Zoo Brew

The San Diego Zoo, located just north of downtown San Diego in Balboa Park, is the city's most famous attraction. Locals and tourists love exploring this 100-acre zoo that is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals, representing more than 650 species and subspecies that are not commonly found in other zoos. Besides the exotic animals, the zoo also has an exquisite botanical collection of more than 700,000 exotic plants.

Best and worst times to go to San Diego Zoo
On weekdays, in the afternoon is the best time to go to the zoo. Morning school trips have cleared out by then and the line for the Giant Panda Exhibit is shorter. During the summer, morning and evenings are the best times to visit. Especially since the zoo is open until 9:00 p.m. from June to September. The worst times to visit the zoo are on weekends and weekday mornings.

Must see/do at San Diego Zoo

• Panda Canyon: The most popular exhibit (with the longest line) at the San Diego zoo is the giant panda viewing. The zoo has three giant pandas located in a large exhibit with trees, climbing equipment and air-conditioned bedrooms.
• Tiger Trail: This exhibit simulates a natural jungle habitat where you can safely watch Malayan tigers from three vantage points along the trail.
• Elephant Odyssey: Highlights southern California animals that are now extinct and their descendants including California condors and lions. The habitat also features Asian and African elephants and jaguars.

Admission to San Diego Zoo
The zoo is open every day of the year (including all holidays) from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From June to September, it's open until 9:00 p.m. Tickets are available as 1-day, multi-day passes and other packages to visit several attractions. A 1-Day pass includes one visit to the zoo, unlimited use of Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari aerial tram and all regularly scheduled shows. Check the zoo's website for ticket prices, as they do change periodically.

Parking and public transportation at San Diego Zoo
Parking at the zoo is free, but you might have to search for a while before finding a good spot. Expect a long walk before reaching the zoo entrance. If you're taking public transportation, take either Bus #7 or Rapid #215 to be dropped off on Park Boulevard near the driveway entrance to the San Diego Zoo.

Food at San Diego Zoo
The zoo allows guests to bring their own food, so save money by packing a lunch. Bring plenty of water, since you're going to be walking for most of the day. If you want to eat at the zoo there are several restaurants to choose from.

Insider tip for visitors to San Diego Zoo
Bring a handful of quarters with you to the zoo, so that you can get a rejuvenating foot massage at the tiger-striped foot massage chair.

Author's bio: Rose Wheeler has lived in San Diego for over nine years. She's been published in "La Jolla Patch," "Global Post" and Yahoo. Her blog regularly features great local finds and trending style tips.