There's a reason why Trip Advisor puts the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park in the US Top 10 list. The Park shows the animals in a natural environment, with lots of options to see over 3,500 animals from Africa and Asia, along with the California Condors, and several shows. The new "Journey Into Africa" Tour that comes with the Best Value Package (along with the Conservation Carousel) does cover only part of the open space FOR NOW. The Park is building 8 new exhibits in that area, (They're accepting donations) and the Asian area IS accessible up close with the Photo Caravans, Savannah Safari, and VIP Tours right now. The overnight Roar & Snore camping is something everyone should try. Wake up to roaring lions-- too cool!
I haven't tried one yet, but they even offer Segway tours.
Lots of kid fun with the Discovery Stations, playgrounds, and SplashZones,and the petting kraal, but it's still best for those over the age of 4, IMHO.
Membership is the still the best deal out there by far- $89 adults/ $24-28 children and they are currently offering $10 off on the main website , or get a 2 park ticket and do both the Zoo and Wild Animal Park for $60 adults/ $43 children ages 3 -11.
The San Diego Zoo & Wild Animal Park focus on conservation and education, ALONG with entertaining us, and they do so many projects OUTSIDE of San Diego to save animals. They do deserve credit for saving the species of so many animals, and they are non-profit (unlike Sea World and Legoland). So, the money spent on food and goodies goes to keeping the projects going all around the world, not just at the Zoo and Wild Animal Park. They are also great recyclers - they use reconstituted silverware, and have lots of recycling bins at the parks, collect used cell phones, and have won awards from the California State Assembly and The State of California's Waste Reduction.
Reservations & Customer Service- 619-718-3000 or 800-407-9534, Monday?Friday, 8:30 a.m.?5 p.m. direct (shhh),
Pros: Great way to see animals, photo caravan, Roar & Snore sleepover, shopping,animal encounters, Lion Camp, California Condors,friendly staff,
Cons: have to wear sunscreen
more