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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Tomorrow
15 Sept - 16 Sept
This weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept
Next weekend
25 Sept - 27 Sept

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Our top choices for San Diego Zoo hotels

1. Stay Classy Hostel

Stay Classy Hostel
East Village, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
Canada
Wai Kit
Rp950.994
Rp1.081.756 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Stay Classy Hostel

2. City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Leriger
Rp2.084.790
Rp2.949.314 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Sept - 1 Oct
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills

3. Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality

Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality
East Village, 2.6 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Tracy
Rp1.435.860
Rp3.015.533 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality

4. Kasa Little Italy San Diego

Kasa Little Italy San Diego
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Victor
Rp3.962.475
Rp6.060.189 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Kasa Little Italy San Diego

5. Marriott Vacation Club®, San Diego

Marriott Vacation Club®, San Diego
2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Veronica Dangerfield
Rp2.829.207
Rp3.280.324 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Marriott Vacation Club®, San Diego

6. Lafayette Hotel & Club

Lafayette Hotel & Club
2.3 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Bryanna
Rp4.807.803
Rp5.526.330 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Lafayette Hotel & Club

7. Westgate Hotel

Westgate Hotel
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Chris
Rp3.329.360
Rp4.472.666 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Westgate Hotel

8. Pendry San Diego

Pendry San Diego
Gaslamp Quarter, 3 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Melinda
Rp5.547.465
Rp7.398.059 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Pendry San Diego

9. Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa
3.1 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
amy
Rp3.084.038
Rp3.544.948 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

10. The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
Marina District, 3 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Ruben
Rp2.773.732
Rp3.706.117 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
The Horton Grand, Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

11. Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
2.8 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Bonnie
Rp3.786.365
Rp4.396.806 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

12. Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Michael
Rp3.856.809
Rp4.471.777 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

13. The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton

The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton
East Village, 2.8 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Heather
Rp2.873.763
Rp3.944.672 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
The Margot Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Outset by Hilton

14. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter, 3.1 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Monica
Rp2.679.514
Rp3.106.762 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

15. Gaslamp Hostel

Gaslamp Hostel
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Karin
Rp2.096.061
Rp2.384.353 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Gaslamp Hostel

16. Hotel Z

Hotel Z
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.9 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Sarah
Rp3.193.755
Rp4.315.157 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Hotel Z

17. The Artifact Inn

The Artifact Inn
East Village, 2.6 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Chris
Rp2.078.098
Rp4.685.054 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
The Artifact Inn

18. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
2.9 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Vasiliy
Rp5.089.579
Rp5.898.232 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

19. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
Little Italy, 2 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Victoria
Rp2.995.631
Rp3.473.284 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

20. Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.5 km from San Diego Zoo
United States
Samantha
Rp2.679.514
Rp3.265.256 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
View all properties

Compare popular hotels close to San Diego Zoo

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
A hotel room with a herringbone-patterned floor, a bed, a chair, and curtains with room numbers.
Stay Classy Hostel
9.6
949
949 reviews
View
A narrow, enclosed walkway with wooden railings and a metal grid barrier, leading to a building entrance.
City24 Hotel Little Italy Mission Hills
9.6
202
202 reviews
View
A modern bedroom with a brick wall, a bed, a desk, and a seating area.
Keating Hotel By At Mine Hospitality
9.4
171
171 reviews
View
A rooftop pool with lounge chairs and a city skyline in the background.
Kasa Little Italy San Diego
9.6
525
525 reviews
View
A high-rise hotel with multiple floors, a prominent sign at the top, and a well-lit facade.
Marriott Vacation Club®, San Diego
9.4
1204
1,204 reviews
View

Top San Diego Zoo Hotel Reviews

The Sofia Hotel

The Sofia Hotel

8/10 Good
"The hotel itself is pretty cool. The area feels like Manhattan. The downside is there is no actual hotel parking. It is a paid parking lot next to the hotel (for $48 a night or Valet for $58 a night) or street parking at the meters. The AC and cable both didn't work when we got there, HOWEVER, Ian the manager fixed it for us literally as soon as we called the front desk about it. He came right up and handled it. He is super nice and sweet and it all got fixed within 30 minutes. Overall it was a good experience. We would stay there again if it was a little less expensive and easier to park. A little pricey for us, but with the NY feel."
Erika 1-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
The Sofia Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent service"
Karla 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

10/10 Excellent
"Great location. The hotel is simple but it really has ever You expect from a hotel."
Isabel 3-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

10/10 Excellent
"Both TVs did not work, light above bar was constantly blinking, balcony door would not open, restroom door was see through and didn’t provide enough privacy"
Eric 1-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

10/10 Excellent
"The breakfast was amazing. So good. Room extra clean Rosa from housekeeping was exceptionally attentive."
Louise 2-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
Handlery Hotel

Handlery Hotel

8/10 Good
"The staff was very friendly and helpful. The air conditioning didn't work very well and we had very hot days. I went to buy a fan that worked better. The swimming pool was the highlight of this stay, very well maintaned."
Jaime 6-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Handlery Hotel
The Neon Elm Hotel

The Neon Elm Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The Neon Elm was such a pleasant find! It’s definitely not your typical, traditional hotel, and that’s honestly part of what makes it so charming. The atmosphere is cozy, quaint, and inviting, with a unique character that makes the experience feel much more personal than a standard hotel stay. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and appreciated the comfortable, relaxed feel of the property. If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual hotel experience—somewhere with charm, personality, and a cozy atmosphere—The Neon Elm is definitely worth considering. I had a wonderful stay and would happily return!"
Shawn 2-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
The Neon Elm Hotel
Lafayette Hotel & Club

Lafayette Hotel & Club

8/10 Good
"Beautiful location, only negative was not recieving a text or email to reserve the pool For the next morning woke up wanting to lay by the pool and all the spots were Reserved yet no one was in any of the spots until around 9am."
JuliaRae 1-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Lafayette Hotel & Club
Best Western Seven Seas

Best Western Seven Seas

8/10 Good
"Pretty decent hotel, my key stopped working for some reason, had to go to the front desk and no explanation was provided nor an apology for the inconvenience. Puddle of water outside the door of our room duringthe"
Roger 4-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Best Western Seven Seas

Other attractions near San Diego Zoo

A theater with a brown roof and a sign for Grinch Stole Christmas.

Old Globe Theater

You can enjoy a show at Old Globe Theater during your stay in San Diego. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed art galleries.
See properties
The San Diego Museum of Art with ornate architecture and banners advertising exhibitions.

San Diego Museum of Art

8.4/10 (7 reviews)
Art buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike will enjoy the most famous of Balboa Park’s cultural icons.
See properties
A street with palm trees, a historic building, and a clock tower.

California Tower

Learn about the local history of San Diego with a stop at California Tower. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.
See properties
A building with multiple arches and banners advertising the San Diego Museum of Man.

Museum of Us

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Museum of Us in San Diego. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
See properties
A colorful courtyard with a tiled floor, a bench, and a fountain.

Spanish Village Art Center

Enjoy an outing to Spanish Village Art Center during your stay in San Diego. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theatre scene.
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Starlight Bowl

You can make plans for a show at Starlight Bowl during your stay in San Diego. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
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Sculpture Garden

8.6/10 (35 reviews)
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Sculpture Garden during your trip to San Diego. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
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Mingei International Museum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Mingei International Museum in San Diego. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
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Find out more about San Diego Zoo

Top reasons to visit San Diego Zoo

  • Diverse Wildlife: Encounter a vast array of animals in naturalistic habitats, making it a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts.
  • Engaging Activities: Participate in birdwatching, animal nurseries, and art appreciation to enhance your visit.
  • Beautiful Surroundings: Enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant flora throughout the zoo and its surrounding areas.
  • Cultural Attractions: Explore nearby urban parks and maritime museums for a rich cultural experience.
  • Convenient Accommodations: Choose from various hotels and resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the zoo.

Find great hotels near San Diego Zoo

Explore a variety of hotel options near San Diego Zoo, catering to adventurers and business travellers alike. From luxurious resorts to comfortable apartments, you'll find pet-friendly accommodations that ensure a memorable vacation experience. Whether you're seeking proximity to the zoo or a relaxing stay in the heart of San Diego, there are numerous choices to suit your needs.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle: This 3-star hotel is a practical choice for those seeking adventure and convenience, located within 3km of the San Diego Zoo. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, it offers a range of amenities catering to both business travellers and families. The property features a selection of adventure sports and recreation activities nearby, including surfing, kayaking, and parasailing. Moreover, it is pet-friendly, making it an ideal option for those travelling with furry companions. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of recreational opportunities available.
  • Best Western Seven Seas: Another 3-star accommodation situated 3km from San Diego Zoo, the Best Western Seven Seas caters to families and adventure seekers alike. This property offers a warm and welcoming environment, complemented by adventure sports activities such as waterskiing and hiking. The hotel is particularly family-friendly, providing amenities for children, including free cribs and suitability for younger guests. Visitors often enjoy the convenience of nearby attractions, making it a cherished choice for those travelling with family.
  • The Sofia Hotel: A 3.5-star gem with a historic charm, The Sofia Hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and is located 3km from the San Diego Zoo. Nestled in a national historic building, this hotel offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for couples looking to experience a touch of history. In addition to adventure sports activities in the vicinity, The Sofia Hotel features special romance packages, including champagne service and limited hours of room service. Its blend of historic allure and modern amenities makes it an enchanting choice for a memorable stay.

Where to stay near San Diego Zoo

Exploring the areas around San Diego Zoo offers a delightful experience of friendly locals and stunning scenery. Just a short distance away, you’ll find the vibrant downtown area, rich with history and family-friendly attractions. With excellent locations nearby, such as Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, you'll have ample opportunities to soak in the urban atmosphere while enjoying similar destinations that enhance your San Diego adventure.

  • San Diego: Renowned for its perfect climate and stunning coastline, San Diego is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of experiences for tourists. With the San Diego Zoo as a prominent attraction, visitors flock to this city year-round for family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and beach outings. The city is dotted with lovely beaches, engaging theme parks, and shopping centres, making it an ideal destination for families and beach lovers alike. Explore the lush parks and waterfront areas, or indulge in local cuisine at diverse eateries scattered across the city.
  • Downtown San Diego: Located a mere 3km from the San Diego Zoo, Downtown San Diego is a bustling neighbourhood that seamlessly blends urban excitement with coastal charm. This area is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience, featuring vibrant shopping centres and educational venues. Peak visitor seasons occur in April and June to July, drawing families to its array of attractions, including beautiful beaches and event conference venues. Stroll along the waterfront or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere of this thriving urban hub.
  • Gaslamp Quarter: A historic neighbourhood just 3km from the San Diego Zoo, the Gaslamp Quarter is known for its lively nightlife, unique shops, and rich cultural heritage. This area attracts families and business travellers alike, offering a mix of outdoor activities and a vibrant business environment. With peak visitor numbers in March to April and July, the Gaslamp Quarter is home to a variety of attractions, including sports facilities and convention centres. Enjoy leisurely walks through its charming streets, dine in eclectic restaurants, or attend exciting events hosted in this vibrant district.

Things to do near San Diego Zoo

Shopping

Within the San Diego Zoo, you'll find various gift shops offering unique souvenirs, including plush toys and apparel. If you're up for a drive, head to Westfield UTC for a wider selection of shops or visit Fashion Valley Mall, known for its upscale brands and diverse options.

Recreation

At San Diego Zoo, the tranquil grounds promote wellness with serene walking paths and lush gardens. Engage in mindfulness with animal encounters or partake in yoga sessions amidst nature, allowing you to connect with the environment while enjoying the diverse wildlife around you.

Adventure

At Barona Speedway, located 40km from San Diego Zoo, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst an exhilarating atmosphere. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races, and immerse yourself in the vibrant sports culture that surrounds this exciting venue.

Nightlife

As night falls, the San Diego Zoo transforms with enchanting lighting and sounds. Enjoy a unique evening with guided night tours or dine at the Zoofari Café, where you can savour delicious meals amidst the serene ambiance, creating a memorable experience in this iconic location.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Diego Zoo

To save money on your trip to San Diego Zoo, consider visiting between November and January, when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to tailor your search by budget and preferences, including eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and zoo tickets for additional savings. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Diego Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for the San Diego Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo offers a variety of attractions for every type of visitor, including urban parks, maritime museums, and private gardens. Perfect for those seeking cultural experiences, family outings, or outdoor adventures, the area also features numerous hotels and nearby experiences. Be sure to explore the zoo's diverse animals and discover the attractions in western San Diego for a memorable trip.

  • Hotel Circle: Located merely 3km from San Diego Zoo, Hotel Circle is a vibrant thoroughfare lined with a variety of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. The area buzzes with city energy, making it an ideal base for exploring the local attractions.
  • Japanese Friendship Garden: Just 805m away, this serene private garden offers a peaceful retreat. Rich in history and culture, it features beautifully landscaped pathways, koi ponds, and traditional Japanese architecture, providing a tranquil escape from the urban environment.
  • Heritage Park: Situated 5km from the zoo, this urban park boasts a charming blend of historical buildings and green spaces. Ideal for families, it features picnic areas and playgrounds, encouraging outdoor activities amidst a city backdrop.

Best time to go to San Diego Zoo

The best time to visit San Diego Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Diego Zoo

Visiting SAN Diego Zoo is convenient when flying into San Diego International Airport (SAN), situated merely 5km away. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the 5-star Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, both offering luxurious stays within close proximity. Additionally, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a splendid 5-star hotel located 19km from the airport. For those considering alternative airports, John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 124km away, with nearby options such as The Resort at Pelican Hill and Balboa Bay Resort, both rated 4.5 stars. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), located 135km from the zoo, also has upscale options like Parker Palm Springs.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Zoo is located in an area of San Diego known for its array of dining options, bird watching and popular zoo. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 126 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.
What's the best place to stay near San Diego Zoo?
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this aparthotel offers a 24-hour fitness centre and free WiFi. It's located just a short 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from San Diego Zoo. Other good choices within a few miles include Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego and Wyndham San Diego Bayside.
How many hotels will I be able to find near San Diego Zoo?
Expedia has 126 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from San Diego Zoo.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near San Diego Zoo, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of room reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to review the top deals on offer near San Diego Zoo.
What can I see and do near San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Museum of Art, Fleet Science Center and San Diego Air and Space Museum feature captivating exhibits. Hotel del Coronado, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala and California Tower are landmarks that you won't want to miss. You can watch performances at San Diego Civic Theatre, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park and Humphreys Concerts by the Bay if you're interested in local theatre.

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