It is one of the best and certainly most famous Zoos in the world. It is well known for it's emphasis on
conservation and education. It is also a recognized leader in new approaches to zoo management that allow for
humane care and treatment of the animals as well as allowing for a fun and intriguing experience for human visitors.
The zoo is a very family-oriented experience. Kids and adults will enjoy the many specialized environments recreated
within the confines of the zoo. These include an African Jungle, a South East Asian jungle river (Tiger River), a huge
tropical Aviary, an Arctic Environment, and much more.
You can spend several days at the zoo just walking through each of the exhibit areas yourself, or take one of several tours. There is a short 40 minute bus tour covering just the highlights of the zoo. Groups of 15 or more can arrange for specialized tours. There is even a tram that goes directly over the zoo for a spectacular aerial view of the entire zoo.
There are also several shows featuring the animals, and allowing for visitor participation.
There are five restaurants featuring excellent food and seven shops with unique array of things from around the world.
The park is generally open from 9am to 4pm every day except Summer when it remains open till 9pm. General admission is $21 for adults, an $14 for children under 11. Children under 2 are free. There is a Best Value ticket that includes use of the Tram, the Bus Tour, and the Express Bus at $32.00 for adults and $19.75 for children.
If you also plan to visit the Wild Animal Park, you can purchase a Two-Park ticket at $52.65 for adults, and $35.35 for children. These tickets must be used within 5 days of purchase.
The San Diego Zoo is located on Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, just north of downtown San Diego. The mailing address
is
P.O. Box 120551,
San Diego, CA 92112-0551.
The street address is:
2920 Zoo Drive,
San Diego, CA 92101.
For general information please call (619) 234-3153.
Directions from the NORTH (southbound): From Interstate 5 (Los Angeles and Orange County), take the Pershing Drive exit and follow the signs. From Interstate 15 (Escondido and Riverside), take SR 163 south to the Park Blvd./I-5 South exit. Exit at Park Blvd. Turn left on Park Blvd. and head north; Zoo entrance is off Park Blvd at Zoo Place.
Park Phone: (619) 234-3153.