We came here on a Monday (3/25) and spent the day at the zoo. San Diego Zoo ranks as one of the top 10 zoos in the world and perhaps top 2 or 3 in the United States behind Henry Doorly in Omaha and Bronx Zoo. We got here about 15 minutes before opening and was able to get a parking spot pretty close to the entry gate.

Once inside, our first stop was the bus tour which takes you around the park. The driver is also the narrator and provided riders with notable information about the park and animals throughout the zoo. This bus experience is a definite 5/5.

We also rode the Skyfari - a short gondola ride that takes you across the park. You’re able to get a Birds Eye view of the park from above which was fun. The ride itself lasts about 8 - 10 minutes. This experience is a solid 5/5.

We also bought tickets to the Bear and the Squirrel 4D show. Ticket prices were about $8 per person. The show is an animation that runs about 15 minutes or so. Unfortunately this experience was a complete dud and fell short of expectations. IMO, this should be included as part of the zoo ticket price. It’s geared more for little kids and not very exciting for older kids and adults. This experience was a 2/5.

The rest of the park was very very nice. Plenty of animals to see. The park itself is beautiful, well taken care of by the zoo keepers. Expect to do a lot of walking. The paper map itself is a bit confusing to follow. You’re better off downloading the app and using the map on the phone with real time location turned on so you can see exactly where you are at all times.

The food at the park is expensive but that’s expected. Food at venues like these will cost about 50% more compared to eateries outside the park. The food was not particularly bad; quite yummy and hits the spot when you’re hungry. Food will set you back about $18-$24 per person. Drinks are equally expensive. An icee will set you back about $13. Each refill is about $5. Sodas and water are about $10/each. Food rating is about a 4/5 only because of the high price and will be cost prohibitive for folks on a budget.

Overall experience at the San Diego Zoo is a 4.5/5. Except for the 4D experience and the high food prices, everything was amazing. Only do the 4D if you have little kids probably 10 and under. The experience is probably valued at $5 at most but should be free IMO as part of the cost of entry. Tickets are about $67+ which is on the higher side and unfortunately may be out of reach for most household.

Compared to other zoos I’ve been to (e.g. San Francisco, Sacramento, Safari Park), San Diego zoo ranks at the top. If you visit SD zoo, consider a visit on a weekday when it’s less crowded (I hear weekends can be crowded!). Hit the bus tour first followed by the Skyfari to get a Birds Eye view of the park. Then take your time and walk the park, soak in the sight and the sounds, and appreciate all the specular animals at the park. Pack a lunch if you’re looking to keep your expenses down otherwise expect to pay a premium.

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