• Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

• Phone: (619) 231-1515

• Website: http://zoo.sandiegozoo.org

• Pricing: $$$

• Hours: 9am- 6pm daily

 

Description: Disclaimer, I am not in to zoo's, I think animals should be free but if there is a blueprint for what a zoo should look like- this is it! The animals have the space and resources they need to live a happy life. The only better example I've seen of this situation is their partners at San Diego's Wild Animal Park- where the animals literally roam free. But as far as zoo's goes this is the one you want to take your children to. All the animals seem really well cared for. The elephants have a gigantic habitat for them to roam around. There is every type of animal you ever wanted to see and some you never even knew existed at this place. From polar bears, to hippo's, to various monkeys, snakes, panda bears, giraffes- you name it, they got it. The birds themselves get to fly around a whole aviary- that's so big you literally can get lost in it (believe me- I have). There are many ways to get around the park- lots of walking on foot, tour buses, and sky carriers. Many places everywhere to pick up food or souvenirs (maybe too many places for souvenirs). The zoo is obviously located in San Diego not the Bay Area which is why it is listed as a"Beyond the Bay" destination.

 

Highlights: The panda bears are really cute and also most zoos do not have them so they are a real treat! The elephant exhibit is really nice to see because it is rare you find zoos where the elephants have that much room to roam.

 

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes!!!!! I can not stress this enough, even in your most comfortable running shoes, your feet are still going to ache at the end of the day-this park is almost 100 acres of walking! Pick up a tour bus or the sky rider across the park- you won't regret getting off of your feet for  awhile. Also wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You are walking around for a very long time and for the most part it is all sunny!