The zoo provides discounted entry to all active military personnel. It does not provide any provisions for veterans. The discount can be availed throughout the year. Military spouses and dependents get a 10% off, and they do not need to be accompanied by an active member on duty. If veterans and retirees want to avail the discount, they will have to contact their nearest MWR branch.
What are the steps to avail of the discount?
Procure a Common Access Card or Uniformed Services card from the place of work. At the entrance to the zoo, get these registered and verify documents citing age and identity. For dependents, a valid ID card citing the relationship will work.
What makes San Diego Zoo one of the best in the country?
The zoo’s location is unique as it stands in the sprawling and lonely Balboa Park. The Park itself is far from city limits, so it provides a conducive atmosphere to visitors. The zoo is over 100 acres in size and this provides ample space to house all the animals. They offer a guided tour bus service that makes it easy to traverse and learn more about the wildlife in the zoo. The zoo is the only wildlife enclosure in the world to house the rare Tasmanian Devils. It is one of the only zoos in the world to have successfully bred pandas in captivity.
What are some of the major visitor hotspots in the zoo?
The zoo is divided into multiple exhibits depending on the animals. Some of the popular ones are:
The Owens Aviary is home to multiple species of tropical birds. The Panda canyon houses couple of giant pandas. The Urban Jungle is an ecosystem in its own right and contains animals like giraffes, leopards, and cheetahs. The Lost Forest exhibit is a great place to catch glimpses of hippos. The Sun Bear Forest Exhibit is a must-see for all bear lovers. Species originating from Australia can be found in the Outback Exhibit.
How much do the tickets cost to gain entry to the zoo?
A normal ticket would cost an adult $65 and children between the ages of 3-and 11 need to pay $55. Value offers give a discount of $2 if one visits the zoo on particular days of the year. If one wants to experience additional features like the immersive 4D experience, then tickets will cost $71 for adults and $61 for kids.
What other initiatives has the zoo been a part of over the years?
The zoo launches an annual program known as the “Zoo Corps”. This is a volunteering program aimed at high school students to let them act as a guide to visitors. The zoo also runs a handful of conservation programs for endangered species.
Conclusion
The zoo has been responsible for providing an escape into the wild for over a century. Its multitude of attractions is a great place to take family and kids for an outing. However, it is equally loved by nature enthusiasts as it provides a look at some of the rarest species in the world. For years, the zoo has been responsible for bringing a slice of the jungle into everyday lives.
- Do you need to make reservations in advance to visit the zoo?
As of 2021, the zoo has stopped following a reservation policy. Bookings can be done at the counter itself, and visitors will be allowed in the park afterward.
- Is the zoo open on all days throughout the year?
The zoo remains open every day of the week throughout the year. However, some exhibits might be closed due to repair and maintenance work going on. A list of closed amenities will be put near the main entrance of the park daily. Guests can check it according to their convenience.
- Can one store luggage at the zoo?
Visitors can store their luggage for free at the zoo. Smaller items cost $5 to store and larger items are $15. They can also store the first five items for a fee of $15 and each additional add-on item for $5. To avail of the service visit the nearest Guest Services Building.
