Book San Francisco Zoo Tickets | Discover 2000+ Animals

Why visit San Francisco Zoo?

1/5

Catch animal feedings

Time your visit around specific animal feedings for a chance to see animals up close and learn about their diets and natural behaviors. Catch daily feedings of penguins, grizzly bears, and even giraffes!

It’s not just a zoo

The zoo is not just about animals, it doubles as a botanical garden, showcasing California native plants, succulents, and endangered flora, with seasonal blooms.

Largest outdoor lemur habitat in America

The San Francisco Zoo boasts the largest outdoor habitat for lemurs in the US, with multiple species, including ring-tailed and blue-eyed black lemurs existing in a naturalistic setting that mimics their native Madagascar.

See wolves up close

At Wolf Canyon, you can enjoy a 270-degree view of the Mexican gray wolves' habitat. This is a rare opportunity to observe these nearly extinct animals and learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Large collection of rescued and rehabilitated animals

At the San Francisco Zoo, you will find bald eagles, grizzly bears, and big cats that have often been rescued since they can no longer survive in the wild.

A walk on the wild side: Your animal encounters in pictures

Breakfast with a Grizzly Bear

Start your day at Grizzly Gulch, where you can watch Kachina and Kiona, the zoo’s resident grizzlies, enjoying their morning meal at 10:30 am.

Plan your visit

Open hours: Daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm
Last admission: 3:30pm
Best time to visit: Head over to San Francisco Zoo on a weekday, early in the morning when the zoo opens, to see animals at their most active state. You can enjoy a quieter experience before larger crowds arrive. Visiting during the peak season (May to September) when temperatures average between 18°C to 24°C, makes it ideal for outdoor activities but also busier due to summer vacations. If you find yourself at the zoo in the low season (November to March) during the winter, keep in mind that temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C. The upside? Fewer visitors and a more relaxed setting to enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.

Address: Sloat Blvd &, Upper Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132, US | Find on Maps

Nearby landmark: Ocean Beach (0.3 mile)

By tram: Take the Muni Metro L Taraval line and disembark at the Wawona and 46th Avenue station which is a short walk to the entrance.
Nearest stop: Wawona St and 46th Ave (6-minute walk)
By bus: Muni bus lines 23 or 18, which both stop directly at the zoo
Nearest stop: Sloat Blvd & 47th Ave (4-minute walk)
By car: Both Sloat Boulevard and the Great Highway lead to the zoo. Once on these roads, follow the signs that direct you to the zoo entrance.
Parking: While paid parking is available on the museum premises, you can also opt to park for free on the street along Sloat Boulevard.

All parking areas and walkways in the zoo are wheelchair accessible.
Wheelchairs can be rented at the main gate for visitors who need them.
Strollers are permitted in the zoo, and rentals are available at the main gate.
Service animals are allowed in the zoo to assist guests with disabilities.
Electronic Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) can be arranged for rent at the zoo.

Toilets: Restroom facilities are conveniently located throughout the zoo.
Paid parking: The zoo offers paid parking with fees of $11 on weekdays and $13 on weekends and holidays.
Free parking: Limited free parking is available along Sloat Boulevard near the zoo entrance.
First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies or needs.
Souvenir shop: A souvenir shop is located at the zoo, offering themed gifts and memorabilia.
Dining outlets: Multiple dining outlets are available on the premises including the Leaping Lemur Café and The Station Pizza Parlor.

Microphones, tripods, selfie sticks, and flash photography are not allowed inside the zoo.
Photography and videography are allowed only for personal use and not commercial purposes.
Smoking cigarettes is prohibited anywhere on zoo grounds, including e-cigarettes.
Do not bring outside food and drinks into the zoo. Instead, make use of the dining options available on-site.
Please remember to respect the animals and their habitats during your visit. Refrain from teasing or shouting at them, throwing objects into the exhibits or feeding them.
Pets are not allowed inside the premises.
Children 14 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
The zoo prohibits items such as straws, disposable lids, glass containers, balloons, radios, stereos, musical instruments, and any sound amplifiers.
Additionally, bicycles, tricycles, scooters, skateboards, sports equipment and rollerblades are not allowed.

Stop by these restaurants within the zoo for a quick meal between your animal encounters:

Leaping Lemur Café: Located across from the flamingo habitat, Leaping Lemur Café offers a variety of delicious entrees, including a must-try Angus burger and crispy French fries. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, it sets a pleasant atmosphere for you to relax and enjoy meals during your zoo experience.
The Station Pizza Parlor: Near the Little Puffer steam train depot, is The Station Pizza Parlor which specializes in tasty flatbreads and savory pretzels which are perfect for a quick meal. If you enjoy outdoor seating, this is a great pick with views overlooking Bear Country. A must-try here is their signature pizza, which combines fresh ingredients for a delicious zoo treat.
Café Playfield: Café Playfield is known for its house-made soups served in sourdough bread bowls, making it a cozy choice on foggy San Francisco days. The café uses locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh flavors in every bite.

Wildlife Connection Shop

The gift shop at the San Francisco Zoo offers a wide variety of unique souvenirs, including plush animals, educational toys, and apparel featuring wildlife themes. Located conveniently near the zoo entrance, you can take home a piece of your zoo experience at this shop, while supporting conservation efforts.

Open hours: Daily from 10am to 5pm

Beyond San Francisco Zoo

Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay, located at Pier 39, showcases local aquatic life in the Bay area. At this aquarium, you can explore interactive exhibits, including underwater tunnels and touch pools, while learning about the importance of ocean conservation and the unique ecosystems of San Francisco Bay.

Book Now

Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is an interactive museum where you can engage with hundreds of hands-on exhibits that blend art, science, and human perception. It encourages exploration through playful activities, such as dancing with shadows and levitating objects, making learning a fun and immersive experience.

Book Now

Alcatraz Island

Here’s your chance to explore the infamous Alcatraz Island that housed some of America's most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Back in its time, this island was a maximum-security federal prison. It serves as a major tourist attraction today.

Book Now

Frequently asked questions about San Francisco Zoo tickets

What is included in my ticket?

Your ticket to the San Francisco Zoo includes admission to the zoo and all the attractions within it.

Are there discounted tickets?

Residents of San Francisco, seniors over 65 years and children between 2 to 11 years old can avail tickets at a discounted price. Guests with disabilities, retired and active military personnel can avail tickets at San Francisco resident rates.

Do kids need separate tickets?

Children above 2 years old will require their own tickets. Those under 2 years old can enter for free.

How long does it take to explore the San Francisco Zoo?

Most visitors spend 3-4 hours at the zoo to enjoy all the curated experiences. Plan extra time if you want to visit interactive areas or dine at the zoo.

Are there seasonal events or special exhibits at the San Francisco Zoo?

Throughout the year, the zoo hosts special events like Zoo Lights during the holidays and Boo at the Zoo for Halloween. Check the zoo’s calendar for current and upcoming events.

What are the main attractions or must-see exhibits?

Do not miss out on the African Savanna, Gorilla Preserve, Dentzel Carousel, Little Puffer Train and Penguin Island.

What happens if it rains on the day of my visit?

The San Francisco Zoo remains open during rain unless weather conditions pose safety concerns. If you decide not to visit because of the rain, you can use your pre-paid tickets within 30 days of your original visit date. Simply bring your original reservation to the ticket along.

Is re-entry allowed?

You can re-enter the zoo with your admission ticket but remember to get a same day re-entry handstamp at the Gatehouse before you step out.