The San Diego Zoo is world renowned for its authentic enclosures, humane animal keeping and conservation research, making it a vacation must-see. Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo features more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals, as well as live shows and interactive entertainment.
Head out early in the morning when the animals are most active and the free parking in front of the zoo is plentiful. Once in the zoo, take the Skyfari aerial tram to the back of the park, where you can work your way forward on the mostly downhill terrain. Grab lunch at one of the many cafes around the park or pack a sack lunch; just remember, large coolers are not allowed. End your day near the front of the park at the petting zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with a pygmy goat, and roam free at the nearby Discovery Playground.
Numerous ticket discounts are available online, so do your research before hopping in the car.
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