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A world-renowned, 100-acre zoo with more than 12,000 animals including some rare and endangered species, the San Diego Zoo was the first to introduce cageless, open-air exhibits. It’s one of the only places outside China where you can spot giant pandas, and the zoo offers everything from strolls at sunrise to overnight camping. And if you can’t get enough, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located about 30 minutes north of the San Diego Zoo in Escondido and has an exciting new elephant enclosure.
It’s all about the giant pandas right now (they returned to China and are now back in San Diego after nearly five years), but the elephants, koalas, polar bears, lions, tigers giraffes, hippos, and grizzly bears are also a big draw. Nighttime Zoo during the summer offers extended operating hours, and Jungle Bells in December brings festive decor and holiday lights to the zoo. Little ones will be thrilled to play at Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, an interactive play area for kids of all ages.