A guide to visiting the San Diego Zoo

It's hard to find a better place to spend a leisurely day than the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which caters to all ages and should be on everyone's itinerary if they're visiting the city for the first time. Parents and children enjoy returning to this spot as a cool and refreshing excursion.

 

There is good reason for its reputation as one of the best zoos in the world. The zoo is home to more than 3500 animals representing 650 species, including more than 700000 plant species. In addition to leading the way in conservation research and species preservation, the San Diego Zoo offers beautiful open-air, cageless exhibits that can be viewed up close and personal.

 

Although it is best to spend all day at the zoo, a half-day visit is possible as well. There are a number of things you can do to make your visit to the San Diego Zoo as enjoyable as possible, regardless of how long you spend there. The below links may compensate me if you purchase tickets through them.

 

San Diego Zoo Preparation Tips

Over the years, we have visited the San Diego Zoo many times. Prior to the birth of my daughter, my husband and I owned annual passes. It's important to arrive prepared, we can say with confidence.

 

SAN DIEGO ZOO HOURS

San Diego Zoo hours are daily, including holidays. If you visit during the winter Jungle Bells event or during the summer Night Zoo event, the opening and closing hours will be extended until after sunset.

 

In the present, when the zoo has limited capacity, the best times to visit are when it opens in the morning and after lunch in the afternoon during the week. Over the weekend in October, the best times to go are in the early mornings and in the evenings. The San Diego Zoo offers free admission to kids ages 11 and under in October, so attendance is higher than usual. Around 11 a.m.-1 p.m. is the busiest time.

 

SAN DIEGO ZOO PARKING

Guests of the San Diego Zoo are welcome to park for free. Considering the lot is large, take a photo of the section your car is in so you won't forget where it is.

 

PREPARE FOR SUN AND WALKING

Some areas of the zoo are shaded by being a botanical garden, but not all. It is therefore necessary to wear sunscreen no matter what the weather or season may be. It is a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and extra sunscreen with you.

 

Although some parts of the zoo can be hilly, this makes it convenient for strollers (which explains why many people jog and walk at the zoo in the morning). Even with the Kangaroo Bus and the Skyfari tram, you will still need comfortable walking shoes.

 

A SAN DIEGO ZOO MAP IS AVAILABLE ON THE APP

GPS-enabled map is also included in the San Diego Zoo app. In keeping with the zoo's mission to reduce waste, this allows you to go paperless by avoiding the paper map that most guests take. It is currently closed for renovations, but there are still a lot of things to see.

 

ADVANCED LOCKERS, STROLLERS, AND MORE

In addition to strollers (single and double), quarter-operated lockers, and wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs are also available for rent. There is also a $15 per piece charge for storing luggage that won't fit into lockers. Near the entrance is Front Street Rentals where you can find them all.

 

Aside from the annual galas and sleepovers, Inside Look Tours and upgrades to animal experiences are featured daily.

 

Occasionally, the zoo offers special family activities and performances during school vacation weeks and holiday breaks. San Diego Zoo app users can find this information as well.

 

Zoo giraffe feeding

Visit the San Diego Zoo behind the scenes for some upgraded experiences.

 

To maximize your time and enjoyment, arrive early

One of my top tips for visiting the San Diego Zoo during peak season is to arrive early if you're pressed for time.

 

If you want to avoid the lines that will form later in the day, get there early and take the 35-minute bus tour first (when available) at the zoo (even if there are crowds).

 

The Sunrise Surprise Stroll and other enhanced experiences begin before the zoo opens. There is generally a 9 a.m. opening time at the San Diego Zoo (check on the day of your visit).

 

Mornings are the busiest times for animals. It is also more likely that you will see the zoo's animals at their most active if you get there when it opens. Some of them are also fed around this time by the keepers.

 

TIP:

 

Each month, Zoo Keepers Club members receive early access to the Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Visit during the week if possible

In typical San Diego fashion, the Zoo is less crowded during the week than on weekends. Remember that field trips may be the primary reason for crowds on weekdays. Due to current reduced capacity and increased health and safety measures, weekends are subject to wait times during Kids Free October.