San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo occupies roughly 100 acres of hillside and canyon at 2920 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, in the heart of San Diego, California. It is one of the best-known zoological gardens in the United States and is organized around themed habitats that follow the contours of the park rather than a flat grid, so the day involves steady walking up and down slopes. Well-known areas include Panda Canyon, Elephant Odyssey, Africa Rocks, Polar Rim, Lost Forest and the Australian Outback, with thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. The zoo is also known for its botanical collection, and many pathways pass through mature palms, bamboo, cycads and flowering shrubs that give the grounds an arboretum feel. Transport options inside the zoo help with the terrain. The Skyfari aerial tram carries visitors across the park between the east and west sides, the double-decker guided bus tour covers a large portion of the grounds with narration, and the Kangaroo Bus is a hop-on, hop-off service. Typical visits run five to seven hours, and families with young children often plan a full day with a midday break. Weekday mornings outside school holidays are the quietest; the first hour after opening is best for seeing active animals before the midday heat sends many of them into shade. Weekends, summer and holiday weeks bring the largest crowds, with queues at the entrance, the Skyfari and popular exhibits. Photographers do well at the Skyfari for aerial views of the zoo and the Balboa Park skyline, and at the large-animal habitats where viewing glass and elevated overlooks provide clear sight lines. Food is available at multiple cafes and kiosks inside, and pricing is typical of a major attraction. One-day tickets cost in the high $70s for adults, with lower child pricing and free entry for children under three, and online purchase is usually cheaper than buying at the gate. Parking is available on site for a fee, and the zoo is also reachable by bus from downtown and by the Balboa Park shuttle. Because the layout is large, many visitors choose a priority list of habitats and then add extras as energy allows. Comfortable shoes, sun protection and a refillable water bottle are standard advice, particularly during summer, when inland heat is noticeable even with the coastal influence.