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Top things to do in San Diego

Experience the best of San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo sprawls over 100 acres in Balboa Park, featuring over 4,000 animals representing 650 species. With enclosures mimicking natural habitats, you can see polar bears diving in simulated arctic pools and pandas munching on bamboo. Hop on a tour bus, soar in the Skyfari gondola, or stroll through the zoo for a day well spent.
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Slide 1 of 13, San Diego Zoo entrance with visitors and ticket booths.
San Diego Zoo entrance with visitors and ticket booths.
Guide feeding an okapi while guests observe at San Diego Zoo.
People enjoying the sky tram ride at San Diego Zoo with scenic views.
Visitors observing giraffes and zebras in their habitat at San Diego Zoo.
Tourists watching a polar bear at San Diego Zoo.
San Diego Zoo tour bus near Conrad Prebys Australian Outback entrance.
Kids enjoying the rope bridge at San Diego Zoo.
Koalas perched on a tree at San Diego Zoo.
Giant tortoise walking on sandy ground at San Diego Zoo.
Kids exploring honeycomb exhibit at San Diego Zoo.
California Condor with wings spread at San Diego Zoo.
Visitors viewing penguins swimming in an aquarium at San Diego Zoo.
Polar bear swimming underwater at San Diego Zoo.

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Extended validity
Explore at your pace

  • Get ready to meet more than 4,500 rare animals! Book your ticket and make unforgettable memories in this 100-acre animal paradise, located right in the city.

  • Come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, and ride the Skyfari aerial tram, providing a downhill perspective of the exhibits.

  • Your ticket includes a guided bus tour, giving you a whirlwind introduction to this world-renowned sanctuary.

  • Interact with nature’s most fascinating creatures, from petting Galápagos tortoises to hopping on an Arctic research helicopter, it's all part of your day.

  • Unlock more wildlife encounters with the 2-visit pass, granting access to San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or a return visit to one.

  • Fun fact: The San Diego Zoo's West African Forest exhibit is home to a 65-foot manmade waterfall, Rady Falls.

More details

  • Get ready to meet more than 4,500 rare animals! Book your ticket and make unforgettable memories in this 100-acre animal paradise, located right in the city.

  • Come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, and ride the Skyfari aerial tram, providing a downhill perspective of the exhibits.

  • Your ticket includes a guided bus tour, giving you a whirlwind introduction to this world-renowned sanctuary.

  • Interact with nature’s most fascinating creatures, from petting Galápagos tortoises to hopping on an Arctic research helicopter, it's all part of your day.

  • Unlock more wildlife encounters with the 2-visit pass, granting access to San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or a return visit to one.

  • Fun fact: The San Diego Zoo's West African Forest exhibit is home to a 65-foot manmade waterfall, Rady Falls.

from
$78
Slide 1 of 13, Visitors on Africa Tram viewing giraffes at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Visitors on Africa Tram viewing giraffes at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park landscape with Africa Tram paths and distant mountains.
Safari tram tour at San Diego Zoo Safari Park passing by a scenic pond and palm trees.
Giraffes roaming grassy hills at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Tigers resting on a rock at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Entrance to San Diego Zoo Safari Park with visitors entering.
Safari tram with visitors passing rhino and wildebeests at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Rhino calf walking beside adult at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Cheetah walking in the grass at San Diego Zoo Safari Park with visitors in the background.
Giraffe close-up with visitors at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Tourists interacting with a cheetah at San Diego Zoo's Cheetah Safari.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park's Africa Tram area with lush greenery and unique architecture.
California condor perched at San Diego Zoo.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Extended validity
1 more

  • Feel the thrill of being in the wild, as you explore one of the world's largest and advanced safari parks! Meet over 2,600 animals in their natural habitats.

  • Strap in for the Africa tram tour, an unforgettable journey through a recreated African savannah in California, and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles along the way.

  • Witness the sheer speed of the Cheetah Run, these magnificent creatures will leave you in awe as they showcase their natural hunting prowess.

  • Choose the 2-visit pass for more flexibility—experience San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or spend extra time at your favorite.

  • Did you know? The Safari Park is home to the world's largest veterinary hospital, demonstrating their dedication to animal wellbeing and conservation.

More details

  • Feel the thrill of being in the wild, as you explore one of the world's largest and advanced safari parks! Meet over 2,600 animals in their natural habitats.

  • Strap in for the Africa tram tour, an unforgettable journey through a recreated African savannah in California, and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles along the way.

  • Witness the sheer speed of the Cheetah Run, these magnificent creatures will leave you in awe as they showcase their natural hunting prowess.

  • Choose the 2-visit pass for more flexibility—experience San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or spend extra time at your favorite.

  • Did you know? The Safari Park is home to the world's largest veterinary hospital, demonstrating their dedication to animal wellbeing and conservation.

from
$78
Slide 1 of 12, African tram touring San Diego Zoo Safari Park with scenic landscape and palm trees.
African tram touring San Diego Zoo Safari Park with scenic landscape and palm trees.
Tiger walking through greenery at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Giraffe near safari vehicle with visitors at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Flamingoes wading in water at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Child with grandparents observing kangaroos at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Guided bus tour at San Diego Zoo Safari Park with visitors on a double-decker bus.
Panda eating bamboo at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Rhinos and giraffes grazing at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Skytram ride at San Diego Zoo Safari Park with view of lush greenery and distant buildings.
Family entering San Diego Zoo, child smiling and holding hands.
Gorilla standing on grass at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Family of giraffes standing on a grassy hill at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park 2-Visit Pass

Extended validity
1 more

  • The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are home to wildlife from around the world, offering the chance to see rare and endangered animals up close in their naturalistic habitats.

  • Choose to visit the Zoo or the Safari Park twice with your ticket, or experience both attractions once.

  • The Zoo and Safari Park offer engaging experiences for people of all ages, making them ideal choices for families, young explorers, and nature enthusiasts.

  • Visit polar bears, koalas, penguins, tigers, and many other endangered species at the San Diego Zoo, home to a total of 12,000 exotic animals.

  • Go on a safari experience at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and get a chance to see gorillas, Sumatran tigers, kangaroos, and more in their natural habitats.

More details

  • The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are home to wildlife from around the world, offering the chance to see rare and endangered animals up close in their naturalistic habitats.

  • Choose to visit the Zoo or the Safari Park twice with your ticket, or experience both attractions once.

  • The Zoo and Safari Park offer engaging experiences for people of all ages, making them ideal choices for families, young explorers, and nature enthusiasts.

  • Visit polar bears, koalas, penguins, tigers, and many other endangered species at the San Diego Zoo, home to a total of 12,000 exotic animals.

  • Go on a safari experience at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and get a chance to see gorillas, Sumatran tigers, kangaroos, and more in their natural habitats.

from Original price$154.37
$130

16% off

Slide 1 of 11, San Diego Zoo treetop walkway and USS Midway Museum aircraft display.
San Diego Zoo treetop walkway and USS Midway Museum aircraft display.
Double-decker bus tour at San Diego Zoo amidst lush greenery.
Family observing a giraffe at San Diego Zoo during guided bus tour.
Aircraft carrier deck with crew member directing at USS Midway Museum, San Diego.
USS Midway Museum aircraft carrier docked in San Diego harbor with city skyline.
People enjoying the sky tram ride at San Diego Zoo with scenic views.
Guide feeding an okapi while guests observe at San Diego Zoo.
Giant tortoise walking on sandy ground at San Diego Zoo.
USS Midway aircraft carrier deck with historic fighter jets in San Diego.
USS Midway Museum aircraft carrier docked in San Diego Harbor, part of San Diego CityPASS®.
Interior of a vintage aircraft at the USS Midway Museum, San Diego CityPASS®.

Combo (Save 8%): San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • With flexible booking, you can visit both attractions on the same day or spread them across different days, ensuring your visit fits your schedule.

  • With just a 16-minute drive between the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum, visiting both is simple and convenient, making the most of your day.

  • Wander through lush exhibits and meet over 3,700 animals from across the globe. The San Diego Zoo offers a world-class wildlife experience.

  • Walk the historic decks of the USS Midway, where you can see over 25 restored aircraft and dive into the fascinating stories of naval aviation.

More details

  • With flexible booking, you can visit both attractions on the same day or spread them across different days, ensuring your visit fits your schedule.

  • With just a 16-minute drive between the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum, visiting both is simple and convenient, making the most of your day.

  • Wander through lush exhibits and meet over 3,700 animals from across the globe. The San Diego Zoo offers a world-class wildlife experience.

  • Walk the historic decks of the USS Midway, where you can see over 25 restored aircraft and dive into the fascinating stories of naval aviation.

from Original price$118.99
$109.47

8% off

Slide 1 of 20, Couple kayaking on ocean near San Diego with Go City Explorer Pass.
Couple kayaking on ocean near San Diego with Go City Explorer Pass.
Family enjoying Legoland California with colorful Lego figures, included in San Diego All-Inclusive Pass.
Visitor on USS Midway Museum deck overlooking San Diego Bay.
Speedboat on San Diego Bay with city skyline in the background, part of San Diego Explorer Pass.
Family walking with LEGO characters at The LEGO Movie World in San Diego.
Family exploring a Navy helicopter on the USS Midway Museum deck, San Diego.
Child exploring interactive exhibit at San Diego science museum.
Children observing sea shell exhibit at San Diego museum.
Cyclists on a beachside path with palm trees and ocean view in San Diego.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park entrance with visitors, San Diego.
Orangutan interacting with a smiling child at San Diego Zoo, part of Go City Explorer Pass.
Family observing baboons at San Diego Zoo through glass enclosure.
San Diego Air & Space Museum entrance with aircraft displays.
Child watching fish and coral at an aquarium in San Diego.
Innovation Studio with guitars and music equipment display in San Diego museum.
Amusement park rides and attractions at Knott's Berry Farm, included in Go San Diego Card.
Roller coaster ride at Belmont Park, San Diego, overlooking the ocean and amusement area.
Belmont Park roller coaster and beachfront in San Diego, part of Go City's All-Inclusive Pass.
Woman crossing stepping stones in a Japanese garden, San Diego.
Visitors enjoying a planetarium show in San Diego, part of the Go San Diego Card experience.

Go City San Diego Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

Extended validity
1 more
  • Access over 45 attractions and save up to $37 with Go City's San Diego Explorer Pass.
  • Eliminate the hassle of buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley tour and save 48%.
  • Choose between a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass, and don't worry about standing in line as your pass is completely digital!
  • Visit your first attraction, get your pass scanned and it's activated. Your pass is then valid for 30 days.
  • Some attractions that are included in your pass are Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures.
More details
  • Access over 45 attractions and save up to $37 with Go City's San Diego Explorer Pass.
  • Eliminate the hassle of buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley tour and save 48%.
  • Choose between a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass, and don't worry about standing in line as your pass is completely digital!
  • Visit your first attraction, get your pass scanned and it's activated. Your pass is then valid for 30 days.
  • Some attractions that are included in your pass are Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures.
from
$124
Slide 1 of 11, San Diego Zoo polar bear swimming and Old Town Trolley near historic ship.
San Diego Zoo polar bear swimming and Old Town Trolley near historic ship.
Family observing a giraffe at San Diego Zoo during guided bus tour.
Guide feeding an okapi while guests observe at San Diego Zoo.
Old Town Trolley in front of Old Town Market, San Diego, with tourists exploring shops.
Couple walking near marina and historic building on Old Town Trolley Tour.
People enjoying the sky tram ride at San Diego Zoo with scenic views.
Kids enjoying the rope bridge at San Diego Zoo.
San Diego Zoo tour bus near Conrad Prebys Australian Outback entrance.
Tourists enjoying a scenic view of the San Diego skyline from an Old Town trolley.
Ticket booth for Old Town Trolley Tour with people receiving maps and information.
San Diego skyline with marina and bay, view from a hilltop.

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Explore at your pace

  • Get up close with exotic animals at the San Diego Zoo, one of the world’s most celebrated zoos.

  • See San Diego’s landmarks your way with the flexible Old Town Trolley, featuring live commentary and 11 stops.

  • Stop J on the trolley route makes it easy to combine your city tour with a visit to the San Diego Zoo.

More details

  • Get up close with exotic animals at the San Diego Zoo, one of the world’s most celebrated zoos.

  • See San Diego’s landmarks your way with the flexible Old Town Trolley, featuring live commentary and 11 stops.

  • Stop J on the trolley route makes it easy to combine your city tour with a visit to the San Diego Zoo.

from Original price$135
$128.25

5% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Save time and money by purchasing tickets in advance online. Look for combo tickets with nearby attractions in San Diego like Safari Park or USS Midway Museum for added value.

Children aged 3 and above need a ticket to enter the zoo, and those under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Discounted rates are available for children between 3 to 11 years.

Some experiences, such as the Skyfari Aerial Tram and the Guided Bus Tour, are not included in the general admission ticket. Tickets for these experiences must be purchased separately at the zoo.

Certain attractions, like the Skyfari Aerial Tram and the Guided Bus Tour, are not covered by the general admission ticket. You need to purchase separate tickets for these experiences at the zoo.

The zoo is wheelchair accessible, allowing all guests to enjoy their visit. However, the hilly terrain may make some areas more difficult to navigate. To help with this, wagons are available for rent at the park entrance.

About San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit for wildlife lovers, home to over 650 species. It offers unique experiences, such as the Skyfari Aerial Tram and the Kangaroo Express Bus, along with interactive animal encounters and conservation efforts.

Address2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Also known asSD Zoo
Year opened1916
Founded byDr. Harry Wegeforth
Visitors per year4000000
Expected wait time - Standard0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

Koala colony: The San Diego Zoo has the largest colony of koalas and the most successful koala breeding program outside of Australia.

First cageless zoo: The zoo pioneered the concept of cageless, open-air exhibits to simulate natural environments for its animals.

Frozen zoo: The San Diego Zoo Global’s Frozen Zoo stores genetic materials of over 1,000 species, helping preserve biodiversity.

Skyfari aerial tram: This unique tramway offers panoramic views of the zoo, providing easy transport while offering a birds-eye view of the park.

Oldest zoo exhibit: The reptile house, built in 1922, is one of the zoo’s oldest features and still houses some of the world's rarest reptiles.

Why visit San Diego Zoo?

Conservation at the core

The San Diego Zoo is a leader in wildlife conservation, housing breeding programs and global projects to save species such as the California condor and Sumatran tigers.

Immersive habitats

Explore open-air, cageless environments like the Lost Forest and the Elephant Odyssey, designed to mimic animals’ natural habitats.

Family-friendly adventures

Kids and adults alike can enjoy the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, a state-of-the-art interactive zone.

Guided experiences

Take a guided bus tour or ride the Skyfari Aerial Tram to get unique perspectives of the zoo’s vast landscape.

Botanical gardens

In addition to animals, the zoo also doubles as a botanical garden, home to over 700,000 plants.

Highlights

Guided bus tour

Ideal for first-time visitors, the 35-minute narrated bus tour covers approximately 70% of the Zoo, providing an excellent overview of its sprawling grounds and habitats. The tour gives guests insight into animal care, conservation efforts, and fun facts about the animals as they ride in comfort.

Wildlife presentations

These engaging presentations feature some of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors and wildlife care specialists, who educate visitors on animal behaviors, species characteristics, and the Zoo’s conservation efforts. The live demonstrations offer a close-up view of the animals, which might include birds, reptiles, or small mammals.

4D theater

The 4D theater provides an immersive experience, combining 3D visual effects with real-life environmental effects like wind, mist, and seat movements. It’s a great way to take a break while still enjoying an educational, fun experience. Currently showing is Happy Family 4D, which is a hit with families and kids.

Botanical tours

The San Diego Zoo is home to over 700,000 plants, and visitors can take a self-guided botanical tour through the lush gardens. These tours highlight the importance of plants in the Zoo’s ecosystems, featuring rare and exotic plant species that contribute to the habitats of various animals.

Balboa Park Miniature Train

A charming and fun ride for families, the Balboa Park Railroad takes passengers on a four-minute, half-mile loop through scenic parts of the park, adjacent to the Zoo. This is especially popular with younger visitors who enjoy the playful atmosphere and the chance to ride a classic miniature train.

Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

This recently opened interactive zone is designed for kids and families. It features four zones based on ecosystems: rainforest, desert, wild woods, and marsh meadows. It offers hands-on activities, animal encounters, and educational displays about ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Plan your visit

Main entrance

Main entrance

The main entrance to the San Diego Zoo is located at 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101, within Balboa Park and features a grand, welcoming plaza with ticket booths and guest services. It's easily accessible by car, with a large parking lot right in front of the zoo.

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What our guests say

Michelle H

United States
Family
2 weeks ago
We had a wonderful family day at the zoo. 5 grandkids 7 and under, 8 adults. We had a very easy entry since we already had our tickets. Walking around this beautiful area was definitely a highlight of our trip. My 7 year old granddaughter was thrilled to see the koalas, it was number 1 on her list.

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Zandonaide C

United States
Couple
3 weeks ago
My visit to the San Diego Zoo was excellent! The zoo was beautiful, clean, and very well organized. There were so many amazing animals to see, and the exhibits were impressive and well maintained. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the entire experience was enjoyable from beginning to end. I had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend the San Diego Zoo to anyone visiting San Diego. I look forward to visiting again!

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Maria C

Group
3 weeks ago
The convenience of the frequent stops allowed for exploring many places in a short amount of time, while the knowledgeable guides added engaging personal twists to the experience. Overall, it was a fantastic trip that inspired a strong recommendation and a desire to take it again.

Combo: San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Carol L

United States
Couple
May 2026

+2 more

We have been to San Diego many times, but never taken the Hop on Hop off Trolley before. All of the drivers were friendly and informative. We saw and learned about places we had never been, like the Barrio Logan, Little Italy, and the amazing Star of India and other ships that we could explore! It was a great way to see the beautiful architecture of the city and enjoy the variety of the areas so conveniently. We give it 10 stars!!

Combo: San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Lesa M

United States
Solo
Jul 2026

+2 more

This was the Best Birthday present I have given for myself. The day spent at the Safari Park was Spectacular! It's easy to buy tickets on line and on person with ample parking. All the staff was extremely nice,knowledgeable and very helpful and friendly. This should be on everyone's Bucket List!!!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Pedro B

Mexico
Couple
Jul 2026

+4 more

The San Diego Safari Park offers the best animal adventure experience I’ve ever had; there is so much to see, and you can appreciate wildlife in a truly striking and impressive way—it is absolutely worth it. I gave these tickets to my girlfriend as a gift, and she was blown away. There are plenty of convenient options for food, drinks, resting, and so on. The train or tram ride to see the animals has a "fast lane" style cost of $20 per person, but it is worth paying for; everything is very clean and well-organized. Seeing the elephants and the tiger up close was definitely the highlight of the experience. I hope to go back again soon.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Fabrizio C

Solo
Apr 2026

+1 more

When you're in San Diego, you simply can't miss the USS Midway. Everything about it is wonderful. The staff and former crew members who served on that ship are truly courteous. When you talk to them, you can feel their devotion to their country, to the flag, and to the esprit de corps that, in a way, defines all of "us" who belong to the Armed Forces.

Combo: San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Keisha B

United States
Solo
Apr 2026
Easy, especially being my first time visiting. SeaWorld a BLAST! THE STAFF at SeaWorld A+++ Mrs Keisha, Andy and Sebastian!

Go City San Diego Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

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