In addition, there are complimentary shuttles to assist you and your party in accessing the lower canyon areas. Please stop in at Guest Services to request an ADA Packet, which includes information on these services, as well as descriptions of habitats and show access.

Does the Zoo offer wheelchair rentals?

Manual wheelchairs and ECVs (Electronic Conveyance Vehicles) are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance. Rental prices are $16 for a manual wheelchair and $60 for an ECV. Availability and prices subject to change without notice. You are welcome to bring your own wheelchair or ECV. Rental ECVs cannot be accommodated on Zoo shuttles or Africa Tram.

Does the San Diego Zoo have stroller rentals?

Yes. The Zoo and Safari Park have strollers available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Rentals prices are $16 for a single stroller and $20 for a double stroller.

Does the San Diego Zoo have lockers for guests to use?

Outdoor lockers are available at Safari Park. At the Zoo, self-service lockers are available at Front Street (please note this does not include luggage check). Guests may carry small backpacks and bags into the parks.

How much is parking at San Diego Zoo and Safari Park?

The San Diego Zoo has free parking. The parking lot in front of the Zoo is owned and operated by the City of San Diego and is used by guests, volunteers and employees of Balboa Park. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park parking lot is privately owned and has a parking fee.

Is it possible to leave the Zoo and re-enter on the same day?

Yes! For same-day re-entry, guests should have their hands stamped at the exit, and re-enter through the main turnstiles, showing their tickets and hand stamps.

What time of day will I see more animals?

There really isn't any special time that more wildlife are in view, although many of the Zoo's animals are early risers and may be a bit more active in the morning. Out of concern for the many endangered species housed at the facilities, the San Diego Zoo built habitats that mimic natural environments. Like natural environments, these areas give the animals plenty of room to hide, which is important to the well-being of many species.

Are pets allowed in the parks?

No. Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not permitted at the Zoo or Safari Park. Because they house significant populations of rare and endangered species, both the Zoo and the Safari Park are considered to be quarantined facilities. State and federal regulations for such facilities do not allow for the access of pets, comfort animals, or emotional support animals accompanying guests to these facilities.

Can I bring food into the parks?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own single-person food, in small containers, into both parks. No coolers, glass containers, alcohol, party trays, birthday cakes, or decorations are allowed on grounds, and no facilities are available for food storage. For the safety of guests and the wildlife in their care, please do not bring glass, alcohol, or straws into the parks.

Are backpacks allowed?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a backpack in the parks.

What is the smoking policy at the Zoo?

Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted anywhere on Zoo or Safari Park grounds or parking lots. Zoo guests who wish to smoke are welcome to have their hands stamped for same-day re-entry when leaving the grounds to smoke. Please keep your ticket!

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

Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult age 18+ to enter and throughout their visits to the parks.

Do I need to wear a facial covering to take a tour or Safari?

Facial coverings are not required. However, due to the proximity of wildlife, some tours and safaris may require guests ages 2 and older to wear a facial covering during a portion of the experience.

Back to Top
Customer Support

Customer Support

Useful Links

Useful Links

Our Company

Our Company

Our Partners

Our Partners

Call and Book

Call and Book Your Next Trip Today!

We accept a variety of payment methods for your convenience:

Trustpilot
Visa Logo
Mastercard Logo
American Express Logo
Discover Logo
Copyright © 2001-2024 Tripster. All Rights Reserved. Use of this website constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.