Paid parking began at the San Diego Zoo on January 5, 2026, aligning with a city-wide policy change, according to zoo officials.
The implementation of parking fees comes as the zoo operates under its regular hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily through March 13, 2026. Visitors are directed to access the parking lot from Park Boulevard at Zoo Place, with specific directions provided for those traveling from the north, south, and east.
Public transportation options offer an alternative to driving. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) provides direct service to the zoo via Rapid 215 and Route 7 buses, with service running every 15 minutes or better. These routes connect to downtown San Diego, Amtrak and COASTER trains at the Santa Fe Depot, downtown hotels, the Cruise Ship Terminal, and various trolley and bus lines.
Moovit, a transit app, indicates that bus lines 7 and 215 both serve the San Diego Zoo, with the nearest bus stop located at Park Bl & Zoo Pl, a five-minute walk from the zoo entrance. Cable car lines, specifically the Blue and Orange lines, likewise offer connections, though require a 33-minute walk from the City College Station.
Metrolink, Southern California’s commuter rail service, is currently undertaking a capital improvement program called SCORE, intended to upgrade the system in preparation for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While not directly serving the San Diego Zoo, Metrolink offers connections to other transit options in the region.
The San Diego Zoo provides a detailed map of the park on its website for visitors to plan their route and locate wildlife exhibits. A virtual assistant and FAQ section are also available to assist with planning a visit.
Metrolink announced on January 28, 2026, that it would offer free rides on February 4th in honor of Rosa Parks’ birthday as part of Transit Equity Day. A $10 SoCal Day Pass was also offered to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Day, announced December 18, 2025. The Metrolink Holiday Express completed a five-station tour in December 2025, beginning at Los Angeles Union Station.
