San Diego Zoo
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window)X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)LinkedIn
- Click to share on Mail (Opens in new window)Mail
- By Caroline Lenher
Summer is all about fun, and nothing says adventure like unforgettable wildlife experiences. The San Diego Zoo has them all, including the iconic giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao! After arriving from China in June 2024, these charming bears made their public debut at the end of last summer, delighting visitors with their graceful bamboo nibbling, leisurely tree lounging, and gentle ways. This summer, they are now entirely at home in their lush, reimagined environment, Denny Sanford Panda Ridge. As one of only two U.S. zoos with pandas, the San Diego Zoo promises an incredible treat for visitors of all ages.
While there, a must-see are the zoo’s precious baby giraffes! These gentle giants are not to be missed.
Just across the bay at the Safari Park, elephant lovers will be thrilled by Elephant Valley. This impressive exhibit is home to a growing herd, featuring majestic adults and mischievous youngsters roaming spacious terrain. Built as a 2.5-acre haven, it blends modern habitat design with educational storytelling, exploring ancient megafauna through life-size fossil portals.
And while the real “jingle bells” await winter, the Zoo’s Jungle Bells celebration remains a local favorite. Though it unfolds in December, nostalgia for twinkling lights, festive music, including holiday sing-alongs powered by “Jingle Bells,” and charming roaming entertainers is already in the air. The Zoo transforms nightly with light treks, carols, and themed décor, creating a family-friendly glow. So, something to plan for the end of the year!
To plan your visit, click here.