San Diego Favorite Zoos

1000+ Family Friendly Attractions for San Diego:
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San Diego Region[]

San Diego Zoos, Aquariums and Animal Parks
Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes
01: San Diego Zoo	Balboa Park	Facebook Instagram Wildlife Alliance	This is a world-renowned zoo that houses over 3,700 animals representing various species in a beautifully landscaped setting, offering an immersive and educational wildlife experience.
02: San Diego Zoo Safari Park	San Pasqual Valley	Facebook Instagram	This extension of the San Diego Zoo, provides an expansive, open-air environment for over 2,600 animals. Visitors can experience thrilling safari adventures and witness diverse wildlife in naturalistic habitats.
03: Wild Wonders	Bonsall	Facebook Instagram	There are over 120 animal ambassadors at this intimate wildlife education center and conservation facility. It offers up-close encounters with a variety of exotic animals, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the planet's diverse species.
04: Birch Aquarium	La Jolla	Facebook Instagram Scripps Institution of Oceanography	This captivating oceanographic museum features interactive exhibits and stunning displays, it educates visitors about marine life, conservation, and the importance of preserving ocean ecosystems, providing an immersive and informative experience for all ages.
05: Sea Life Aquarium	Carlsbad	Facebook	SEA LIFE is a unique interactive aquarium experience for kids, located adjacent to LEGOLAND California.
07: Lions, Tigers and Bears	Alpine	Facebook Instagram	This is a non-profit rescue facility providing a permanent home for exotic animals rescued from captivity. Dedicated to wildlife education and conservation, it offers guided tours, allowing visitors to observe and learn about big cats, bears, and other rescued animals in a caring environment.
08: San Diego Animal Sanctuary and Farm	Alpine	Facebook Instagram	Kids can meet rescued animals, learn about their care, and experience hands-on farm activities.
09: Sea World San Diego	Mission Bay	Facebook Instagram	Aquatic shows, aquariums and the largest roller coasters in the county. Download their app for info on gate times, show times, discounts, and VIP Events
10: California Wolf Center	Julian	Facebook
11: Helen Woodward Animal Center	Rancho Santa Fe	Facebook	People helping animals and animals helping people.
12: Oasis Camel Dairy	Ramona	Facebook	#LifeIsBetterWithCamels

Petting Zoos & Animal Rides[]

Petting Zoos & Animal Rides
Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes
01:Bates Nut Farm	Valley Center CA	Facebook
02: Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures	Santa Ysabel	Facebook Instagram	Fort Cross is a family farm, with hands-on outdoor education and lots of farm animals to meet!
03:Carrillo Ranch	Carlsbad CA		Historic Ranch where today many peacocks roam the grounds. Admission free.
04:San Diego County Fair	Del Mar Fairgrounds		Every June, the Fair returns with lots of farm animal rides, shows, races and competitions.

Equestrian Centers[]

San Diego Equestrian Centers
Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes
01:Pony Land San Diego	San Ysidro	Facebook	Horseback trail rides to the beach.
02:Stokes Equestrian Center	Temecula		Horse riding academy
03: 100 Acre Wood Horse Farm	Jamul	Facebook	Beginner to intermediate, child and adult horse back riding lessons.

Orange County Region[]

Orange County Zoos, Aquariums and Animal Parks
	Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes

Inland Empire Region[]

Inland Empire Zoos, Aquariums and Animal Parks
	Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes
	01:[https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/ Aquarium of the Pacific	Long Beach	Facebook	World class aquarium
	02:California Wildlife Foundation	Berkeley

Other Notable California Zoos[]

Other Socal Zoos, Aquariums and Animal Parks
	Venue	Community	Social Media Events	Notes
	01:[https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/ Aquarium of the Pacific	Long Beach	Facebook	World class aquarium
	02:California Wildlife Foundation	Berkeley