San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies. Not only that, but the San Diego Zoo also has a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. Get acquainted with a variety of animals, from the King of the Jungle to some of the biggest cats! Be bold and check out the reptiles, fish, and creepy-crawly insects!
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You’ll see all your classic favorites, like the Monkey Trails, Polar Bear Plunge, Scripps Aviary, Elephant Odyssey, Tiger River, and also the popular “Early Morning with Pandas” tour. All animals live in an environment remarkably similar to their native habitat. One of the best ways to enjoy the Zoo is on their 35- minute narrated tour. The tour is on a double-decker bus and covers about 70 percent of the Zoo. The zoo has an excellent planner for your day at the park.
Steele Snider
21:15 23 Oct 20
Absolutely amazing zoo. Nothing like it anywhere. Enormous facility that prides itself in the care of its animals. This... is a must see for anyone in or around the San Diego area. It is worthy even of a vacation to just see it. Definitely come here and check it out. It will definitely not disappoint.read more
Steve Elliott
22:11 21 Oct 20
Best zoo in the world. Had my first visit in over 14 years and it was great to see how things have continued to stay... fresh and updated. Great place to kill some hours. All the walkways are very scenic but bring your comfortable shoes to deal with the hills and valleys.read more
Colleen Koenig
02:20 21 Oct 20
Fantastic zoo, enjoyed walking around for a few hours among the animals as well as trees and plants. Animals seem happy... and very well taken care of. Enclosures clean, walking paths well maintained (like new!) And I was shocked how many koalas they have. How cool is that?!read more
Michael Navarro
20:40 17 Oct 20
Very great place to bring the family and help keep the zoo active. Some animals can only be seen at night time (some... nocturnal animals) but usually during the month of October and a part of December, the zoo is open late. There is a health screening before you enter the zoo, so be prepared if there is a bit of a wait, it usually goes by very quick. I would recommend, a person that is a resident of San Diego or a person that will be going to the zoo and safari park more than 2 times in a given period, it comes out a bit cheaper to get a annual pass over the course of a year. It's very nice to meet up with people that are members as well and talk about our favorite exhibits and animals we have seen.The zoo is just a great place to spend the day at and enjoy the great San Diego weather.read more
Elmont Montecalvo
00:03 10 Oct 20
Easy to spend a whole day there. Lots to see. Presented in fun ways. Love the multi-levels. Zoo itself is doing a great... job with safety protocols. Would love to come back to experience all the stuff that was closed when things get back to normal.read more
Andrew E.
01:11 09 Oct 20
San Diego Zoo is amazing. Even in these crazy times of masks and social distancing, the zoo staff makes it work and my... family enjoyed a wonderful day in the park. The park was clean and well maintained. The new exhibits were definitely a highlight of the trip. Will definitely be going again.read more
Melanie Yang
03:55 07 Oct 20
It's too pricey during the pandemic when you can't get the full experience. The rides or benefits that came with the... admission are all closed. I walked all the way to the back of the zoo to see the polar bears and they were not out. There were no more giant pandas and they should post which exhibit is not active so ppl won't waste their time going across to it to see nothing. I have a 4 yr old and I thought he was good with walking...nope. Too much walking that he was about to cry because he just couldn't walk up and down anymore and I couldn't carry him; too big. We had to cut our tour around the zoo short. We were 4 hrs into it already so I didn't want to rent a stroller anymore. There are so many paths in every which way. You will get lost without a map if it's your first time. No such thing as one route to see everything. It's hard to plan and see everything without going back and forth. Tips: give yourself lots of time, don't rush, take lots of break.read more
Alisha Rodarte
23:37 04 Oct 20
This is definitely a must see for any age. There were things that were not available because of COVID and social... distancing but you could still get on the aerial tour and they were really good about sanitizing every booth you got into before and after each person. You had to wear a mask the whole you are inside the zoo but it wasn't that bad. All the animals are out and ready for guests. You will not be disappointed and make sure you get there early because you will need the whole day to look around.read more
zachary john
04:12 28 Sep 20
In all honesty I gave it a 4 because of the whole covid situation. In general you can save yourself some time by b... purchasing your ticket from the kiosk instead of waiting in the long line. Next the staff are super helpful and interactive. Get a map for starters. If you want to see the polar bears I suggest you take the sky train up and then walk down. Over our experience here was very enjoying the animals are beautiful we had an amazing time. I recommend it to anyone who's curious about it. Check it out the kids will love it.read more
Christal Bell
05:41 25 Sep 20
The most beautiful zoo in the US. I had to buy a season pass because this zoo is so large it takes the average person... three days to see the whole park.The terrain can be challenging at times so I love that I don’t have to rush because I have the whole year to come back. The animal are so amazing and the grounds are just gorgeous. There are restaurants and pit stops along the way if I get hungry or thirsty. Restrooms are all along the paths if needed. They have electric wheelchairs for rent if you are handicapped and need assistance. They have COVID screening as you enter the park. The lines in the morning go really fast. Buy a season pass it’s so worth it!read more
Stephaniecm011
04:08 23 Sep 20
I love this place,its my favorite zoo. I love looking at all the animals. Also it is a fun place to get some exercise... in the morning, because of all the hills. (Photos from 2017)read more
Kimberly Bonnell
21:56 21 Sep 20
This is an amazing zoo. My family and I will always have great memories from our visit. The hippos were so sweet. The... mother was cuddling her young and they were up close for our viewing. The animals are well taken care of and a pleasure to seeread more
Zane Winkler
17:05 20 Sep 20
The zoo was really nice, kept very clean and people friendly for quarantine. My only complaint would be the number of... ants that are in the park.I leaned my back on a tree for about a minute while hundreds of ants swarmed my back. I didn't notice until I commented on the number of ants on my arm and one of my mates actually looked at my back and noticed the black swarm slowly consuming my body. I ended up taking off my shirt off. I have felt very self conscious, I barely take my shirt off when I shower. Because I felt slightly embarrassed I had to take off one star.read more
T T
04:51 19 Sep 20
Came in a weekday and wasn't crowded. Everybody wore mask. Even thought it was hot in summer but it was worth to see... these animals.read more
Maria Moldovan
17:29 16 Sep 20
Loved it, especially during a pandemic, the place was clean and very well organized for getting as many people as... they get daily!read more
Kathy Hebert
05:56 16 Sep 20
Wonderful baby animals right now, 2 juvenal giraffes as well as cheetahs. All the guests at the park that I saw were... very respectful as far as wearing masks.read more
Missy Karber
22:45 15 Sep 20
OH MY WORD! SO Totally awesome! SO WANT TO GO BACK! The zoo is too big to see in 1 day, unless you aren't towing a... wheelchair and an old man, then you might be able to see everything in 1 day.read more
Joe Pelletier
16:21 14 Sep 20
Difficult to enjoy in the time of COVID-19 when barely able to breathe through a mask.
Elizabeth Mariscal
02:30 14 Sep 20
With this whole pandemic going on it was so nice to take our children out for the day are girls absolutely loves the... animals it was a great experience and family outing a little overpriced I would say for the entry I've never paid that much to go to a zoo but it was worth itread more
Oanh Nonaka
23:14 12 Sep 20
Early admission with Zoo Keeper's club is the way to go! Avoiding all the crowds, the lines and the heat! Animals are... very active when it's cooler!read more
Kelsey Bittola
19:19 08 Sep 20
Bring sunscreen and an umbrella! They are very organized and have people all over directing where the line is to stand... in to wait before you go into the zoo. The line does move fast! We were in line for 15 minutes. Wear your walking shoes too! We walked 6 miles in the zoo and there are hills that you have to walk up. If you go from right to left and then up the middle then you’ll be going down hill for most of them. Overall it was a nice experience. It was a little difficult wearing the mask the entire time in the zoo but we took breaks. Spent three hours in the zoo.read more
Papii Torregano
23:43 05 Sep 20
It was exactly what I thought family friendly and exceptionally clean i must say .....if you are seizure prone like I... am or have any type of ailments that will flare up in the heat then I'd recommend waiting until it cools off....I almost passed out all day....other then that great overallread more
Jeff Phillips
22:07 05 Sep 20
They have done a nice job of keeping people safer during the pandemic. Still one of the best things to do in San Diego... with a family.read more
Kimmi Robinson
22:39 24 Aug 20
The zoo is wonderful, with almost all the animals available to observe, but not a lot of room for social distancing.... The zoo stated they are running at a "reduced capacity" but that did not appear to be the case. VERY crowded walkways and paths made it difficult to move around, and distancing impossible. We love knowing our ticket prices are helping to support the animals and jobs during this difficult time, just not a lot of opportunity for distancing during a pandemic. I will say the stores were run efficiently, and drink refills were handed to you in a separate cup to refill yourself. Workers were all pleasant and helpful!read more
Connor French
23:37 22 Aug 20
Absolutely love the San Diego zoo. I've recently moved here and it's one of my favorite places in the city. The Zoo is... still open even with the whole COVID thing you just have to wear a mask and go through a line and answer the questions before entering. I plan on coming back here again and again and definitely recommend it as one of the things to do if you visit San Diego or if you are in the area.read more
Cristina Sanchez
00:50 20 Aug 20
Very lovely zoo! The layout is great and you get to see the animals from multiple angles. Be prepared to walk a lot! We... walked over 7 miles while there. There are quite a few hills as well.The staff were very friendly and informative. We got to witness a member of staff placing a baby koala in their habitat. She was very enthusiastic and engaging. I wish I could post the video, but am unsure how. 🤦♀️They enforced the wearing of masks and keeping a distance of 6 feet or more between park guests.The overall atmosphere was charming, friendly, and personal. I highly recommend a trip to this zoo!read more
Tom L
00:10 18 Aug 20
I've been visiting for about 70 years, and I like to send friends zoo items. A friend in Florida has been working... jigsaw puzzles so I sent her the gorgeous zoo puzzle of 1,000 pieces with all the creatures. She loved it and sent it to a friend in Seattle who also enjoyed it and gave it to her friend's daughter to do. The young lady named all the animals and was so thrilled with it they're having it framed to hang on her bedroom wall. Now that's a hit!read more
Geo Stone
20:03 17 Aug 20
Zoo was great. They are doing a lot of new construction so baby area is closed. Everyone is wearing masks and keep 6ft... distance. Very humid there so take so frozen water bottles and put them in you backpack keep your back cool and it will cold water in no time!read more
Matt Gorden
02:59 16 Aug 20
The San Diego zoo was fun. Due to Corona we had to wear masks which made the experience hot and a bit uncomfortable,... however we made the most of it and walked the whole park. Some activities and exhibits were closed and maybe missed out on some stuff but honestly after 5 hours of walking, our feet were sore and we were ready to go. It was hot and some of the animals were staying out of the sun and therefore we could t see them. I don’t blame them as I did my best to find shade along the way too. I can’t say it’s the best zoo I’ve been too, but it’s still worth a stop.read more
Kaveh Hajighazi
03:54 15 Aug 20
Great zoo. Variety of animals some of which I have never seen before. The zoo is very clean and well taken care of. ... The exhibits are beautifully set. Animals can be easily seen. Ample parking. One can spend over a full day at this facility. There is a good mix of all sorts of animals. I really enjoyed watching a hippopotamus family under water. It was also my first time seeing a polar bear up close. The chimpanzees are also a must see. I was hoping to see a pack of wild dogs but I didn't get the chance.read more
Tyler Howat
23:03 12 Aug 20
Happy that the zoo is open and taking great precautions! Unfortunately, so few animals were out that it often didn’t... seem worth it. The service and amenities were well done, though.read more
Lia Maher
20:22 09 Aug 20
Great zoo! People were considerate and using masks and social distancing. Animals were playing and fun to watch. The... elephants have their own playground.read more
Simoriah Britt
12:35 08 Aug 20
Well, I was extremely disappointed to not see any pandas, or koalas. I think as a child this place could be a highlight... but as an adult I feel it was lacking in some areas. But it felt good to get out of the house and be in some beautiful scenery. The lack of their publicized animal masks also makes for my lower rating seeing as my husband and I were both excited for getting different animals and styles of masks. And they had maybe about 4 styles 2 animals and only one of those two was really a face.read more
Lark K
00:31 06 Aug 20
The zoo is beautiful, and I enjoyed the day. However, the constant reminders (signs, "enforcers," and announcements,... including street entertainers) to "make sure you're properly wearing your mask" became annoying rather quickly. I tried to be understanding because I was thankful they could be open at all, but it was definitely overkill.read more
Jack Nack
04:45 05 Aug 20
MAKE SURE TO BRING WALKING SHOE'S, UP AND DOWNS, HILLS, SLOPES, IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN OR ELDERLY BRING STROLLER AND OR... WHEELCHAIR. OF COURSE ITS A ZOO, SO ITS HARD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ANIMALS BEING INCARCERATED. PEOPLE WORE MASK, SOME KEPT THEIR DISTANCE SOME WERE TOO CLOSE. NICE PLACE, SAFARI MAY BE BETTER.read more
Erin Browder
15:03 01 Aug 20
So thrilled that the Zoo is still open. The staff and procedures were 1st rate, the visitors were all screened and... masked. Easy to find space distancing during the visit. A wonderful open air experience. Some food/drink and shopping is available, all with most careful monitoring of health safety protocols.read more
Jalaya Wallace
08:20 01 Aug 20
With COVID going on I was afraid that my daughter would not enjoy her summer break off and our vacation time, but the... SAN DIEGO ZOO has gone above and beyond for making my experience safe and fun. The animals were so lively and I was able to hear a lion and a tiger roar on the same day! That was an amazing experience. I thought it was pricey and not going to be worth it with some things shut down , but with a lot of things cancelled this zoo still takes about 2-3 days to finish. Wonderful time and can’t wait to come back!read more
Praveen V P
16:02 28 Jul 20
The animals are taken care of and the surroundings are clean. We can see lot of animals within short period of time. I... expected over inflated tourist prices but it was reasonable. I admired how the zoo kept me informed how their efforts are conserving. I especially enjoyed the open bird room in the tropical area. All of the animals are within close proximity of each other.read more
Alexandria A.
21:04 24 Jul 20
Excellent, very diverse range of wildlife. Plan for a 4-5 hour day to see the whole zoo. We went when they opened at... 9am, so it was quieter and some of the animals were still sleeping. The gorillas and lion slept right up on the glass so we got a good look at them. However, there were also cases where the animals were sleeping off in a corner and we didn't get to see them that well until later in the day. Would recommend starting where the African animals are (there is no shade) and looping back toward the Lost Forest (lots of shade).read more
M S
20:24 23 Jul 20
The San Diego zoo is absolutely the best zoo in the country! From the range of animals, to how clean and well kept the... facilities are, the zoo always has something to offer for everyone, at almost any time! There's constant construction, work, and repairs being completed throughout the zoo which means that the landscape there always changes fairly regularly. Parking is a breeze, post covid 19, but in general plan to come early and search when the crowds return. have been coming for the better part of 33 years and always am amazed at how lucky southern California is to have such an amazing and beneficial attraction.read more
Jazmin Arce
23:41 21 Jul 20
My partner and I enjoy going to the Zoo every weekend as members. We live only a few blocks away, so we see it as a... great place to put in a few steps. We love taking our family when they come to visit, and it’s always so cute to see the cubs and other babies. It’s a great experience for all the family.read more
Taylor Gutel
22:59 18 Jul 20
I have been coming to the San Diego zoo since I was a small boy. It has always and continues to be one of the greatest... places of joy for me. The animals are well taken care of and the exhibits are always great. Today marks the first day I've taken my son now to the zoo. A tradition I hope continues for a long time.read more
Sandy Ferguson
00:26 13 Jul 20
Great day, a little warm but lots of room to see the animals. They are only filling to 50% of capacity. Disappointed... that the Giant Pandas are gone and the tigers wouldn't come out to play. Most of the animals, birds were out and active. The new areas are great, too. Love the Zoo.read more
Ali Bettner
23:20 12 Jul 20
I love the San Diego Zoo. First, parking is free and easy to find if you come early. I love that every visit is a... unique experience. The zookeepers and volunteers are very knowledgeable and kind. Great food and drink choices (the rum infused snow cone at the kiosk right before Elephant Odyssey is amazing).read more
Adam Kitt
16:22 11 Jul 20
The BEST! For generations the San Diego Zoo has provided a top notch educational and fun experience. The attention to... detail and abundance of plants and animals from all over the world is a sheer joy to be around.read more
Christopher Hazlett
21:18 10 Jul 20
Can get pretty busy. Even on a Friday. I prefer the Safari Park (the SD Zoo's daughter site) better. The great thing is... it's in walking distance of all the museums and Balboa Park. It's taking responsibility during Covid-19. My only complaint is I feel like if you want to see everything, you have to backtrack. But I'll take it as good exerciseread more
James Purl
19:23 09 Jul 20
Kudos for walking the line of safely allowing guests! World class zoo, though many of the extras were still closed in... this phase. Still worthy of traveling from NorCal and spending a few vacation days.read more
Breeann Shaffer
21:57 08 Jul 20
Tickets are on the pricey side but the attractions are great. Lots to see! Exhibits are clean and fun. Definitely... recommend going early on a week day. We were there at 9 am when they opened and left at 2 pm. We still didn't see all they had to offer, but in July it was getting a little bit hot. We would like to go back some day.read more
Craig C.
05:15 04 Jul 20
Great zoo. They have more endangered and threatened plants than animals. Go into the aviaries and enjoy. Wear good... walking shoes. Also the zoo is built into a steep canyon walk down and ride up.read more
Alexa Brantley
01:22 04 Jul 20
My favorite zoo across the country. Every Friday I bring the kids to visit one area of the zoo. The kids always love to... go to the petting zone and the playground after lunch. Also, I've had my favorite mango virgin margarita at one of the food cartsread more
Ryon Machinski
23:00 03 Jul 20
Everyone needs to go and support the cause. This Zoo is the best ever!! Its nestled in next to the world famous museums... and of coarse San Diego beaches. This place can get hot so be prepared to bring some waters and light clothes for the family. The staff is amazing and if you dont have the app I suggest you getting that installed prior to going to the park. Get to know the layout before you go, because it can be a hike if you happen to pass an exhibit. Get out there and have a good time. Make sure to visit the elephants, and the Monkeys super funny little guys.read more
Israel Garcia
22:32 03 Jul 20
I love the zoo. My family loves the zoo. In these times of Covid-19 they are managing crowd size well. They also screen... prior to entering. All of the concessions have outdoor seating so there is no impact on enjoying a beer or any other snack they offer.read more
Ryan E Sanders
15:53 03 Jul 20
It was fun. If you go fast, just maybe you could make it all the way through in the full 9 hours that they're open...... But I doubt it would be as fun compared to taking your time and enjoying each habitats. Could tell they are well funded, the animals are well fed and habitats very well maintained. One fun plus my wife and I enjoyed was the volunteers. They are so friendly and full of information about the animals. Also a great time to go right now, lots of new additions. They seem to be handling well the current Covid-19 situation we're all facing as well, social distancing, plenty of sanitizer available and requiring masks.read more
michigan allstar
06:11 23 Jun 20
A lot of walking, only because there's a lot to see. Prices are high though it's pretty much expected at a zoo. I do... believe this is something everyone should experience at least once. I absolutely LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the 4D movie experience! It's a must!read more
Yvonne Miles
21:13 20 Jun 20
Great Zoo and Safari Park. June 20th Reopening date! Wear masks social distancing is required. Still a fabulous place... to visit out doors, botanical collection is amazing.read more
lance avats
19:01 19 Jun 20
Pretty good as far as zoos go. One of the best in the country but the terrain is a bit exhausting. There are very steep... hills and stairs and the walkways are sometimes convoluted. The map is pretty easy to understand. The reason I didn’t give it five stars is because the animals you come to see are furthest from the entrance and THERE ARE NO PANDAS! (According to a sign outside of the old enclosure)read more
Ryan Huffman
13:50 18 Jun 20
Amazing experience seeing the Koalas up close. We actually were able to experience a good portion of animal sightings... during the experience and set our day up for a much more relaxing time!Everyone is so very helpful and knowledgeable!The dining is very good as well.We ate at Alberts and were thrilled with food and service.Do not miss this zoo!!read more
Pending Art
00:11 12 Jun 20
A beautiful place to get a lot of great pictures. I went and enjoyed every part. Bit be prepared for a lot of hill... walking. Highly recommend zoo. Very clean and respectful to the animals.read more
Ron Mosocco
00:02 01 Jun 20
One of America's best zoos, we took our grand kids here a few years ago. From reptiles and tortoises and snakes to... birds, fishes and mammals, the list goes on. All exhibits are well kept and the animals are well taken care of. While I am not a great supporter of caging specimens, preferring observing them in their natural habitat, this is a good alternative for children and our general population.read more
Mark S Smith
03:06 17 May 20
Had a great time there years ago. I have been meaning to post the pictures for a long time. I am not a huge fan of... zoos or aquariums, however I was in California for business and we stopped by the zoo. It was a super interesting experience and I wish we could have spent more time there.read more
Shayna Teti
12:02 28 Apr 20
I always love the zoo. I remember coming as a kid and now I get to take my son to see it too! We came at an off time... however, because quite a few animals were not out, or their habitat was being worked on. Which I totally understand, just bummed us out. Definitely buy your tickets online to save some money before you go.read more
Angela Soto
21:37 11 Mar 20
Amazing experience! Very well organized zoo with lots of information! We had an enriching experience worth the money... for our family of 4! We will definitely be coming back. I recommend walking toward the back and taking the bus on your way to the front. Expect to walk ALOT if you intend on seeing all the animals. The terrain is hilly, so wear good shoes and get a good stretch in before you. We loved the polar bear exhibit! And it was awesome to be able to get right up close face to face with an endangered tiger. I loved the emphasis the Zoo has on animal conservation and especially loved the exhibit that showed the past animals of California!read more
Noah Rosen
15:04 09 Mar 20
Always love the zoo. One of the best in the world for a reason. Superb staff is friendly and ready to answer questions... at any exhibit. Never too crowded when I’ve been either. The park food is expensive but compared to others like Disney, it’s a deal. Be sure to go on a cool day as the animals tend to be more active and out.read more