San Francisco Zoo
Families come for the more than 2,000 animals, kids' zoo, steam train, carousel & special exhibits.
San Francisco Zoo is rated 4.4 / 5 from 14,367 Google reviews and sits about 4.2 km (53 min walk) from Daly City station.
General overview
About San Francisco Zoo
San Francisco Zoo is a roughly 100-acre zoological park near Ocean Beach in the southwest corner of San Francisco, home to animals from around the world, gardens, family attractions, and educational programs. This information is based on general training knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- More than 2,000 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals
- Large naturalistic habitats including African, Australian, South American, and Asian animal areas
- Children’s Zoo and family-oriented exhibits
- Located beside Ocean Beach and the Great Highway
- Historic Little Puffer steam train, when operating
- Gardens, walking paths, seasonal activities, and educational programming
Things to do here
Animal Exhibits
Explore habitats featuring species such as gorillas, giraffes, lions, tigers, grizzly bears, penguins, koalas, kangaroos, and other wildlife. Exact exhibits and animal availability can change.
Children’s Zoo
Family-focused area with interactive elements and opportunities to learn about smaller animals and domestic species. Availability of individual features may vary.
Little Puffer Train
A historic miniature steam train attraction traditionally offered within the zoo for an additional fee or as part of selected packages, subject to operation and weather.
Keeper Talks and Animal Presentations
Educational talks, feedings, and demonstrations may be scheduled throughout the day, depending on staffing and animal-welfare considerations.
Gardens and Walking Grounds
Walk through landscaped grounds, themed gardens, and outdoor habitats. Comfortable shoes are recommended because the zoo is extensive and includes hills.
Seasonal Events
The zoo may offer holiday programs, family events, camps, and special educational activities during the year.
The zoo is at the far southwest end of San Francisco near Ocean Beach. Public transit, rideshare, and driving are possible. Allow extra time for traffic and parking, and check transit conditions before departure.
Advance online purchase may be useful during weekends, holidays, school breaks, or special events. Confirm whether timed entry or reservations are currently required.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
San Francisco Zoo is about 4.2 km (~53 min walk) from Daly City station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Cinemark Century Daly City 20 XD and IMAX
Restaurants · 6 min walk
★ 4.3
Original Joe’s Westlake
Restaurants · 19 min walk
★ 4.5
Hampton Inn San Francisco-Daly City
Hotels · 21 min walk
★ 4.4
In-N-Out Burger
Restaurants · 25 min walk
★ 4.6
Lake Merced Park
Places to visit · 33 min walk
★ 4.5
The Franciscan Park
Hotels · 39 min walk
★ 4.1
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to San Francisco Zoo from Daly City station?
San Francisco Zoo is about 4207 m (roughly 53 min walk) from Daly City station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is San Francisco Zoo rated?
San Francisco Zoo has a Google rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 14,367 reviews.
What's near San Francisco Zoo?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Cinemark Century Daly City 20 XD and IMAX, Original Joe’s Westlake, Hampton Inn San Francisco-Daly City.
Is San Francisco Zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for San Francisco Zoo: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near San Francisco Zoo?
Google lists these parking options near San Francisco Zoo: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is San Francisco Zoo good for children?
Yes — Google lists San Francisco Zoo as good for children.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Plan on about 3–5 hours for the main zoo. Families and visitors attending talks or riding the train may want most of the day.
Is the zoo suitable for young children?
Yes. The Children’s Zoo, family programming, open spaces, and animal exhibits make it a popular family destination. A stroller may be helpful because the grounds are large.
Can I bring outside food?
Outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are commonly permitted for personal use, but restrictions may apply. Confirm the current policy before visiting.
Is the zoo accessible by public transportation?
Yes. Muni bus service serves the general area, although travel from central San Francisco can take time. Check current routes and schedules before departure.
Is parking available?
On-site parking is generally available, but it may fill or incur a fee on busy days. Arrive early or consider public transit.
Can I see every animal in one visit?
Not always. Animals may be indoors, resting, off exhibit, or temporarily unavailable for veterinary or habitat reasons.
Are tickets usually timed?
The zoo has traditionally offered general admission, but reservation or timed-entry rules can change. Check the official ticket page before traveling.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers. The Ocean Beach area can be cool, foggy, or windy even when other parts of San Francisco are warm.
Can I bring a service animal?
Service animals may be accommodated under applicable accessibility rules, but animal-specific restrictions can apply. Contact the zoo before arrival for guidance.
Is this information current?
No. None of the information here has been live-verified. Prices, hours, exhibits, reservations, parking, policies, and contact details should be confirmed at sfzoo.org before relying on them.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.