Situated in Balboa Park in San Diego, San Diego Zoo is a marvelous attraction for the whole family. Ideal for kids and adults alike, this fantastic zoo is home to over 3500 animals. Also, more than 650 species are featured here. What makes it more interesting, compared to other zoos, is that it adopts cageless open-air animal exhibits. You see some friendly creatures, and you will get an idea that they are just living their normal life in their natural habitat. While in the San Diego Zoo, be sure to catch a glimpse of a giant panda as this place is home to these rare animals. On record, the zoo is considered the most-visited zoo in the whole US, attracting 4 million visitors annually. If you plan to swing by this exciting attraction on your holiday, here is a guide to San Diego Zoo.
1. Things to do / highlights
San Diego Zoo is an enormous zoo that will give you a glimpse into the wildlife habitat of the jungles of Africa. It is fascinatingly modern as it adopts animal-friendly cageless accommodation. Once you get to the place, you might be overwhelmed by the offerings it has in store for its guests. For your guidance, be sure to check out these unmissable highlights for an unforgettable tour.
Kangaroo Bus
The most delightfully convenient way to explore the San Diego Zoo is by taking advantage of the Kangaroo buses. Through this mini-tour bus inside the zoo, you will be taken to several points in the San Diego Zoo where you can not only see fascinating animals but lovely plants and flora, as well.
Botanical Tour
Whether you are someone with a green thumb or a regular Jane with a fascination for plants and flowers, surely you’ll love going on an exciting botanical tour in San Diego Zoo. Be amazed by the number of gardens the zoo has, including Australian Outback, Elephant Odyssey Trees, Fern Canyon, and Monkey Trails. Plus, you will encounter rare species that you can only find in this zoo.
Catch a show
Watching animals live their life at peace is a lovely experience. What’s even nicer is when you see them interact with skilled trainers and perform tricks. Shows are featured in San Diego Zoo. So, be sure to catch one (or two). Aside from scheduled special shows, the zoo has a regular 3pm daily show called Wild About Animals. Every weekend, a Dr. Zoolittle Explores Australia show happens in Boardwalk Beer Garden, from noon onwards.
Animal interaction
In San Diego Zoo, you can not only watch animals in their terrariums, but you can also pet them, with the aid of skilled trainers. Meet the zoo’s animal ambassadors and some friendly fellows for an animal encounter that’s one for the books. Some of the lovely creatures that you might be able to pet include polar bears, lemurs, baboons, meerkats, horses, camels, giraffes, and more.
2. What to eat
Surely, getting around San Diego Zoo might drain your energy. In order to be able to explore the whole area at ease, be sure to replenish your energy once in a while by ordering delicious food at any of the superb restaurants on-site.
Albert Restaurant
Albert Restaurant is situated in the heart of San Diego Zoo, at the Lost Forest. It is one of the most charming dining options in the zoo as it will treat you not only with hearty dishes but also a sight of the enchanting waterfalls. You can enjoy your food inside while admiring the interiors or opt for the terrace area where you will be indulging in the freshest air and picture-perfect views, together with your palatable meals.
San Diego Zoo Sandwich
If you’re not in the mood for some heavy meals and you just want some light snack, San Diego Zoo Sandwich is a fantastic dining spot for you. It is located by the zoo entrance, and it will serve you mouthwatering breakfast items such as tasty **sandwiches, vegetarian appetizers, salads, soups, and others. Plus, it also offers a kids’ meal that the little ones will surely enjoy.
Front Street Cafe
If you happen to be in the Reptile House when your stomach starts growling, head over Front Street Cafe. This fantastic restaurant serves delicious Mexican classic favorites. Indulge in some burritos and tacos, and pair them with a glass of fruity margarita. Aside from Mexican bites, it also has American options, such as burgers, chicken strips, and salads.
3. Things to buy
Your San Diego Zoo escapade will not be complete without scoring some souvenir items to bring home with you. Check out this exceptional souvenir shops on-site.
San Diego Zoo Kids Store
If you are in the zoo with your family, especially the little ones, be sure to take them to the San Diego Zoo Kids Store. This superb store carries everything you can think of, from apparel to accessories, books, toys, stuffed animals, and even snacks.
Zootique
For souvenir items, you might want to check out the hand-crafted international goods from Zootique. Aside from those, this shop also carries fashion items, jewelry, and gourmet eats.
Sydney's Shop
Whether you’ve been in the Land Down Under or you’re just fascinated with everything Koala-themed, Sydney’s Shop offers delightful plush Koala toys and other souvenirs that feature everything Koala. Bag home as many items you like for yourself and get some for your loved ones.
4. Travelers tips
Wear appropriate clothes
Exploring the San Diego Zoo can expose you to nature and the sun. Also, with the zoo’s enormous size, you will surely be moving around from one point to another. For a hassle-free touring experience, be sure that you wear breathable clothes and a pair of comfortable sneakers.
Bring a sunscreen
Most of the terrariums in the zoo are open-air. Hence, you will surely be basking in the warmth of the sun all-day-long, which is not always a good idea anytime after 9am. To avoid harsh sun rays and unwanted tan, be sure to protect your skin with some SPF. Have a sunscreen ready before heading to the San Diego Zoo.
Camera-ready
The San Diego Zoo is a beautiful park and attraction with picture-perfect features. Surely, you will be taking a multitude of photographs while in the zoo. To do so, be sure that you have your camera ready in your bag and some spare batteries. Or, if not into DSLR photography, you can always make use of your smartphones.
5. How to get there
Public transport
From downtown San Diego, the ride to San Diego Zoo is easy peasy. You just have to head to Santa Fe Depot and take the coaster train. From there, the train will drop you at Route 7 stop or Rapid 215, which are already in Balboa Park, where the San Diego Zoo is also located.
Hail a cab
For convenient transport, you can always hail a cab to San Diego Zoo. San Diego is well-trafficked with taxis, anywhere in it.
Book an Uber
Just like most major cities in the US, Uber is available in San Diego. It is a fantastic ride-hailing app that is safe and secure. You just have to download it to your mobile, key in your location and desired destination, check the price, and if it’s ok with you, book it. There, you’ll be able to see the distance from your location to San Diego Zoo and the estimated time of arrival, and the rate.
6. How to get tickets (from USD 72.0)
For online ticket booking, you can visit San Diego Zoo’s ticketing page. If its a spontaneous escapade, and you do not have a ticket ready, you can always buy tickets on-site. For better deals, you can also check out the tour packages.
San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Any Day Ticket
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Information about San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 9am - 8pm; Thu - Sat: 9am - 5pm
Cost: From 48 USD
Official website: San Diego Zoo
Department of tourism: Visit San Diego
History
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