San Francisco Zoo Tours
2 Reviews

Enjoy a day at the San Francisco Zoo, home to hundreds of animals from around the world. Highlights include the African Savanna exhibit, dual-level Primate Discovery Center, and boundary-free South American Tropical Rainforest. Kids can pet animals in the Children’s Zoo, and kids of all ages like the daily Keeper Talks and animal feedings.
The Basics
The San Francisco Zoo features animals in a range of settings, from natural habitats to thematic exhibits. Larger animals reside in Cat Kingdom and Grizzly Gulch, while the Insect Zoo showcases crawling creatures like tarantulas and termites. And the zoo has more than animals and gardens—check out the mini steam train and antique carousel. The ecosystem-themed bio-regions of the Elinor Friend Playground are also ideal for kids, and the Conservation Corner showcases lessons about conservation at home.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The San Francisco Zoo is located at Sloat Boulevard and 45th Avenue. Beat traffic and take MUNI’s L Taraval line outbound, or bus 23 or 18. If driving from the East or South Bay, take 280 North to John Daly Boulevard. From the North Bay, take 19th Avenue to Presidio Parkway. The zoo entrance is located on the Great Highway. There is a paid lot at the zoo and free street parking.
When to Get There
The zoo is open from 10am to 4pm every day of the year. Weekends are busiest, so consider visiting mid-week to avoid crowds. For the sunniest weather, plan to visit in September or October; because of its seaside location, the zoo may be chilly in the winter months.
The Sculpture Learning Plaza
Kids are right at home in the zoo’s Sculpture Learning Plaza, filled with nearly 100 animal sculptures carefully composed with materials that convey a lifelike texture. There’s a true-to-size alligator, enlarged amoeba, and breaching gray whale. This accessible space is designed for touch exploration, and includes species-specific walk-around cards so you can learn about ecology as you explore.
The Basics
The San Francisco Zoo features animals in a range of settings, from natural habitats to thematic exhibits. Larger animals reside in Cat Kingdom and Grizzly Gulch, while the Insect Zoo showcases crawling creatures like tarantulas and termites. And the zoo has more than animals and gardens—check out the mini steam train and antique carousel. The ecosystem-themed bio-regions of the Elinor Friend Playground are also ideal for kids, and the Conservation Corner showcases lessons about conservation at home.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The San Francisco Zoo is ideal for animal lovers and families with children.
- Seniors and children ages 4 to 14 receive discounted admission, as do those who take MUNI to the zoo. Kids age 3 and under are free.
- To maximize your zoo time, consider purchasing advance tickets online to avoid the lines.
- Adventurous visitors can bring a bike and try the zoo’s seasonal, guided bike tours.
- There are three zoo restaurants, including the Station Pizza Parlor, which overlooks the bear exhibits.
- Bring a warm layer, as there’s often fog or a chilly breeze off the Pacific Ocean.
- You'll be eligible for a discount if you take Muni to the zoo.
How to Get There
The San Francisco Zoo is located at Sloat Boulevard and 45th Avenue. Beat traffic and take MUNI’s L Taraval line outbound, or bus 23 or 18. If driving from the East or South Bay, take 280 North to John Daly Boulevard. From the North Bay, take 19th Avenue to Presidio Parkway. The zoo entrance is located on the Great Highway. There is a paid lot at the zoo and free street parking.
When to Get There
The zoo is open from 10am to 4pm every day of the year. Weekends are busiest, so consider visiting mid-week to avoid crowds. For the sunniest weather, plan to visit in September or October; because of its seaside location, the zoo may be chilly in the winter months.
The Sculpture Learning Plaza
Kids are right at home in the zoo’s Sculpture Learning Plaza, filled with nearly 100 animal sculptures carefully composed with materials that convey a lifelike texture. There’s a true-to-size alligator, enlarged amoeba, and breaching gray whale. This accessible space is designed for touch exploration, and includes species-specific walk-around cards so you can learn about ecology as you explore.
Address: Sloat Blvd & Great Highway, San Francisco, California, USA 94132, USA
Admission: Varies
Admission Tickets (1)

San Francisco Zoo General Admission
Explore all the San Francisco Zoo has to offer at your own pace with this full-day admission ticket. Go to the Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna exhibit, and spot animals native to Africa such as giraffes, zebras, and kudus. Stop by Penguin Island to watch the adorable Magellanic penguins. Check out and learn about more than 250 species that call the zoo home.
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From
$25.00
From
$25.00
6 Tours and Activities to Experience San Francisco Zoo
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San Francisco Zoo General Admission
Explore all the San Francisco Zoo has to offer at your own pace with this full-day admission ticket. Go to the Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna exhibit, and spot animals native to Africa such as giraffes, zebras, and kudus. Stop by Penguin Island to watch the adorable Magellanic penguins. Check out and learn about more than 250 species that call the zoo home.
…More
From
$25.00
From
$25.00

San Francisco CityPASS
Save time and money with the San Francisco CityPASS, which gives you admission to top area attractions, a cruise on San Francisco Bay, and discounts for shopping and activities. You can choose to visit science and art museums like the Exploratorium or the Walt Disney Family Museum. You’ll have important details like hours of operation right in your pocket with the provided mobile ticket.
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From
$76.00
From
$76.00

Go San Francisco Explorer Pass
With the San Francisco Explorer Pass you’ll save money on four San Francisco attractions within a 60-day period. Select four activities among a list of 20 sightseeing cruises, tours, museum admissions, and transportation in and around the city. Take advantage of discount offers at retailers and restaurants, and use your complimentary guidebook to help you independently explore the Bay Area at your own pace. No voucher redemption is required; simply save on your mobile phone and enjoy direct entry to attractions.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 60 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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From
$61.00
From
$61.00

Go San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 25+ Attractions and Tours
Tour San Francisco with the Go San Francisco Pass on your mobile device. See all the sites or just a few; it's your choice using this customizable touring option. Enjoy free admission at more than 30 popular San Francisco attractions as well as discounts on dining and shopping. Choose from 1-,2-, 3- or 5-day options to help you save as much money as possible on your vacation.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 30 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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From
$78.00
From
$78.00

Muir Woods Tour with San Francisco Zoo Admission
Explore the soaring redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument on a guided tour from San Francisco that includes a drive through Sausalito and tickets to the San Francisco Zoo. Choose between morning and afternoon departures from Fisherman’s Wharf or selected hotels, then travel across the Golden Gate Bridge to the dramatic coastal forest. Following the tour, you’re free to visit the San Francisco Zoo on your own schedule, touring exhibits spread across 100 acres (40 ha.) in the heart of the city.
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From
$113.00
From
$113.00

Nature Wildlife Package to California's Redwoods with Aquarium and Zoo Visit
This wildlife package packs in three great attractions into your vacation, including Muir Woods National Monument, the San Francisco Zoo, and the Aquarium of the Bay. First, enjoy a ride over to Muir Woods, where you’ll gain admission into the national monument, and stand next to towering California old-growth redwood trees. Then, plan some time to explore the San Francisco Zoo and the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39 on your own with your included admission tickets.
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From
$142.00
From
$142.00

San Francisco MEGA PASS - Chose 3, 4 or 5 Tours & Activities
CURRENTLY NOT OFFERED UNTIL MARCH 2021!!!
Choose 3, 4 or 5 tours, attractions or museums from the list provided of the most popular things to do in San Francisco
Up to 50% savings compared to separate purchases
See San Francisco at your own leisure
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From
$79.99
From
$79.99
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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