With more than 4000 animals on more than 100 acres the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest and definitely most well known Zoo in North America.
Because of the large size of this Zoo there are several different touring options to maximize your visit and limit the pain to your feet from traversing the more than 100 acres.
The Guided Bus Tour, which is a 35 minute tour over approximately 75 percent of the Zoo, can be purchased as part of your entry fee; or you can pay additional money after entering the zoo to hop on a bus. There are several bus stops throughout the zoo; so if you want to walk until you drop you can see the zoo that way before hopping onto the bus.
For more information on ticket options: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/zoo/hours.html
To easily get from one side of the zoo to the other you can take the Skyfari Aerial Tram which will give you an overhead view of the zoo. This is an additional charge of $3.00 per person each way.
The Balboa Park Miniature Railroad is definitely for the children in your group. While there is an additional fee of $1.75 per person over age 1 this is a must for young children during your time at the San Diego Zoo.
With more than 10 additional exhibits the zoo has special things for everyone. For families with toddlers be sure to check out the Children's Zoo exhibit. Here you will find a show, a petting zoo, and other fun things for the youngsters. And watch out adults you just may learn something here as well!
The Monkey Trails and Forest Tails exhibit is the place to see more than 30 species of reptiles, mammals, birds and amphibians. Enjoy the monkeys in their own habitat and see the creepy crawlies that will entrance your young child.
Tiger River and Polar Bear Plunge are among the other San Diego Zoo exhibits that you can enjoy during your day at this wonderful place.
Next to the San Diego Zoo is the Wild Animal Park. Like the Zoo, the Wild Animal Park as many fun things to do, and several ways to get around the park.
The Wgasa Bush Line Railway is included in your admission price to the Wild Animal Park. Enjoy this guided tour of the African and Asian animal enclosures to see the animals as you never imagined before.
There are also several things to do that are not included with your admission.
Balloon Safari - take an exciting balloon ride that goes up to 400 feet and lasts 15 minutes.
Photo Caravan Safari Tours - go places you can't go on foot in the large safari enclosures and get an up close and personal look with the African and Asian animals that roam free in their large enclosure.
Cheetah Run Safari - another up close and personal look… this time with Cheetah's in their large outpost.
Conservation Carousel - enjoy a typical carousel ride on rare and endangered species hand carved for the carousel.
For more information on the above tours:
San Diego Zoo Tours Like the Zoo, the Wild Animal Park also has several wonderful exhibits; including Lion Camp the newest exhibit. Go to the Heart of Africa or Nairobi Village for added fun.
When planning to go to the Wild Animal Park, thing big: a big park, plenty of big animals and big enjoyment for the whole family at Wild Animal Park.