The San Diego Zoo, spanning 100 acres in Balboa Park, is home to over 12,000 animals from 650+ species, making it one of the world’s most diverse zoos. Established in 1916, it features large, naturalistic habitats and innovative exhibits. Dedicated to conservation and education, it attracts millions of visitors annually, offering an immersive experience that can take a full day to explore.
The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Visit the San Diego Zoo
Discover the San Diego Zoo, a premier wildlife sanctuary in Balboa Park, home to over 12,000 animals from 650+ species, including our cherished Giant Pandas. Witness these gentle giants in a lush, bamboo-filled habitat designed to mimic their native environment. The San Diego Zoo offers an unforgettable adventure and a chance to connect with nature in the heart of San Diego.
San Diego Zoo
Exploring the San Diego Zoo
Giant Panda
Pandas at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo has cared for pandas since 1987, beginning with Basi and Yuan Yuan. In 1996, Bai Yun and Shi Shi arrived under a conservation partnership with China, leading to the creation of the Giant Panda Research Station. After the partnership ended in 2019, all pandas returned to China. In 2024, the zoo welcomed new pandas, Xin Bao and Yun Chuan, to continue its conservation efforts.
San Diego Zoo
Activities at the San Diego Zoo
A visit to the San Diego Zoo, just a short drive from downtown hotels, offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the 4D Theater, the Guided Bus Tour for easy exploration, and the charming Balboa Park Miniature Train for family fun. Kids can climb, splash and play in running streams and spray jets in Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Don't miss the Skyfari Aerial Tram for breathtaking views of the zoo and San Diego.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, just 45 minutes away, offers a thrilling wildlife experience across 1,800 acres. Home to over 3,000 animals from 300+ species, many roam freely in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can enjoy guided safaris, behind-the-scenes tours, zip line adventures, lush botanical gardens, interactive exhibits, and conservation programs focused on endangered species preservation.
Zoo
Animals at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo offers an unforgettable experience with a wide variety of animals. See elephants, giraffes, and Amur leopards up close. Watch polar bears at play, eagles in flight, and reptiles in their habitats. Encounter rhinos, koalas, and primates. Each exhibit showcases the rich diversity of wildlife, with engaging experiences and educational programs for all ages.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo Upgraded Experiences
Experience the San Diego Zoo with exclusive VIP packages and private group outings. Enjoy a rare opportunity to see giant pandas before the Zoo opens and meet them up close. Take part in private animal encounters and guided tours, offering a deeper connection with wildlife. Dive into interactive and exclusive experiences, perfect for those seeking unforgettable moments with animals.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo Upgraded Experiences
Experience the San Diego Zoo with exclusive VIP packages. Enjoy a rare chance to see giant pandas before the Zoo opens and meet them up close. Whether for private group outings, offsite meetings, or events, immerse yourself in upclose animal encounters, guided tours, and interactive experiences—perfect for creating unforgettable moments with wildlife.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo Upgraded Experiences
Experience the San Diego Zoo with exclusive VIP packages. Enjoy a rare opportunity to see giant pandas before the Zoo opens and meet them up close. Take part in private animal encounters and guided tours, offering a deeper connection with wildlife. Dive into interactive and exclusive experiences, perfect for those seeking unforgettable moments with animals.
Visit San Diego Zoo at Balboa Park
Visit San Diego Zoo at Balboa Park
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San Diego Zoo Skyfari® Aerial Tram
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Balboa Park
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San Diego Zoo Hummingbird Habitat
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Learn More About The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
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Exceptional Concierge Service
Buy San Diego Zoo Tickets
The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter’s concierge offers personalized service for reservations, local tips, and transportation, ensuring a seamless San Diego visit. Hotel guests are encouraged to contact the Concierge at 1-619-610-8925 to purchase San Diego Zoo tickets and start planning your stay.
The San Diego Zoo is open from 9:00am - 9:00pm daily
- Adult (Ages 12+): $74
- Child (Ages 3-11): $64
- Includes access to the zoo, Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences. Valid any day within one year from purchase. No reservation needed.
- 1-Day Pass – Value Days:
- Adult (Ages 12+): $70
- Child (Ages 3-11): $60
- Includes the same experiences as the Any Day pass. Valid on select Value Days (check calendar) within one year from purchase. No reservation needed. Advance purchase required online.
- To learn more, please visit the San Diego Zoo's ticket page.
The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park at 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
The Westin Gaslamp Hotel is approximately 2.5 miles from the San Diego Zoo. The drive typically takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Parking is FREE. In addition to the parking lot in the front, visitors have access to parking at Balboa Park.
The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer unique experiences. The Zoo, located in Balboa Park, showcases a diverse animal collection in naturalistic habitats, providing close-up encounters. The Safari Park, in Escondido, emphasizes a more open, African-inspired setting with larger enclosures, offering an immersive safari experience. Consider your preferences: the Zoo for traditional zoo experiences and the Safari Park for adventurous safaris.
The San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre wildlife park and is one of the largest zoos in the world.
Yes, the San Diego Zoo currently has pandas. Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, a male and female panda pair, made their public debut in August 2024. They reside in the newly renovated Panda Ridge habitat.