Special
Zoo Activities
¡Bienvenidos!
(para español oprima aquí)
Guided Bus Tour
Zoo attractions
Guided Bus Tour: Enjoy a 35-minute tour on a double-decked bus covering about 75 percent of the San Diego Zoo. Your bus tour ticket also includes use of the Express Bus, double- or single-decked buses with green signs on the sides that allow guests to hop on and off at five different stops throughout the Zoo. The Express buses pass by the stops every 20 minutes or less and provide transportation around the Zoo. Bus Tour tickets are included in the Best Value Admission price; they are not included in the General Admission price but may be purchased for $10 per adult, $7 per child ages 3–11. Members pay $8.50 per adult, $5 per child.
Guided Bus Tours in Spanish and French are available for groups of 20 or more with advanced notice. There are ASL "signed" bus tours available for the hearing impaired; please call in advance to arrange for an interpreter: 619-231-1515, ext. 4318.
Skyfari aerial tram
Skyfari aerial tram: Take an airborne shortcut over the treetops to the other end of the Zoo and enjoy spectacular views of the Zoo, its animal and plant collection, and surrounding Balboa Park (children under 8 must be accompanied by adults). 10 a.m.–4:15 p.m. daily, longer hours during the summer season. Adult/child is $3 each way; members ride free.
Balboa Park Miniature Railroad
Balboa Park Miniature Railroad: All aboard! The Balboa Park Miniature Railroad is now operated by the San Diego Zoo. The train pulls out of the station for 3-minute rides around a portion of Balboa Park. Operating hours are 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m. daily during the summer, and 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m. on weekends and school holidays. The train station is just east of the Zoo’s exit. Train tickets are $2 for ages 1 and up; under age 1 is free. For safety reasons, ages 5 and under must ride with a paying adult.
Special Tours: Take your group of 15 or more people on a special tour! These guided tours are offered with various topics to suit your group's interests. Call Reservation Sales at 619-718-3000 or 800-407-9534 to get pricing for your group size.
V.I.P. Tours: Take a 2 1/2-hour tour with a guide and explore behind-the-scenes areas in a private cart or bus. We'll customize the tour to meet your special interests as much as possible. Call 619-718-3000 or 800-407-9534 for prices and availability.
Zoo programs
Art Classes for children and adults: Our popular art teacher offers a variety of classes throughout the year.
Sunrise Surprise Strolls: Adults can enjoy up-to-the-minute Zoo encounters that change each month.
Summer Camp: Kids in grades K–7 can explore the wonderful world of animals through five-day adventures. Winter Camp and Spring Camp are also offered.
Parent-participation Programs: KinderNights allows youngsters ages 3–6 to wear their comfy PJs, bring their cuddliest stuffed critter, and snuggle up with their favorite grownup while meeting some special critters, learning fun stuff, and munching on a bedtime snack. A morning version is also available during select months.
Sleepovers: Spend the night at the Zoo during one of our many themed overnight adventures. Safari Sleepovers are offered July and August; specially themed sleepovers for Halloween, Mother's Day, and Father's Day are also offered. Visit our Upcoming Events page for dates, pricing, and availability or call 619-718-3000 or 800-407-9534.
Special Speakers: Wildlife experts share their stories during these presentations, offered throughout the year.
