09/26/08

Expensive and pretty boring

by skhi

The cost ($28) for general entrance, $2.99 for a small bottle of water and $6.99 for a basic hamburger is too expensive for a few hours of wandering around a park with less than adequate signage and only a few actual "rare" animals. They had much more fun interactivity back in the late 1980's - maybe they should consider their audience when making changes to the park. I came across more than a few older folks that looked like they were about to have a heart attack from walking in circles unable to understand the signs. I'd go to Sea World if I were you.

10/11/07

Best zoo anywhere - world famous.

by walker_s

The San Diego Zoo is constantly being renewed with special exhibits and programs. Different kinds of programs are offered throughout the year. Last week my wife and I enjoyed a "Sunrise Surprise Stroll". It was a guided walk, 7:30-9:00am, giving us adults an up-close, behind the scenes look before the zoo opened to the public. We were a group of about 30 people with a very enjoyable funny guide who knew the Zoo inside out. We went to two locations and talked to the keeper at each. I have been going to the Zoo for years but this really was fun and opened a whole new dimension. The keepers are highly trained professions with years of experience and love their job. If you are interested in this guided tour act quickly because those 30 openings fill up fast. Tell them CitySearch sent you.

Did you know that the plant collection at the zoo is actually more valuable than the animals? Check out the web logs by the zoo's horticulturists, arborists, and gardeners.

I've been a member of the zoo for many years. It's one of the best bargains in San Diego. You get free admission for a whole year and many others things. My wife and I go just when the zoo opens, walk for about 4 hours and then leave for some other activities. A membership is a very enjoyable way to start a Saturday. www.sandiegozoo.o...

Oh, and by the way, TripAdvisor just voted our "San Diego Zoo" as the #10 U.S. tourist attraction. (Sure, I know! Why not #1?) It's in good company: Orlando, Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas, Hana Highway Maui, Grand Canyon, Central Park, Alcatraz, Top of the Rock Observation Deck NY, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bellagio Fountains Las Vegas.

• Pros: Top 10 US attraction
• Cons: None

11/24/06

fun with the animals

by greymouse26

This a wonderful zoo. I love watching the polar bears swimming around their tank. The reptile house was a bit nerve racking for me because I really don't like snakes, but they had a wide variety of species. I really love to go watch the elephants and the giraffes. The employees were very friendly and helpful. The zoo is so large that it is difficult to see all of it in one day. The food is a bit overpriced.

• Pros: lots of parking
• Cons: can be crowded

11/24/06

Penguins, Polar bears, Primates, and so much more!

by dmenkes

It's extremely difficult if not entirely impossible to see everything here in a day. Their penguin exhibit was really cool, and it's neat to see the polar bears swim. There's alot of walking so you should wear really comfy shoes.

10/31/06

great zoo!

by binman69

there is so much to see and do. i took my mom here and she loved it. it is good for dates. lots of areas to walk, eat and view animals. very well designed zoo

09/07/06

World-famous zoo is home to over 4,000 rare and endangered plant and animal species, plus food, educational programs and more.

by Contributor

In Short
Everything here--from the striking animal habitats among the terrain's natural canyons to the directional signs that reveal a unified and understated aesthetic--is expertly crafted. Stamina is essential for taking it all in: Open-air trams and a Skyfari ride aren't bad ways to see the sights, but on foot is best. With more than 500 animal species on hand (many of them constantly whooping it up), as well as 6,500 plant species, you'll need more than one visit to really appreciate the zoo's exotic charms. With or without children, the Children's Zoo is delightful and unique. While many exhibits are kid-sized and kid-oriented, everyone will enjoy the Animal Nursery, with its diaper-clad primates, and the petting paddock, where you can pet, scratch and tickle a variety of docile animals. Animal caretakers often bring out baby animals for public display.

04/12/03

:)

by MNdubi

The zoo grounds are quite hilly so have your walking shoes on. Its very easy to find your way around and the trip is well worth the price. There is SO much to do and see. Very, very fun!

• Pros: variety
• Cons: hilly

08/26/02

The BEST!

by erin

I used to live in San Diego, so going to the Zoo is one of my favorite childhood memories. This is by far the biggest, cleanest zoo in the States with the most animals. There's so much to see and so much to do. After seeing and playing with all the animals, you can walk through the rain forests, take a bus tour, ride the sky ride, it really is a lot of fun. There's a lot of good food, and gift shops. Visit the gift store right by the entrance if you like jelly beans, they have a variety of about 40 flavors you can mix and match for yourself. The San Diego Zoo is worth every cent!

05/20/02

Best Zoo in the Country

by MicheleMoss_Citysearch

This zoo has set the standard for zoos the world over. Nothing compares to the landscaping, enclosures and the variety of species. Bird and mammal shows are entertaining and educational. It's impossible to see everything in one day, but it's money well spent. Besides giving visitors an eye and earful, the behind-the-scenes research and conservation efforts are most impressive. The location in Balboa Park, lends to a great opportunity to spend a full day at the zoo and then head to the Gas Lamp District downtown for a nice meal before heading home.

• Pros: Natural Enclosures, Shows, Location
• Cons: Crowded