Overview
The San Francisco Zoo is a 100-acre zoo located in the southwestern part of San Francisco. It is home to more than 2,000 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals representing over 200 species. The zoo is also known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
The San Francisco Zoo is a leading conservation and education center, dedicated to the protection and preservation of wildlife and their habitats.
Location
Address
Sloat Blvd. & Great Highway, San Francisco, California
Neighborhood: Oceanview
Coordinates
37.730800, -122.491000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, occasional rain
- • Blooming gardens
- • Baby animals
summer
Warm to hot, occasional fog
- • Extended summer hours
- • Special exhibits
autumn
Cooling down, occasional rain
- • Fall foliage
- • Harvest festivals
winter
Cold, rainy
- • Holiday lights
- • Winter animals
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Purchase tickets online in advance
- Check the weather forecast
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate, as the zoo is large and involves a lot of walking
- • Stay hydrated
- • Use sunscreen
- • Be aware of animals, do not feed or touch them
Medical facilities: First aid stations available throughout the zoo
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile payments
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, Closed-toe shoes recommended for safety, Inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least a few days in advance, especially for weekends and holidays
- • Official San Francisco Zoo website
- • Tickets can be refunded or exchanged up to 48 hours in advance
- • Purchase tickets online in advance
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
San Francisco Zoo
Size: 50 MB
Features: Interactive map, Daily schedule, Ticket purchase, Gift shop
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Cafes and restaurants, Gift shop
Charging Stations: Not specified
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10-15 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The San Francisco Zoo is a beloved local institution with a rich history and a commitment to conservation and education. It's a great place to spend a day with family and friends, and it's always changing with new exhibits and events.
Historical Significance: The zoo was founded in 1879 and has been a part of San Francisco's history for over a century. It has survived earthquakes, fires, and other challenges, and continues to be an important cultural and educational institution.
Insider Tips
- The best time to see the penguins is during feeding time, which is usually in the morning
- The zoo has a hidden garden called the Lorell Lodge, which is a great spot for a picnic
- The zoo's holiday lights display is a must-see in December
Local Recommendations
- • Try the clam chowder at the Sea Lion Center
- • Visit the historic buildings like the 1934 Bear Grotto
- • Check out the nearby Ocean Beach for a scenic walk
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Elk Grove
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the elk in their natural habitat
Result: Beautiful shots of the elk with the ocean in the background
Grizzly Bear Exhibit
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Use the natural light to highlight the bears
Result: Stunning photos of the grizzly bears
Japanese Tea Garden
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Focus on the details of the garden and the animals
Result: Serene and beautiful shots of the garden and its inhabitants
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Sutro Heights Park
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Park
Ocean Beach
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 minutes
Type: Beach
Land's End
Distance: 2.5km
Walking: 30 minutes
Type: Scenic Lookout
San Francisco Botanical Garden
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 minutes
Type: Garden
Golden Gate Park
Distance: 3.5km
Walking: 45 minutes
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 10,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early to avoid crowds"
- "Purchase tickets online in advance"
- "Don't miss the penguin feeding"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
- "Check out the historic buildings"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
4
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
10,000
Adult Entry
$25 (ages 15-64)