A pond with flamingos and ducks.

San Diego San Diego Zoo Hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Guest rating

Selecting then applying a filter from this group will update the results on a new page

Star rating

Our top choices for San Diego Zoo hotels

Stay Classy Hostel

Stay Classy Hostel
2.0 star property
East Village, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (892 reviews)
"Great staff, check in was super easy and upon walking inside the building I felt super welcomed and its very clean and super comfortable"
United States
Miguel
The price is HK$413
HK$469 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Stay Classy Hostel

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
4.0 star property
Little Italy, 2 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (797 reviews)
The price is HK$1,678
HK$1,945 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy

Westgate Hotel

Westgate Hotel
4.5 star property
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,022 reviews)
"Clean romantic location staff was kind and helpful great location."
United States
Juan J
The price is HK$1,556
HK$2,076 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Jul - 21 Jul
Westgate Hotel

Hotel Z

Hotel Z
3.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.9 km from San Diego Zoo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,061 reviews)
"Super nice staff very helpful Will stay again great location"
United States
Allen
The price is HK$1,154
HK$1,610 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Hotel Z

Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels
4.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (801 reviews)
The price is HK$1,716
HK$1,990 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels

Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Best Western Plus Bayside Inn
3.0 star property
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,011 reviews)
"Hotel has a great location, we used the hot tub and it was a lovely add to the hotel. I would stay there again"
United States
Erandeni
The price is HK$1,247
HK$1,444 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Jul - 21 Jul
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

Gaslamp Hostel

Gaslamp Hostel
2.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (635 reviews)
"It was clean, everyone was friendly, and all necessary information was clearly communicated. Would stay again."
United States
Benjamin
The price is HK$900
HK$1,024 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Gaslamp Hostel

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown
4.0 star property
2.4 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,012 reviews)
"Good breakfast, clean, good service…"
United States
Mario
The price is HK$1,404
HK$1,628 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown

The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel
4.0 star property
2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,217 reviews)
"Room is very comfortable. Staff is nice."
United States
Yachun
The price is HK$1,403
HK$1,627 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
The Guild Hotel, San Diego Downtown, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
4.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.6 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,012 reviews)
"Location of the Hotel is great for restaurants "
United States
Aruny
The price is HK$1,662
HK$2,156 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection

Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection
4.0 star property
2.5 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,102 reviews)
"Great property with respectable staff and clean room."
United States
Ananya Bhargavi
The price is HK$1,221
HK$1,780 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection

Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
4.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 3 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,426 reviews)
"Stayed there for a conference, great choice"
Canada
Rene-Peiman
The price is HK$1,568
HK$2,181 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Little Italy Inn - Limited Service Apart Hotel

Little Italy Inn - Limited Service Apart Hotel
2.5 star property
Little Italy, 2 km from San Diego Zoo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (173 reviews)
"the rooms were clean, everything was located so close less than 10 mins away! i loved it for our stay"
United States
annalisa
The price is HK$862
HK$981 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Little Italy Inn - Limited Service Apart Hotel

AC Hotel by Marriott San Diego Downtown Gaslamp Quarter

AC Hotel by Marriott San Diego Downtown Gaslamp Quarter
4.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 2.7 km from San Diego Zoo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,145 reviews)
"This is our favorite hotel to stay at. It is a fun location with lots to do in walking distance. The hotel is extremely clean and staff is friendly and helpful. The only downside is the room was very small, but it’s not too bad."
United States
Nessa
The price is HK$1,325
HK$1,536 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
AC Hotel by Marriott San Diego Downtown Gaslamp Quarter

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Downtown by IHG
2.5 star property
1.9 km from San Diego Zoo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,734 reviews)
"it was a great stay! Very helpful staff."
United States
Angela
The price is HK$1,178
HK$1,366 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
Holiday Inn Express San Diego Downtown by IHG

The Bristol Hotel San Diego

The Bristol Hotel San Diego
3.5 star property
2.5 km from San Diego Zoo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,578 reviews)
"Centrally located, great staff, spacious rooms."
United States
Adrian
The price is HK$1,229
HK$1,425 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
The Bristol Hotel San Diego

Abpopa Hillcrest

Abpopa Hillcrest
3.0 star property
Hillcrest, 1.6 km from San Diego Zoo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (709 reviews)
"Such a great place. Great location and responsive and kind staff!"
United States
BOBBY
The price is HK$1,050
HK$1,184 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Abpopa Hillcrest

Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
4.0 star property
Gaslamp Quarter, 3.2 km from San Diego Zoo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (385 reviews)
"Pretty good stay"
United States
Patricia
The price is HK$1,614
HK$2,235 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Ash&9th

Ash&9th
2.0 star property
1.9 km from San Diego Zoo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (798 reviews)
"Enjoyed so much, staying again"
United States
Regina
The price is HK$819
HK$932 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Ash&9th

Hotel Indigo San Diego-Gaslamp Quarter by IHG

Hotel Indigo San Diego-Gaslamp Quarter by IHG
4.0 star property
East Village, 2.9 km from San Diego Zoo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,014 reviews)
"Our favorite hotel in San Diego. Just enjoyed our second stay and we will be back. Location is wonderful with tons of amazing food choices nearby. Quick lyft ride to the Zoo & Mission beach. Staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the area."
United States
Brittany
The price is HK$1,236
HK$1,779 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Hotel Indigo San Diego-Gaslamp Quarter by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels close to San Diego Zoo

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Memory-foam beds, blackout curtains, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Stay Classy Hostel
2.0 star property
9.6
Exceptional
892 reviews
View
View from room
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy
4.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
797 reviews
View
Interior entrance
Westgate Hotel
4.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,022 reviews
View
Gym
Hotel Z
3.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,061 reviews
View
Front of property
Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter, A Member Of Design Hotels
4.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
801 reviews
View

Top San Diego Zoo Hotel Reviews

Hotels near other San Diego Zoo attractions

Find out more about San Diego Zoo

Top reasons to visit San Diego Zoo

  • Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Experience captivating wildlife with a vast array of animals from around the globe.
  • Beautiful Surroundings: Explore stunning landscapes in Balboa Park and nearby urban parks, perfect for relaxation.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy engaging attractions suitable for all ages, including animal nursery visits.
  • Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover local art and vibrant neighbourhoods, like Little Italy, enhancing your visit.
  • Convenient Accommodation: Choose from various hotels and resorts, offering amenities for families and adventurous travellers.

Find great hotels near San Diego Zoo

For an unforgettable stay near the renowned San Diego Zoo, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options, including resorts and apartments. These hotels cater to adventurous travellers, offering pet-friendly amenities and facilities for business trips. Whether you seek proximity to the zoo or wish to explore the vibrant city, you'll find the perfect lodging choice to enhance your vacation experience.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle: This 3-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on adventure and outdoor activities. Located a mere 3km from San Diego Zoo, Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle caters to both business travellers and adventurous holidaymakers. The hotel features a variety of exhilarating activities nearby, including windsurfing, snorkelling, and parasailing. Additionally, it is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on-site, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to travel with their furry companions. Guests appreciate the variety of recreational options available, alongside comfortable accommodation that suits a range of needs.
  • Wyndham San Diego Bayside: This 4-star property boasts a prime location just 3km from San Diego Zoo, making it a fantastic base for families and adventurers alike. Wyndham San Diego Bayside stands out with its impressive range of activities such as kayaking, boat tours, and even skydiving nearby. Families will find thoughtful amenities, including complimentary cribs and services tailored for children, ensuring a pleasant stay for guests of all ages. The hotel’s scenic views and proximity to popular attractions enhance its appeal, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.
  • Best Western Seven Seas: This inviting 3-star hotel is conveniently located 3km from San Diego Zoo, making it suitable for families, business travellers, and adventure seekers. Best Western Seven Seas features a variety of nearby activities such as windsurfing, sailing, and hiking, providing ample opportunities for exploration. The hotel also offers amenities for children, including complimentary cribs and child-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. With its blend of recreational options and family-oriented facilities, this hotel caters well to those looking to enjoy a memorable San Diego vacation.

Where to stay near San Diego Zoo

Exploring the vibrant areas surrounding San Diego Zoo offers a delightful experience for visitors. Just a short distance away, you'll find friendly neighbourhoods filled with charming cafes and stunning scenery. The downtown area boasts an urban atmosphere with historical landmarks and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're wandering through Balboa Park or enjoying the nearby Little Italy, each destination promises a unique glimpse into San Diego's culture and warmth, making your visit truly memorable.

  • San Diego: A vibrant coastal city, San Diego is home to the renowned San Diego Zoo and boasts a diverse array of attractions. With a climate that invites year-round exploration, visitors flock to San Diego for its family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and stunning beaches. Highlights include the beautiful coastline, exciting theme parks, and shopping centres. The city's rich cultural scene and educational venues make it a perfect destination for all types of travellers.
  • Downtown San Diego: Located a mere 3km from the San Diego Zoo, Downtown San Diego is a bustling neighbourhood that offers a mix of urban excitement and coastal charm. This area attracts visitors for its family-oriented activities, outdoor spaces, and city-themed experiences. With shopping centres and malls aplenty, there's something for everyone. Notable local attractions include the nearby beaches, event venues, and theme parks, making it a convenient base for exploration.
  • Gaslamp Quarter: Just 3km from San Diego Zoo, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighbourhood known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn here for family activities, outdoor enjoyment, and a touch of business flair. The area features a variety of shopping centres, resorts, and educational sites, all within walking distance. Key landmarks include event conference venues, sports facilities, and the convention centre, making it a lively hub for both leisure and business travellers.

Things to do near San Diego Zoo

Shopping

At San Diego Zoo, you’ll find unique gifts and souvenirs at their various shops, offering everything from plush toys to educational books. If you're up for a drive, check out Fashion Valley Mall, located 19km away, featuring a range of high-end and casual shopping options.

Recreation

The San Diego Zoo offers tranquil spots like the Australian Outback habitat, where you can unwind amid lush landscapes and observe unique wildlife. For a serene break, explore the tranquil Botanical Garden, featuring diverse plant species that promote relaxation and connection with nature.

Adventure

At Barona Speedway, located 40km from San Diego Zoo, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere filled with sports and adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the San Diego Zoo at night during special events like Nighttime Zoo, featuring live music and unique animal encounters. For a vibrant nightlife, explore nearby venues such as The Casbah for live music or The Gaslamp Quarter, offering a lively mix of bars and restaurants.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Diego Zoo

To save money during your visit to San Diego Zoo, consider travelling between November and January, as accommodation prices are lower during this period. Aim for a Tuesday stay to benefit from the cheapest rates. Use Expedia to filter your hotel options by budget and eco-certification for sustainable choices. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Look out for special deals on San Diego Zoo tickets to maximise your budget while enjoying all the attractions the zoo has to offer.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Diego Zoo are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around San Diego Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking for the San Diego Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Diego Zoo

While visiting the San Diego Zoo, tourists can explore nearby urban parks, the maritime museum, and private gardens, offering a blend of culture and outdoor experiences for families. For a memorable stay, consider the best San Diego resorts, and don't miss the western San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers, ensuring an enriching visit to this renowned destination.

  • Balboa Park: A stunning urban oasis, Balboa Park boasts beautiful gardens, museums, and cultural institutions. Located a mere 805m from the San Diego Zoo, visitors can stroll through diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in the vibrant arts scene.
  • USS Midway Museum: Situated 3km from the zoo, the USS Midway Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into naval history aboard a historic aircraft carrier. Explore the interactive exhibits and soak up the rich culture of maritime heritage.
  • Hotel Circle: Just 3km away, Hotel Circle is a lively street lined with hotels and dining options. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy easy access to various attractions, making it a convenient base for your San Diego adventures.

Best time to go to San Diego Zoo

The best time to visit San Diego Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around San Diego Zoo falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Diego Zoo

Flying into SAN Diego Zoo is convenient from San Diego International Airport (SAN), situated 5km away. Excellent hotel options nearby include the 5-star Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, both offering easy access to the airport. Additionally, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a premium choice 19km from the airport. For those considering other airports, John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 124km away, with luxurious stays like The Resort at Pelican Hill and Balboa Bay Resort close by. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), located 135km away, offers high-end accommodations such as Parker Palm Springs and L'Horizon Resort & Spa.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around San Diego Zoo?
San Diego Zoo is located in an area of San Diego known for its array of dining options, bird watching and popular zoo. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 131 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.
What's the best place to stay near San Diego Zoo?
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this aparthotel offers a 24-hour fitness centre and free WiFi. It's located just a short 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from San Diego Zoo. Other good choices within a few miles include Wyndham San Diego Bayside and The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection.
How many hotels will I be able to find near San Diego Zoo?
Expedia has 131 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from San Diego Zoo.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near San Diego Zoo, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of room reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to review the top deals on offer near San Diego Zoo.
What can I see and do near San Diego Zoo?
USS Midway Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum and San Diego Air and Space Museum feature captivating exhibits. Hotel del Coronado, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala and California Tower are landmarks that you won't want to miss. You can watch performances at San Diego Civic Theatre, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park and Humphreys Concerts by the Bay if you're interested in local theatre.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia