San Diego Zoo - Balboa Park (2024)

FAQs

How long is enough for San Diego Zoo? ›

We recommend spending a minimum of four to six hours to see some of the Zoo and a minimum of four to six hours at each park to experience the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park. The drive time between the two parks is about 45 minutes to one hour, depending on traffic and other factors.

Weekdays (Monday-Friday) are historically least crowded during the summer season in June, July, and August. Weekends tend to attract more tourists and vacationers.

You can see the Zoo and Balboa Park in one day. Look for parking in the lots by the carousel and Natural History Museum. If you don't see anything there, then just park in the zoo's lot. It's not that far to walk over to the Japanese Friendship Garden from the zoo.

I recommend that you spend a whole day exploring the Zoo, but it is possible to enjoy a half-day here. The tips for visiting the San Diego Zoo that I share below will make your visit a great one no matter how much time you spend there or when you visit.

Most people will visit the zoo in one day, but if you want to make the most of it, it's big enough to allow for two days with plenty of time to enjoy some of the special events and take breaks to rest in between exhibits. Here are some more tips for a better San Diego Zoo visit.

The zoo allows outside food so pack snacks and a picnic lunch if you want to avoid paying for food in the zoo. Hydrate. Bring a water bottle or purchase a souvenir fountain drink cup with a straw and lid for discounted re-fills all day.

60-90 Minute Tour

Here are some of Balboa Park's must-see spots.

To avoid large crowds, visit San Diego Zoo during non-peak times. Typically, fall and winter tend to be less congested and summer and holidays bring the greatest crowds. Weekdays, and non- holidays and early morning times are generally less crowded.

Regardless of the time of year, the best time of day to visit is in the morning as the animals tend to be most active then, before the temperatures reach afternoon highs. Tip: To avoid crowds, plan to visit the park on a weekday if possible.

Wear Walking Shoes

The San Diego Zoo has a lot of walking and hills. Be prepared for climbing or plan to use some of the park transportation options.

Does San Diego Zoo worth it? ›

Travelers almost unanimously agree that the San Diego Zoo is the best zoo they have ever visited. Recent visitors were impressed with the vast number of animals on display and the various activities.

Guests ages 65 and up with a valid photo ID receive free admission all month long. Parking is not included.

Head out on this 2.0-mile loop trail near San Diego, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 46 min to complete.

On this 90-minute safari, you'll venture into habitats representing Africa and/or Asia for up-close views of giraffes, rhinos, and many other species. Enjoy amazing photo opportunities while learning about how caring for wildlife here helps us to conserve wildlife around the world.

We recommend approximately three hours to see the entire Zoo, depending on the size and ages of your group and how fast you walk. Because we create exhibits that replicate the animals' natural habitats, some animals can be difficult to see and visitors may be required to spend more time in observation.

Regardless of the time of year, the best time of day to visit is in the morning as the animals tend to be most active then, before the temperatures reach afternoon highs. Tip: To avoid crowds, plan to visit the park on a weekday if possible.