San Francisco Guide to Sightseeing
Name: San Francisco Zoo
Address: 1 Zoo Road (map it)
For adults, there is a certain nostalgia about zoos, a portal back to the childhood days. For children, zoos can be a gateway into another world. The San Francisco Zoo has been an institution for over three-quarters of a century, devoted to enriching both children and adult’s knowledge of the natural world. To this day it still serves as one of San Francisco’s prime attractions, and regardless of your age it is a guaranteed great time out.

The San Francisco Zoo recently celebrated its 75th anniversary since the date it was opened in 1929, and since day one is has proven to be a main attraction for children and adults alike. With more than 930 animals and 250 species, it is the largest zoo in northern California, and it’s really the only one worth your time to go. Whether it’s lions, giraffes, elephants, or otters, the zoo has it all—even peacocks roaming the premises.

The zoo has been adamant in featuring exhibits and activities that are for all ages. Kids from 18 months to 12 years old can participate in various programs that will broaden their knowledge of the animal kingdom, and adults can go on BikeAbouts, bike tours of the zoo, take wildlife illustration classes, or even bring the whole family to an overnight stay at the zoo, complete with a night safari.

The entrance fee is a small drop in the bucket compared to the experience you will have at the zoo: $11 for adults, $8 for youths ages 12-17 and seniors, and children 3-11 are $5. Residents of San Francisco receive discounted rates: $9 for adults, $4.50 for kids and seniors.