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San Francisco Zoo: A World of Wildlife by the Ocean

Discover a world of wildlife and tranquil gardens at the San Francisco Zoo, a beloved destination for animal lovers of all ages.

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The San Francisco Zoo, nestled between Lake Merced and the Pacific Ocean, has been a beloved Bay Area destination since 1929. Home to over 2,000 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals across 100 acres, the zoo offers a diverse collection of wildlife and tranquil gardens.

A brief summary to San Francisco Zoo

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Dress in layers, as the ocean breeze can make it chilly, even on sunny days.
  • Take Muni to the Zoo and receive a $1 discount off the price of admission; show your same-day Muni receipt, transfer, or monthly pass at the ticket window.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Check the zoo's daily calendar for special presentations, animal talks, and live demonstrations to enhance your visit.
  • Don't miss the Sculpture Learning Plaza to be inspired and find connections to the amazing variety of life on Earth.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, the most convenient way to reach the San Francisco Zoo is via the Muni. Take the L Taraval line outbound directly to the Zoo. Alternatively, the Muni bus lines 23 and 18 also stop at the Zoo. A single ride on Muni costs $3, and visitors who show a same-day Muni receipt, transfer, or monthly pass at the ticket window receive a $1 discount off admission.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a direct route to the San Francisco Zoo. The designated drop-off and pick-up location is off Sloat Boulevard at 47th Avenue, near the zoo's entrance. A typical ride from Union Square to the zoo costs between $30 and $40, depending on traffic and demand. Note that there are no ride-share pick-ups or drop-offs in the paid parking lot.

  • Driving

    If driving, there are two entrances to the Zoo's parking lot: one off the Great Highway and one off Sloat Boulevard at 47th Avenue. Parking costs $11 on weekdays and $13 on weekends and holidays. Payment can be made at the ticket office windows, the Little Puffer Train station, the Denzel Carousel ticket booth, or the main gift shop in Entry Village. Free street parking is also available along Sloat Boulevard, but it can be limited.

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Discover more about San Francisco Zoo

The San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, located where Sloat Boulevard meets the Great Highway, offers a captivating experience where visitors can explore a diverse collection of animals and plants. Since its official establishment in 1929 as the Herbert Fleishhacker Zoo, named after its founder, the zoo has evolved into a leading center for animal care, conservation, and community engagement. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 250 species, many of which are endangered or rescued. Exhibits like the African Savanna, Lemur Forest, and Penguin Island offer immersive experiences, allowing visitors to observe animals in naturalistic settings. The zoo also features peaceful gardens with native and foreign plants, adding to the beauty of this urban oasis. Throughout its history, the San Francisco Zoo has been committed to providing innovative, bar-less exhibits, and has evolved to prioritize conservation and education. Visitors can learn about wildlife through daily presentations, animal talks, and live demonstrations. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Giraffe Lodge for an up-close encounter with these gentle giants or step into the South American Tropical Rainforest & Aviary. The zoo also offers a children's zoo, a playground, a carousel, and a miniature steam train, making it a perfect destination for families.

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