For locals, the annual pass ($86 for first timers, $70 something for renewers, sometimes with a couple months thrown in as a bonus) is the best deal in San Diego County. Unlimited Zoo and Wild Animal Park visits, free zoo skyfari rides, monthly color magazine, two free guest passes, multiple coupon offers. I mention this only because tourists have been so struck by the deal that they’ve bought the pass, too.
This is my favorite place in all of San Diego. My recomendation for first (or second, or tenth) timers: Start the day early, and make for the polar bears. Get to them either via the SkyFari if the lines are short, or on foot.. (They’re located on the opposite end of the zoo from the entrance). Their exhibit is stunning, and because they’re most active in the morning, the opportunity to see the polar bears play in the water from a vantage point of being 10 feet below the water’s surface could very well be the highlight of your trip. They’re no guarantees though (this is a zoo, not a circus), but it’s fantastic to see.
Other must see exhibits: the monkeys/apes (the exhibit itself is a marvel), the hippos (another underwater vantage point), the giraffes (public feedings at noon), the pandas (as of now, you can watch the newest baby, Su Lin while you’re in line waiting to see her parents and brother – she’s the black and white fuzzball high in the tree), the koalas, the raptors (predatory birds) when active, and the row containing the brown bears, sun bears and lions.
Admission: $21 Adults, $14 Children 3-11, deluxe packages also available.
Tips: Regarding where to eat – I really have no preference food wise. We usually end up at Canyon Cafe (next to the pandas) because of its midway point. Although the price point for food at the zoo is a little high, we figure it’s all going to support research and conservation. Hopefully.
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