Discover the Wonders of the San Diego Zoo
Explore the San Diego Zoo, a premier wildlife sanctuary featuring over 3,500 animals and immersive exhibits in beautiful Balboa Park.
The San Diego Zoo, nestled in Balboa Park, is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary, offering an immersive experience with over 3,500 animals and stunning gardens. This iconic attraction is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike, providing educational exhibits and unforgettable encounters with a diverse array of species from around the globe.
A brief summary to San Diego Zoo
- 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-231-1515
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your day.
- Check the schedule for animal presentations and feeding times for the best experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot throughout the zoo.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially during the summer months.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
Getting There
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Bus
From Tijuana, head to the main bus terminal, Terminal de Autobuses de Tijuana. Take the bus to San Diego, which typically departs every 30 minutes. Tell the driver or ticket agent that you want to go to the San Diego Zoo. The bus will drop you off at the San Ysidro border crossing. After crossing the border into San Diego, continue on the bus to the downtown area. Once in downtown San Diego, transfer to the MTS Trolley at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Blue Line towards UC San Diego. Get off at the 'City College' station. From there, transfer to bus number 7 or 120, which will take you directly to the San Diego Zoo.
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Taxi/Rideshare
If you prefer a direct route, you can take a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) from your location in Tijuana to the San Diego Zoo. The driver will take you to the San Ysidro border crossing. Once you cross into the U.S., the driver will continue to the zoo. Make sure to specify the address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. The trip duration can vary, so be sure to check the expected travel time on the app.
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Walking and Trolley
If you are feeling adventurous and want to experience the local area, you can walk to the border crossing at San Ysidro. After passing through customs, turn left and walk to the Trolley Station at San Ysidro. Take the MTS Trolley Blue Line towards UC San Diego. Get off at 'City College' station, then transfer to bus number 7 or 120, which will take you to the San Diego Zoo. This option allows you to enjoy the surrounding area but requires a bit more time and planning.
Discover more about San Diego Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of Charm
0.5 km
Discover the historic House of Charm in Balboa Park, San Diego: home to art, culture, and architectural beauty, showcasing the city's rich heritage and vibrant artistic community.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.6 km
Explore the serene Casa del Rey Moro Garden in Balboa Park, San Diego—a tranquil escape featuring lush landscapes and cultural heritage.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.6 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
Casa de Balboa
0.6 km
Explore the stunning Casa de Balboa in San Diego's Balboa Park, a historical landmark showcasing the city's rich culture and architectural beauty.
Balboa Park
0.6 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.7 km
Explore the tranquility and beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum in San Diego, a cultural gem that celebrates harmony and nature.
House of England
0.8 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
Marston House
0.9 km
Explore Marston House in San Diego for a captivating journey through early 20th-century architecture and rich local history amidst beautiful gardens.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
1.1 km
Explore the wonders of aviation and space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where history meets innovation in a stunning setting.
Coulter House
1.2 km
Explore the historical charm of Coulter House in San Diego, a stunning landmark near the iconic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, revealing the city's rich past.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
1.4 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Long-Waterman House
1.4 km
Explore the Long-Waterman House, a historical landmark in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where timeless architecture meets lush gardens and rich history.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.4 km
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Amici House
2.0 km
Discover the Italian heritage of San Diego at Amici House, a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the Italian community.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
2.0 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Botanical Building
0.4 km
Discover the Botanical Building in Balboa Park, a stunning architectural gem showcasing diverse plant life and serene landscapes in San Diego.
Balboa Park Carousel
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting charm of the historic Balboa Park Carousel, a beloved ride in the heart of San Diego's cultural treasure.
The San Diego Museum of Art
0.4 km
Discover the cultural heart of San Diego at The San Diego Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of world-renowned art.
The Old Globe
0.4 km
Discover the magic of theater at The Old Globe in Balboa Park, San Diego, where world-class productions meet stunning surroundings.
Spanish Village Art Center
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park, a cultural oasis filled with local art, galleries, and workshops in San Diego.
Timken Museum of Art
0.5 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park, where stunning European and American masterpieces await in a serene, free-entry setting.
California Tower
0.5 km
Explore the California Tower in Balboa Park, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of San Diego.
Museum of Us
0.5 km
Explore the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, where culture and anthropology unite to offer an immersive journey through the history of humanity.
ICA San Diego / Central
0.5 km
Discover contemporary creativity and cultural dialogue at ICA San Diego, a vibrant art center in the heart of Balboa Park.
San Diego Natural History Museum
0.5 km
Discover the natural wonders of California at the San Diego Natural History Museum, where science meets adventure in the heart of Balboa Park.
Casa Del Prado
0.5 km
Explore Spanish Colonial Revival architecture & vibrant cultural scene at Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park. A historic landmark with youth arts & gardens.
Mingei International Museum
0.5 km
Discover the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, where folk art and craftsmanship from around the world come to life in an inspiring setting.
Plaza de Panama
0.5 km
Explore the iconic Plaza de Panama at Balboa Park, a cultural and historical landmark in San Diego, filled with art, gardens, and captivating architecture.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.6 km
Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
Alcázar Garden
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and stunning Spanish-inspired architecture.
Essential places to dine
Albert's Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Safari Kitchen
0.2 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Sweet Shack
0.2 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Sabertooth Grill
0.2 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Panama 66
0.5 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Prado
0.6 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Parc Bistro-Brasserie
0.9 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
Mister A's
1.0 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning views at Mister A's in San Diego - where American meets French cuisine.
Trust
1.2 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
RustiCucina
1.4 km
Discover RustiCucina in San Diego for an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
insideOUT
1.4 km
Discover insideOUT in Hillcrest: A vibrant restaurant offering exquisite Mediterranean dishes and an inviting lounge atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Hob Nob Hill
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
The Balboa
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.8 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Panda Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
Sydney's Shoppe
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Tusker's Trunk
0.3 km
Uncover unique wildlife-themed souvenirs and gifts at Tusker's Trunk, the charming shop in San Diego Zoo, perfect for all ages.
Arctic Trader
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Bibliotique
0.5 km
Explore Bibliotique in Balboa Park, San Diego for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs reflecting the local culture.
North Star Science Store
0.7 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.8 km
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Stroll
2.0 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Rosamariposa
2.0 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
2.1 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Gold Leaf
2.1 km
Explore Gold Leaf in South Park, San Diego - a charming gift shop offering unique home goods, children's toys, and stylish furniture for every taste.
Bad Madge & Co.
2.2 km
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The Gold Dust Collective
2.4 km
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The Cave of Wonders
2.4 km
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Hunt & Gather
2.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.4 km
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The Corner Drafthouse
1.0 km
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Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
1.5 km
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Whistle Stop Bar
2.1 km
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Part Time Lover
2.4 km
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False Idol
2.4 km
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The Office Bar
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Office Bar in North Park, San Diego, known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Vin de Syrah
2.5 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Gaslamp Tavern, where great food and sports combine in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Room 56
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Trailer Park After Dark
2.6 km
Discover the quirky charm of Trailer Park After Dark, a unique bar and restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offering creative cocktails and delicious food.
Star Bar
2.6 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Tipsy Crow
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Noble Experiment
2.7 km
Discover Noble Experiment, an upscale speakeasy bar in San Diego offering craft cocktails and a unique prohibition-era experience in a hidden setting.
Neighborhood
2.7 km
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