What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: Ages 3-12 thrive with Elinor Friend Playground, goat petting, Little Puffer train, Zoo Keys, daily feedings, many restrooms, and stroller-friendly trails, making it an almost perfect day out.
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for main exhibits, train and carousel rides, playground breaks, and a relaxed family pace.
Elinor Friend Playground:
Three age-specific play zones let kids climb, splash, and explore safely.
Tip: Visit first thing to beat crowds and pack a change of clothes for the water play.
Little Puffer Steam Train:
A gentle circuit through South America and Bear Country habitats.
Tip: Ride at the 11 am opening to avoid lines; kids under 3 ride free with a paid adult.
Historic Dentzel Carousel:
A restored 1921 carousel with hand-carved animals.
Tip: Buy tickets early; adults ride free when accompanying a paying child.
Family Farm Goat Enrichment:
Pet and feed goats while keepers explain farm-animal care.
Tip: Join the daily 11 am session and bring a few quarters for feed.
Animal Connections Shows:
Interactive keeper talks and feedings featuring reptiles, birds, and more.
Tip: Check the daily schedule and slot in a show around midday to rest little legs.

Fibromyalgic Guahan
We love animals and this was wonderful! The animals were relaxing. We got to see bears, lions, wolves, penguins, rhinos, etc. The food was good for the price. The experience was better in person. Lots of walking too. We enjoyed ourselves.
Isaac Langford
During our visit, I incurred the following expenses: two chicken strip dinners for $57 and an admission fee of $28. While exploring the park, we observed that most of the animals were not active. Fortunately, there was one individual actively engaging the crowd with the koalas exhibit. However, I believe that more people are needed to provide commentary on the animals as they are typically asleep ...
J M
Discover the wonders of the San Francisco Zoo.Located at Sloat Blvd & Upper Great Hwy, this spacious, family-friendly destination is home to over 2,000 amazing animals, each thriving in their unique habitats. Highlights include the African Savanna, Penguin Island, and the enchanting Lemur Forest! With stroller-friendly paths and a vibrant playground, your little ones can laugh, play, and explore ...
Major Reaction
Took my family to the zoo yesterday. It had been years since we last visited this location, and we thought it would be fun to go back. We spent about 5 hours walking through the entire park, trying to find every exhibit and animal. Many of the exhibits were closed for renovations or due to new animals being introduced into their habitats (i.e. gorilla). There were still more than enough animals an...
Jonathan Phan
Located at Sloat Blvd & Upper Great Hwy, the San Francisco Zoo is a spacious, family-friendly destination with over 2,000 animals across diverse habitats. Highlights include the African Savanna, Penguin Island, and the Lemur Forest. The zoo is stroller-accessible and offers kid-focused attractions like the steam train, carousel, and a hands-on children’s zoo. Staff are friendly and informative, an...
San Francisco’s weather can be foggy in the morning and sunny by afternoon—bring layers year-round. In spring, the themed gardens burst with wildflowers. On cooler or drizzly days, plan extra time in indoor exhibits like the Insect Zoo and Tropical Building.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo admission (2 adults, 2 kids) | USD 86 |
| Little Puffer Steam Train (4 riders) | USD 36 |
| Dentzel Carousel (2 kids) | USD 8 |
| Casual lunch at zoo café | USD 50 |
| Total Estimated | USD 180 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Address: Sloat Blvd &, Upper Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA
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