San Diego has long been celebrated for its impressive San Diego Zoo, and while it’s located in the aforementioned Balboa Park, it deserves its own mention. The 100-acre (40.5-hectare) expanse is home to thousands of animals representing more than 800 species. The zoo also operates the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in nearby Escondido, which offers safari-like experiences in a controlled environment. If you want to see both, consider booking a 2-day pass that allows you to visit both over two days.
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Oh yeah, Balboa Park is also home to San Diego Zoo. Did we mention that? Well anyway, add it to your list, because this zoo is a must see in San Diego. The first zoo to introduce cageless, open air exhibits, San Diego Zoo pioneered these natural animal habitats, which are really something to behold. 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.
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The world-famous zoo tops most sightseeing itineraries for a good reason. With 12,000 animals of more than 650 species, there is plenty to see, including giant panda bears, polar bears, hippos, koalas and Galapagos tortoises. Get access to the entire park and minimize walking with The Skyfari Aerial Tram, a cable car that takes visitors between Front Street (by the new Children’s Zoo) up to Northern Frontier (near Polar Bear Plunge) and back.
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