Summary
There are almost as many ways to get San Diego Zoo tickets as there are flamingos in the zoo. The easiest and most expensive method is to walk up and buy them at the entrance. However, there are plenty of other options outlined here.
Here’s something to think about: The San Diego Zoological Society is not government funded, and your admission fees help them rescue vanishing species.
San Diego Zoo Ticket Options
Anyone aged 3 and older must have a ticket. Child ticket prices are available for kids 3 to 11.
You can purchase tickets at the gate. Furthermore, getting them ahead of time on your smartphone or tablet provides you with a barcode that will be scanned at the gate. Buying online not only saves you time but may also save you a few extra dollars.
- One-Day Tickets: One-day passes include a guided bus tour, the Kangaroo Express hop on/hop off bus, unlimited rides on the Skyfari aerial tram, and all regularly scheduled shows. Opt for a 1-Day Plus Pass to also get into one 4-D show.
- Two-Visit Pass: This combined ticket for the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park saves approximately 10% compared to purchasing them individually.
Check current ticket prices on the San Diego Zoo website.
Things You’ll Pay Extra For
The San Diego Zoo offers a variety of additional animal experiences. Special before-hours and after-hours tours, as well as behind-the-scenes and other VIP experiences, come with an extra cost, which can sometimes be significant.
The one thing you will not pay extra for at the San Diego Zoo is parking; it is complimentary.
Easy Ways to Get San Diego Zoo Tickets
The following options provide discounts of 10% or more on San Diego Zoo tickets. If you missed taking advantage of any of these before your visit, check with your hotel to see if they offer discounted tickets.
- AAA Member Discounts: Receive 10% off San Diego Zoo tickets and other purchases.
- Senior Citizens: If you are over 60 years old, you can receive a 10% discount on your San Diego Zoo tickets at the gate, although this discount is not available online.
- Military Personnel: Bring your military ID to obtain a free Best Value ticket.
- Ask about discount passes available at your workplace or through any organizations you belong to.
Combination Tickets That Include the San Diego Zoo
If you plan to visit multiple area attractions during your vacation, one of these combination passes may save you money. However, ensure to evaluate each pass carefully to confirm genuine savings based on the activities you intend to enjoy.
- San Diego 3-for-1 Pass: This pass includes unlimited admission to the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and Sea World for up to five days.
- Go San Diego Card: This card provides access to a variety of attractions at a reasonable price.
- Balboa Park Passport: An excellent option if you plan to visit additional museums within the park.
Coupons, Discounts, and Promotions
Promotions and coupons can change frequently, but you may find discount coupon codes at RetailMeNot.
Ways to Get in Free
- The zoo periodically offers free admission for children ages 3 to 11. To find out when, check the San Diego Zoo Kids page.
