Highlights
1-Day admission with Guided Bus Tour (≈35 min, first-come, no strollers onboard) and Skyfari® Aerial Tram; plus regularly scheduled presentations/exhibits during operating hours.
About this experience
One of the world’s great zoos: 100 acres of canyon-and-ridge paths, treetop views, and animal habitats right inside Balboa Park. Plan a full day—start with the narrated bus tour, then use the Skyfari tram to hop between zones.
What's included
- 1-Day admission with Guided Bus Tour (≈35 min, first-come, no strollers onboard) and Skyfari® Aerial Tram; plus regularly scheduled presentations/exhibits during operating hours.
Who it's for
- All ages; great for families and first-timers. Step-free routes and accessibility services available. (Ask at Guest Services.)
What you'll do
- Enter on Front Street → take the Guided Bus Tour for the overview → ride Skyfari over the canopy → walk headline areas like Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, Elephant Odyssey, Africa Rocks, and Polar Bear Plunge. Allow 4—6 hours.
Before you go
- Hours vary by date; commonly 9:00—17:00 (check the calendar).
- Bags: small backpacks/bags allowed; lockers available near Front Street. Avoid bringing large luggage/coolers/glass.
Good to know
- Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Balboa Park). Parking is free at the Zoo.
- Scale: 12,000+ animals / 680+ species and a 700,000-plant accredited botanical garden—bring water and comfy shoes.
Why this is worth it
Iconic, big, and easy to navigate: bus first, Skyfari next, then pick your favorites. Book the Any-Day ticket and you’re sorted.