サンディエゴの49のおすすめのアクティビティと観光名所 (2024)

This is the best zoo I’ve ever been to. All the animals are very active and fun to watch. They have a large variety of animals so there’s something for everyone.The transportation included in the ticket is amazing. The 30 minute free bus tour gave us a great overview of the zoo and let us see a lot of animals. The guide was very sweet and very knowledgeable. The kangaroo buses made it very convenient to get from exhibit to exhibit.The zoo is very large and it took us a whole day to see everything.

There was so much to see here. We spent about 6 hours and didn't see all the animals. All the exhibits were entertaining. The free gondola ride across the zoo was great. Free parking. Reasonably priced food, drink, stroller rentals and souvenirs. Would definitely go back to see what we didn't get to see this time.

We had a great day at the zoo! Parking is close and free, which is amazing! We took the zoo bus tour first thing, which gave us a good overview of the park and helped us figure out what we wanted to see. We loved all the methods of transportation through the park because it is so big. There is a kangaroo bus to 4 different areas. We didn't use this because we decided to just walk it so we wouldn't miss exhibits. But we did the aerial tram from one side to the other and back. We also used the elevator by the bridge two times to help with the hills. We happened upon an animal encounter by zoo workers with an aardvark. So fun! The animal enclosures are so beautiful, as is the park foliage. We ended up staying until 7:30 pm, much longer than we expected. There is so much to see!

This one is a most do!!! Great zoo!!! It's huge so I definitely recommend to get there early, wear comfy clothes and shoes so you can see the whole park because is definitely worth it, but to see it all u have to be early. It's very clean and beautiful also u can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need. One more thing bring sunscreen and enjoy!!!

I recently visited the San Diego Zoo and I must say it was an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, I was amazed by the vast array of animals and the beautiful environment they were in.One thing that stood out to me was the care and attention given to the animals. It was evident that the zookeepers genuinely cared for each animal and provided them with a comfortable and stimulating environment. The animals seemed happy and well taken care of, which is a testament to the zoo's dedication to conservation and animal welfare.The variety of animals at the San Diego Zoo is truly impressive. From elephants to meerkats to polar bears, there was something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed the different exhibits and habitats that allowed me to see the animals up close and learn about their natural behaviors.The zoo also offers numerous educational opportunities. From interactive exhibits to informative signs, I was able to learn so much about each animal's habitat, diet, and conservation status. It was both fun and educational, making it a perfect destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike.The San Diego Zoo is also beautifully designed and well maintained. The pathways were easy to navigate, and the landscaping was lush and vibrant. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort goes into creating a welcoming and visually appealing space for visitors.Overall, my experience at the San Diego Zoo was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of stunning animals, high-quality care, educational experiences, and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable day out.

The San Diego Zoo is hands down a five-star adventure waiting to happen. I mean, where else can you go from hanging out with pandas to checking out flamingos and then chilling with koalas, all in one place? It's like a global safari without the jet lag!But here's the thing that makes it truly special: not only is it a blast, but it's also a powerhouse for conservation and research. These folks are like the superheroes of the animal world, working behind the scenes to save endangered species and educate the world on the importance of wildlife preservation.And the setup? It's like Mother Nature herself decided to design a zoo. The exhibits are beautifully crafted to mimic natural habitats, which means you get up close and personal with animals in environments that feel just right.So, whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family with kiddos who adore animals, or just someone looking for a wildly fun day out, the San Diego Zoo has got you covered. It's not just a zoo; it's a wild journey that leaves you with a smile and a heart full of love for our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. Five stars for this fantastic place where adventure meets education!

One of the best zoos ever. I went on a Sunday at around 12:00 noon. Great parking, not too crowded, and great weather, what else can you ask for.Hop on the 30 minute tour bus, the guy gives you a lot of input about the zoo and its animals and it helped me plan for my day. They have what they call Kangaroo buses with four stops. You can get on and off at whatever stop, very convenient to get to the areas you want to get to. On this day, the animals were very active, it made my day even more eventful. I paid for the Polar Express experience, found in the same area as a polar bears, it was worth it. I also saw a lot of children walking around with their face painted, but I didn't see any adults doing it. My thought, why not. I got my face painted, it took all but maybe 5 minutes, and I loved it!I drove from the San Fernando Valley to San Diego, two and a half to three hour drive.If you're in California, and within driving distance, the San Diego Zoo is worth the drive.

Best zoo in the Country, hands down! It's super clean and the animal exhibits are so well kept. It's huge, it's easy to spend all day there. The employees are very helpful and happy to answer questions about any of the animals. The skyfari was so much fun also. We loved how many things were included with your entry ticket! So many amazing animals to see.

The Zoo exceeded our expectations. We stayed all day and have never watched so much activity by the animals at a zoo before . The trails and facilities were clean and well kept which makes for a nice experience as well. We took the free bus tour to start our day which gave us a good overview of the park. After walking to every exhibit throughout the day we ended with a trip up and back on the Sky tram. Overall, a great experience!

Our visit to the San Diego Zoo was an unforgettable experience! The first thing that caught our eyes was the luxurious vegetation throughout the zoo. The lush greenery and carefully curated landscapes made it feel like we were walking through a tropical paradise. The zoo is expansive, yet we never felt crowded, which added to the relaxed atmosphere.The enclosures are well-designed and meticulously maintained, providing a comfortable environment for both the animals and visitors. There were so many animals to see, from exotic species to familiar favorites, each more fascinating than the last. However, it was the enchanting panorama of the zoo itself that truly stood out. The combination of natural beauty and thoughtful design made our day feel like more than just a trip to see animals—it was a journey through a beautifully crafted world.One thing to note is that some trails can be a bit challenging for those with mobility issues. My daughter, who had a knee injury, found it a little hard to navigate a few spots. While we managed, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re visiting with anyone who has difficulty walking long distances.Overall, the San Diego Zoo offers an incredible experience, blending the wonders of nature with top-notch facilities. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the area, and I highly recommend it for all ages!

Incredible zoo. I haven’t been to all the greatest zoos in the world, but I’ve been to enough to realize this place is amazing. The organization and navigation around the park is really helpful and makes the experience enjoyable. The app works great. I highly suggest planning your day with it. We got on the bus tour first thing, and it made all the difference to say we saw just about every animal already. There were several places for the kids to jump on statues or claim ropes, which helps as well. The skylark was also really fun. I recommend buying tickets in advance and October kids go free, which helps a lot.

It's been a few years since we've been here but it has changed in such an amazing way!!! The new children's area is great!!! They have beautiful new exhibits, new buildings and structures. They have a wet play zone for the kids with waterfalls, arcing waters and splash zones. They also have a dryer you can pay to use to dry off too! They have amazing new merchandise for the kids as well. If you haven't been here in a while, I'd highly recommend it! We had so much fun!

Let’s be real- this zoo is just unbeatable. It is a magical experience just to walk through it , let alone to witness the stunning variety of animals and plants. Hands down it is a must-see of San Diego. Definitely download the app and try to do the bus tour early morning or in the evening as I think the animals are more lively. There is always a chance that you won’t get to see some of the animals but you won’t be disappointed with the monkeys, koalas, and the many stunning aviaries. The history of the zoo and its many many animals is also captivating and a gift that keeps giving after you leave. It is definitely doable in one day but another day may have alleviated some of the angst of seeing or not-seeing some of the animals.

We had a wonderful time! The staff was very friendly and helpful. Everybody was wonderful. Even the crowd was relatively nice and respectful for California. we had a great time. We saw lots of animals rode the gondola and had funnel cake. The park was very clean. We couldn't have asked for a better visit, and we will definitely be back! Thank you so much for a wonderful experience!!**UPDATE**We ended up staying for the last show, and it was amazing! Lots of energy, and you could tell the performers really enjoyed what they were doing, It was very enjoyable! I would highly recommend staying for it!

My daughter and I did the roar and snor. Our experience was amazing. The tents were well maintained. The bathrooms were well kept. The food provided was decent, typical camp food. Plenty to go around. The late night snacks were a welcome plus. The staff was professional and friendly. The tour guides were amazing and very informative. The grounds are beautiful even in the midst of construction.

Great clean and beautiful zoo, I definitely recommend to get there early so you can see most of it, and it’s definitely worth the time and the money.Loved the bus/ shuttle system and the gondola sky lift.Also you can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need.The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about the animals! Gift ships were awesome.

Great experience. Had a free pass but if I had to pay I would definitely not come frequently. The place is amazing, great vegetation and amazing and exotic animals. There is great bus-tours that get you around and would definitely recommend the Kangaroo Bus. Animals seem to be somewhat free and there is very helpful info next to each one of them

I herd that this zoo is world wild famous. But I was not impressed at all. It is a big place to spend a day. There is many animals to see. Cable cars that takes you to other side of zoo. And two bus lines. One is with four stops around the zoo. And other one is like a tour bus that talk in detail about zoo. Part I didn’t like is they just returned Pandas to China. And I really wanted to see panda in person. Other one is that I could not see most of animals in park. Cause their sports are so big and majority of animals been hiding in their homes. I will try Safari park next time.

We did a full day with all tickets purchased online in advance. Early admission through the baby boom package, zoo pass and then dinner and aurora. The entire experience was first class. Having attractions like the kids park, gondola and bus tour as part of the ticket are very nice. Lines always moved very quickly and we're well organized. The zoo is as much a meticulous garden. The grounds are amazing. Staff were extremely engaged and attentive. Early morning pass was exceptional opportunity to be in the zoo before it got busy. Only issue was the amount of times we had to double back. The app and map are not always clear and it is easy to miss a turn and head in the wrong direction. Dinner at Albert's was very good. Plan for the whole day and enjoy.

I enjoyed my trip to the San Diego Zoo. I would recommend getting the tickets online to save a few extra dollars. It is $70-$72 to get in to the zoo, which may seem like a lot but at least they offer free parking. The zoo itself is massive. The bus tour and tram ride is included with the price of the ticket was nice and was a great way to explore the park. I would recommend renting a scooter for $60 dollars to fully get the most out of the park if you aren’t able to walk. I walked 6 miles and still did not see the entire zoo. I would also like to recommend the zoo creating an app for the public to guide us better.

Easily the best zoo I’ve ever been to. There are so many animals and you need a whole day to see everything. Lots of walking, but there are plenty of buses and other forms of transportation to bring you around the zoo. I loved the tiger and the polar bear, they also have a really cool elephant exhibit.

So worth it. The $74 ticket shocked us at first, but after going on the SkyFari, the bus tour, and visiting all of the animal enclosures, it was well worth it. It took us around 2 hours and a half to finish seeing everything. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful. The zoo is well maintained and packed with people!Loved it!

My husband and I had lots of fun at San Diego Zoo! I love the lush vegetation and how the zoo strives to safe both endangered species and plants. The animals were beautiful and you can tell are well cared for and loved by staff. We like how you can purchase coke sippers/ souvenir cups and get free refills that day. A good way to safe $5 on tickets are to purchase the tickets at the Balboa park visiting center plaza. I would definitely come back to visit.

This place is great! Plenty of benches and shady spots along the trails. I spoonful advise you bring a water bottle which they will refill with water or buying a free refill soda. Plenty of animals to see. Plenty of things s for kids to interact with. There's a reason this is considered one of the best zoos in the world. Definitely a must visit if visiting San Diego. If local buy the champion membership. Skipping lines, separate entrance, and includes wild animal park as well. Good for 2 people and you get two free passes. So if 4 purple going. It basically pays for itself on first visit. Click"helpful" if you found this helpful please

We loved our trip to the zoo and would heartily recommend it to anyone. In fact, we have to put it as the number 1 attraction in San Diego. It really is something not to miss when you are in the city. We took the guided bus tour first and it was a good way to see the whole area before the walk around the zoo. There are restaurants in the zoo and the food was great. Would recommend wearing comfortable shoes since it's a big area you'll be walking. Take a stroller if you go with children or you can rent one in the park which costs you $16.

The zoo was such fun! It was clean and well-maintained. The restrooms were clean and the staff were friendly and nice. There were plenty of places to sit and get out of the sun. The animals' cages were well kept, and there was a good variety. We rode the tour bus and took the sky tram with ease, and had a blast. On a Friday morning/afternoon, it wasn't too crowded, although we had to wait about 45 minutes to pickup our tickets, so it may help to add some kiosks to aide with this in the future.

Being the most pricey zoo I’ve ever seen before, it’s totally worth it. This place doesn’t just take great care of their animals but they really care about the cause of protecting them. The tours you can go on at the zoo are fantastic, the place is so big you could spend all day there being entertained and you would still have more to see! While the price of a bottle water is $6.50, at least it’s going to a good cause. The Zoo is incredible and really lives up to the hype it has.

Great place for groups, families, and/or couples to stroll the paths and view the animals. Feeding time is the best time to go. Mid-day is probably the least favorable time to see the animals out and about in their areas.Parking is free. If you go mid-day or later might as well start looking for a spot in the closest isles and work your way farther away.Their are food choices but not as many as the wild animal park.Hard to believe there is a zoo in the center of a city but when your in there you forget.

The San Diego Zoo is definitely one of if not the best zoos in the country. There are so many animals and so much to see and do. The exhibits are nice and the whole zoo is really well put together and maintained. It’s slightly expensive but worth the price. We had a variety of ages in our group and everyone had a great time. We got there just before it opened and had no problem with parking.

We had a great time at the zoo. The first thing we did was the bus tour and I'm glad we did it right away because it got very busy later in the day. It was also great to give us an idea of the zoo layout and see the animals from a different side in some cases.

You have to love the zoo! The koalas, the big cats, the aardvark, the elephants, the baby bears, penquins, rare birds, plant life and so much more!It was a beautiful day in San Diego and the zoo is a must see. We took advantage of items included with your admission such as the mini bus tour, the kangaroo bus transportation and the sky tram, but mostly it's great to walk around and observe the amazing wildlife. I was impressed by the efforts of the zoo to provide what appears to be suitable habitats and the proper environment for these wonderful creatures. Take in all you can as there is so much to see and much to learn. There were a few areas under construction, but hardly noticeable as you take in the vast area of the park. We have heard the safari is a great option and plan to check it out on a future visit. For our initial visit we wanted to walk throughout the zoo at our own pace. The walking is up and down hill, while our biggest challenge, to be honest. was dodging the hundreds of strollers. While also fun to watch the excitement of kids seeing some of these animals for the first time.The shops, restrooms and food/drink stands with tables and seating placed throughout the park, provide opportunities to take breaks during your stay. Pace yourself and allow most of the day to experience as much as you can. Have fun and support the San Diego zoo!

The Zoo is one of our favorite places to explore as a family. We have a membership and visit often. There are always new things to see, and the grounds are beautifully maintained. I feel that they do a wonderful job of caring for the animals here, and their conservation efforts globally are impressive. We feel good about supporting them. 💚 The children's Basecamp area is so much fun, even as a stand-alone activity. My girls love the water area, climbing structures, tree house, and monkey bridge. They could easily spend hours in this area. This area of the zoo also hosts the cleanest restrooms, in our experience. I usually pack swimsuits & towels for my girls to change into, as I know we will undoubtedly end up in this area and get soaked. Not a problem when it's hot though, the water is a welcome cool down. The new exhibits in this area are very cool as well. We always have a great time at the zoo.

hands down the largest zoo I’ve ever been to (and I’ve been to many of them). clean zoo & lots to do and a plethora of exhibits to see — I recommend spending the whole day here when you buy tickets, which I suggest you do in advance (and check for value days!). many food and drink stands and options available. knowledgeable and kind staff members and volunteers throughout the zoo. you can hop on the kangaroo bus for a tour or ride the sky-ride gondolas to view the zoo from above. my friend and I were visiting from out of town and had a blast!

This place is massive with amazing exhibits. While they do have trams, buses, and guided tours for everyone, if you really want to see everything, be prepared for lots of walking: lots of hills and lots of stairs. Fortunately, there is a lot of shade and plenty of benches. We spent a little over five hours walking around trying to see everything in one day. The sky car is a great little break with phenomenal views of the entire Balboa Park valley.

The San Diego zoo is a must see for families with kids. There are so many animals, it’s hard to even fit them all in one day. The season pass is worth it for this reason alone especially if you live in the area.The staff is extremely helpful and very nice. I lost my wallet at some point and the staff was so helpful and professional, I was amazed at how quickly they were able to direct me to the lost and found to get assistance.The exhibits are extremely informative too, which is helpful because there are SO MANY animals, there are even ones that I’d never heard of. The signs are easy to follow as well, and it’s difficult to get lost.It’s also really cool how accessible the zoo is for the handicapped too. There are elevators and ramps everywhere, plus a bus tour for those who aren’t keen on walking or not able to due to health reasons.The splash pad is an awesome spot for kids under 10 to cool off and play. There are several places to sit and relax in the shade for adults while easily supervising their young ones.

This was by far the best trip. My partner has never been. My sister and her girlfriend took us and it was so much fun. This place is huge and lots of walking. They provided free tour bus and free gondola rides. It was a very busy weekend. When it comes to parking the parking lot was completely full. I think paying 60 dollars for valet is a complete rip off. But they did provide a free shuttle ride which was awesome. Definitely will be going back.

This was amazing space. The exhibits are so well designed that even though it was busy, it was still possible to have special animal encounters around each bend.We have a medical service animal, named Penny, who loved it. The animals were pretty curious about her, too. The Harpy Eagles were especially intrigued by our furry companion.There were just so many great spaces to experience nature together with people.

What a fantastic zoo! I can see why it's rated the highest in the country!We knew when we booked this trip that a visit to the famous San Diego Zoo was going to be a necessity. The value day pass is a fantastic deal if you're going to visit on a value day. The zoo at times can feel a little bit like a maze, but it's worth going down every path and seeing every exhibit and animal.The zoo is very well maintained and there are volunteers all over to help guide you and provide insight and/or answers to any questions you may have. And the scenery is gorgeous!There are also extras included, even with the value passes, like the guided bus tour and the kangaroo bus (hop-on hop-off). Make sure even if you see the whole zoo on foot that you take the guided tour, you get some great perspective and different views!

The San Diego Zoo was amazing! The volunteers were helpful with directions and giving info about the Zoo residents. You definitely need an entire day to see everything. My wife and I probably experienced 90% of it. Definitely take the tour bus, so you can have an overview of the park animals, then go see your favorites. The sky lift was an awesome experience itself.I highly recommend coming here. We will definitely be coming back with the kids on our next trip

What an awesome, Awesome and amazing place. As an animal lover, a conservationist, and someone who cares deeply for our planet and all of the flora & fauna on it, I always learn so much at each visit, exhibit, and by observation. It is always sad to see magnificent creatures in enclosures, but some are rescued for their safety & well-being and all to teach us the beauty and awe of our planet. Their collection of rare and unusual plants is glorious! I left with serious plant envy.

We were a little reluctant to come to the zoo because of the high price of the ticket, but I am so glad we did it. This was one of the best zoos I have ever been to. There are so many exhibits and so many educational opportunities. The workers and volunteers were incredibly nice and informative. We rode the Skyfari which was SO awesome. Getting an aerial view of the zoo was really cool. We had a chance to do the bus tour, but we decided to walk instead. You can really tell that the animals are well-cared for and have a lot of space. The aviaries were really awesome to experience, too. I think my favorite exhibits were the flamingos, the giraffes, and the sun bears. I also loved all the plants that were around the zoo and seeing the different types of plants that thrive on the west coast versus the east coast that I am used to. The gift shops were amazing and had just the kind of things I wanted to buy as souvenirs. Overall, I loved it here and would definitely return.

This by far has been the best zoo we've visited in the United States so far. The zoo is incredibly large. We spent just over 8 hours there and still did not cover the entire place.The whole place really feels like you're walking through a forest and the habitats themselves instead of moving from one exhibit to another. There are skylift rides as well as double decker buses to travel around.Plenty of food, bathrooms and everything you can imagine. I would highly highly recommend visiting!

This zoo is amazing you can spend 6+ hours at this zoo. They maintain the zoo and the animals. It was clean easy to walk or ride on the tour bus for free. We did the walking of the whole zoo first then before we left we took the bus tour for more information about the animals. This zoo is highly recommended to visit. The price is excellent for what they have to offer. They have many parking spaces but try to get there early for a great spot. Food is good a little pricey but I support zoos. They have a good selection of local brews and souvenir cups. If you’re into margaritas they have those as well. Prepare to spend a whole day from open to close at this zoo, it is well worth it. Also online tickets are good for 1 year to use so pre purchase.

It's literally the best zoo we have ever visited. If you have a toddler, make sure you take your stroller. There are a few hills inside that will tire them out. There are plenty of restrooms and quick food spots. Seems the staff takes care of the animals sanctuaries quite well. The only con is parking. Make sure you arrive earlier than planned to get a good spot. You can also park on the street by the school next to the dirt road. No fee. You can then walk for about 5 min until you reach the zoo entrance. There is no VIP parking. Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid wait time. If you are going during January, you may need a jacket in case it gets cold at night. One more thing, download the app. It was extremely helpful for inside the zoo navigation and for other information regarding zoo time shows and attractions.

It’s been quite some time since we’ve visited the San Diego Zoo but I was truly happy we did. It’s just as big and beautiful as I remember. I LOVE all the animals, especially the koalas, elephants, giraffes, and the aviary that has not only birds, but working ants. That truly was awesome. A must see for everyone. And please know that the bus ride throughout the zoo is free which we were thrilled about!

This has got to be one of the best zoos you can visit. You can easily spend an entire day here if you take your time and wander around. As Travelers, we spent half a day at the zoo and were able to see everything we wanted to. All the staff and volunteers are super helpful and can answer questions or direct you to where you need to go. At the time of writing this review (May 2024), the pandas were not present, so we missed out seeing them. If you plan on coming and are on a tight budget, I would recommend bringing your own snacks/food as prices are very inflated. Other than the food and beverage costs, the admission is worth experiencing one of the best zoos I've ever visited. For time, conscientious visitors spend half a day at the zoo and then take a short jaunt over to Balboa Park.

We had a blast at San Diego zoo. The lion at the front entrance is majestic. Different types of lemur, bears, monkeys made our day. The other areas that we really enjoyed is the lost forest and the high waterfall. Entrance fees for the non resident child and adult seem bit overpriced and not many food options specially for the vegetarians. But I will still call a day well spent and overall a good experience.

I had a fantastic time seeing the elephants and giraffes up close. The flamingos are beautiful, and their bright colors are stunning. One of the best parts was feeding the colorful parrots right from my hand. It's such a fun experience for both kids and adults. The zoo is well-maintained and the animals look happy and healthy. Highly recommend visiting if you're in the area!

My family and I booked a VIP tour for the zoo and safari and it was well worth the price. The zoo is massive and we would have never been able to see all the wonderful exhibits and animals without the tour. Not to mention all the personal encounters and behind the scenes areas we were able to see. That's all on top of how nice the zoo is, definitely one of if not the best in the country.

Absolutely enormous zoo, we spent 6 hours there and still didn’t see everything! The zoo was incredibly well maintained and clean with a huge variety of not only endangered animals but also plants, each zone is very diverse and an experience in itself. Be sure to wear lots of sunblock, comfy shoes and breathable cloths as several areas are pretty humid and offer little relief from the sun.

My family and I are locals and have year-round passes, and this place NEVER gets old! After 12 years of living out here, we still manage to see something new, almost every time we visit. The improvements in the enclosures are amazing! Definitely more action from any of the animals that love to climb. Of course, it is super exciting to have the giant pandas back! This zoo goes above and beyond on so many levels! It's a great weekly walk with the kids if you're a local like me, or it's a wonderfully exciting experience if you're coming here on vacation!Weekends are, unfortunately, rather busy, so a weekday morning/ afternoon would be ideal for less foot traffic.

My feet are screaming as I write this. lol. I would consider this zoo an all day affair. There’s a lot of walking to do and some hills you’ll be going up and down. It seems like they fill up reuse able bottles with water for you and they have one you can buy for 14.99 for the day and get any fountain drink with free refills. Water is very important while walking around. Your favourite animal is probably here so bring your back up batteries for videos and photos! The zoo is super clean and the staff loves talking about the animals. The sky ride was a crazy view but if you don’t like heights then avoid. I was white knuckled holding the bar.If you have kids a 2-day pass isn’t a bad option as they might not be able to handle all the activities they have for kids AND walk an entire zoo.

Having been to the Omaha zoo last year had some high expectations and wow does San Diego Zoo deliver. Just an exceptional overall experience.The variety of displays were amazing. Love all the different areas. Our favorite for sure was the gorillas 🦍 but they are all awesome.The scale of the zoo is awesome, super easy to navigate but you are walking through such great greenery the entire day would be a nice walk even without the animals. Really enjoyed all the unique plants and trees as well.The staff is super helpful and very informative as well. Loved that.

You can never go wrong with visiting the beautiful San Diego Zoo!! Wonderful exhibits and such an enjoyable day. We have been many times and will continue to go. We have seen the prices increase over the years, but it’s just a sign of the times… Best time to visit it when they open! The animas are more active and you can even catch some feeding times. 10/10 experience. Pro tip: bring your own lunch and eat at one of the many picnic tables provided! Bring plenty of water too. And take the bus tour to get a good overview of the zoo. The sky tram is wonderful!

It is very well organized, all the workers are very competent and nice, and you can tell they love their animals! The zoo is really big.We got there before the zoo opened and we were able to see everything in half of the day and we also ate a delicious lunch. We definitely think it is worth going. We’ll be back for sure!

It’s a good zoo to visit. Bring the entire family because the environment is relaxing. Take the bus ride otherwise you won’t be able to see all the exhibits in one day. Lots of animals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and more to see. They also do live shows (refer to the phone app for the current day schedule).We saw a lion, tiger, cougar, elephant, rhino and more.We bought tickets online so it’s easier than buying at the gates.There are food services throughout the park serving drinks, sandwiches, and more so you won’t need to pack lunch. They do allow bringing in food and drinks.There are several smaller gift shops located throughout the park, but the main store at the exit has all the different variety of toys and gifts.There is an alcohol policy allowing only one drink per ID. Kind of a strange policy considering that the drinks come in 12 oz cans or draft and I could not buy one for my wife. She had to go wait her turn to buy her own drink.

This zoo is massive & had a ton to see. If you can I'd try to arrive shortly before they open to see their neat opening ceremony. Be prepared for tons of walking, there are plenty of spots to sit and rest but it is a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat & a water bottle.I love zoos that create themed areas, the San Diego zoo does a great job with that from the reptile walk to the Asian area. I was very happy with how tropical the whole place felt, it was packed with lots of cool trees, plants and flowers that also offered shade to escape the sun under.This zoo has quite a few animals other zoos do not have which is a huge plus! It was so cool being able to see the Polar bears. I also enjoyed the fact that you can get your hand stamped at the exit to come back later in the day if you want to eat in your car or go outside the zoo to eat. We went with this option to go grab lunch, cool down and come back. In total we spent about six to six and a half hours exploring this zoo.It was well worth the visit! Also want to note it is a good idea to get there early because even though the parking lot is huge this is a popular spot when tourists are in town so it will fill up quickly.

Nice zoo. Not many kids engaging activities. Kids get bored really easily . There is too much walking, which I like but not 8 and 5 years old.You have maps but guidelines to get to every area in an efficient way, not there. You have to figure it out on your own.The best time to come is early in the morning when most of the animals are active.

Absolutely a great zoo. There are lots of amazing animals to see, lots of fun activities to do and plenty of good places to eat. My family and I have been to most of the top zoo's in the country and really like the San Diego Zoo. The price per person is very fair. I would highly recommend this zoo.

Love the how they did a great job recreating some of the habitats for the animals...plenty of plants and space to fly or run freely. Variety of the best and near exotic and extinct animals are kept safe here. The donations and proceeds fun Wild Life Organizations. My son enjoyed the Flamingos, Bird Aviary, Lions, Monkeys, Hippos, Cappy, Elephants, Giraffe and reptile house! Wear your sun hat and walking shoes... plenty of walking to do here. There is a tram tour as well. Variety of Restaurants to chose from with good quality food, honestly way better than Sea Worlds menu. Plus you can also bring in your own snacks and food. Parking is free. Seniors are and Active Military are free as well. Very scenic and relaxing.

While my daughters were on spring break I decided to go to the San Diego zoo during the week so it would be less visitors and ample parking. I bought our tickets online so when we got there all I had to do was show the tickets on my phone they scanned it and that was it off we went to our journey of seeing all the beautiful animals. Let me just say it was a good decision.There was ample parking. It wasn't crowded there was a nice crowd but it wasn't so crowded that you couldn't see the animals that you wanted to see.We had such a great day at the San Diego zoo. I must say I was a little bit disappointed only because some of the habitats that we went to visit were empty and we wanted to see the animals but overall we had a great day we saw some beautiful animals and we were very happy. I hope when we go back that we will see more of the habitats filled with animals. It was beautiful though and very enjoyable.We also got some great pictures at least for my phone😂 Oh! I almost forgot and they serve drinks🍹now I was happy again. I haven't been to the zoo in a long time but I was very pleased to have a margarita while I walk through the zoo. 😄 You must go and have fun with the kiddos!

It was Awesome, we walked in no lines. Spent the whole day there. Weather was overcast but cool, sun came out later in the day. Pizza was delicious. Was able to see lots of animals. Took the bus tour & rude the sky tram. Parking was free. Never disappointed that is an Awesome zoo!

This zoo is great! Usually when I go to a zoo I feel a little bad for the animals because they don’t have a ton of space but this zoo gives the animals so much space! Definitely get yourself a map and get there early in the day as later it gets pretty busy but it was still not bad at all and we went on a Sunday. Oh, best part… it’s free for military every time you go! When I come back here I’m definitely going again!!

Probably the best zoo I've been to. This is more of an "amusement zoo" than a regular zoo. One can spend a day and then some here. Great layout and the facilities are nice as well. Had a great time with the little one. Would definitely be back next time we're in San Diego. Would recommend to bring food from outside as it is permitted and the food options at the zoo don't taste that great.

I recently spent a day at the San Diego Zoo, and it was an amazing experience! This place really lives up to its reputation. The variety of animals and the thoughtfulness in the layout make it a must-visit, whether you're a local or just in town for a bit.One of my favorite parts was the **Polar Bear Plunge**. Watching these massive animals swim and play was both fun and mesmerizing. The observation windows give you a great view whether the bears are on land or in the water, making it easy to see their playful side. I also loved the **Skyfari Aerial Tram**—a ride that not only gave us a stunning view of the entire zoo but also served as a nice shortcut when our feet started to tire. Plus, the views of San Diego from up there are fantastic.If you're visiting with kids, don't miss the **Swamp Monkeys and Otters** in the Lost Forest. These little guys were super entertaining, especially watching them play together. The **Asian Passage** with its adorable Red Pandas and stunning Snow Leopards was another highlight—those snow leopards are seriously gorgeous.Pro tip: Arrive early! The animals are more active in the morning, and you can explore the zoo before it gets crowded. Also, if you’re looking for a break from the sun, the **Lost Forest Aviaries** offer a cool, shaded retreat with some interesting bird species to watch.Overall, had an awesome time at the San Diego Zoo. There’s so much to see and do, and whether you're an animal lover or just looking for a fun day out, you won’t be disappointed.

Beautiful facility with a lot to see. Tickets are $74/adult, but a lot comes with that. They provide a 35 minute double deck bus tour as well as a "kangaroo bus" to help you jump to different areas of this HUGE zoo. We took the Skyfari Aerial Tram up to the top - free of charge - and I definitely suggest using it to get to the top and walk down the zoo because some of the walkways are extremely steep. A wide variety of animals, plants, and shopping areas. There is also an opportunity to feed a giraffe a biscuit for $7!

Visited the San Diego Zoo and it was quite the adventure! The first pic reveals a hornbill perched behind foliage, almost playing hide and seek – a real treat for bird enthusiasts. The second shows a vulture casually sunning atop a high perch. Third, we've got a snoozing lion, masterfully blending into the golden hour light. And the map? Well, it highlights the zoo's impressive layout, ensuring you don't miss a beat. Navigating the zoo is a breeze with clear signposts and a handy map – super helpful for planning your day. Each habitat is well-maintained, and the animals seem content, giving you a sense of ease as you wander through. There’s a good variety of species to see, and even on a busy day, you can catch a glimpse of the animal kingdom's finest without feeling crowded. Definitely a place to come back to, with or without the kids. The San Diego Zoo does a fine job balancing conservation efforts with visitor experience. Whether you're here for the majestic lions, quirky birds, or just a walk among the diverse exhibits, it’s a day well spent. Two thumbs up for this iconic spot!

Must visit in San Diego. Huge zoo. A lot of animals to see. I recommend doing bus tour first so you get an idea of the zoo and plan out what to see first. I really love walking the west side of the zoo, that includes lions, giraffes, monkeys, donkie, bears.. the east side, such as reptiles, birds were too crowded and felt like there wasn't too much to see. The small coffee was 6 dollars so please bring your food and drinks. Restrooms are conveniently located everywhere. All the staff were so sweet and kind, definitely kid's dream place.

A wonderful zoo with so many exhibits & animals to see. Ample parking, plenty of food/drink, bathrooms, and shade.Cons are food pricing (par for the course though), food service (often long lines and SLOW, less than friendly service), & a lack of water bottle filling stations.I also find it very interesting that their souvenir cups are entirely plastic & only offer a discount on same day refills - no incentive for people to bring them back in the future and a big piece of throw away plastic. Feels rather tone deaf for a zoo focused on conservation and sustainability.

The experience overall is great. It's one of the best zoos in the United States. With lots of animals to see. It has a tour bus that goes all around the zoo, and you can hop on hop off at any of the bus stops within the zoo. Right near downtown San Diego. You can see the skylines and plane landing too.

San Diego Zoo is a home to over 10000 animals. It is a must visit if you are an animal lover.Very clear instructions and map to follow. The whole zoo is wheelchair or stroller accessible. They also have parking for strollers. Face painting is available for an extra cost. It's fun to watch kids with painted faces.Their Bus Safari and Skyfari are the highlight of the zoo. It was a pretty hot day when I visited, but thanks to their safaris, I could short-list the section I wanted to visit.

The San Diego zoo is arguably one of the best zoos in the world. It's a must-see when visiting San Diego. A thorough visit takes a full day as it's a zoo of superlatives: between 3-4 million annual visitors marvel at the 12'000 animals and 700'000 unique plants. The 40 acre zoo is so large that a guided bus tour takes 30min. A gondola or a shuttle bus takes you across the park.The zoo was a pioneer in the concept of open-air, cage-less exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats. The zoo was founded over 100 years ago in 1918. You can explore the park by geographical zones (Asia, Africa, Australia, etc.) or by following different trails (monkey trail, tiger trail, hippo trail, etc.)The park is very child friendly and family oriented. The park is fully wheelchair / stroller accessible. There is a fun water play area for children (bring swim suits and your own towels). Face painting is available for an extra fee. 25 different restaurants, cafes, and snack bars offer food options for everyone. After 4.30pm, there are numerous musical and artistic performances.