Best Zoo in Del Mar

"This justifiably famous zoo is one of SoCal’s biggest attractions, showing more than 3000 animals representing more than 650 species in a beautifully landscaped setting, typically in enclosures that replicate their natural habitats. Its sister park is San Diego Zoo Safari Park in northern San Diego County.Arrive early, as many of the animals are most active in the morning – though many perk up again in the afternoon. Pick up a map at the zoo entrance to find your favorite exhibits."

"Penguins and rare plant life are just a hint of what you’ll see when you visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Throughout its 100 acres, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled around the world as you see some of the most intriguing and rarely-seen animals lounge in their natural, expansive habitats. With more than 4,000 animals representing 800 species, the San Diego Zoo stands out among other zoos for its diverse wildlife citizens."

"Little ones (and bigger kids too!) can get super hot walking around all day, so head to the Savannah Cool Zone for some splash time. You'll find water spraying and big, slippery play critters that spout water: a turtle, a lion, and a crocodile. On a warm day, your tyke is sure to dry quickly as you continue your adventure, but we suggest going all in and wearing a swimsuit for this essential pit stop."

"The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary that is home to more than 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species. Its renowned botanical collection represents 3,500 species and 1.75 million specimens. Over half of the Park’s 1,800 acres have been set aside as protected native species habitat."

"Where: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd.Transport yourself to the savannah quicker than you can say “Look at that leaping lemur!. ” Sidle up to giraffes, rhinos, and antelopes on the Africa Tram. Track Sumatran tigers on the three-exhibit Tiger Trail."

"Escondido’s best-known attraction is Safari Park, the sister park to the San Diego Zoo. The Safari Park is 1800-plus acres of exotic animals and botanical gardens galore, carved out of the hills just outside Escondido."

"Juniper St.Get as close as you’d like to 200 rescued reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods, including a 17-foot python, a green anaconda, and an Asian water monitor. Kids and adults alike will learn a lot more than how the scales of a cuddly tegu lizard feel—they’ll get an education into threats plaguing these amazing creatures all over the world. Arrange a personal photoshoot with a few animal ambassadors to use as your next holiday card or gift."

"The Lost Forest is a fun little area packed with extensive trails that wind through exhibits and aviaries. These trails are home to animals from the rainforests of Asia and Africa, and wind their way up into the canopy as well as along the forest floor, with arboreal animals displayed above and ground dwellers below. You’ll find monkeys, barbirusas, tigers, great apes, okapis, and several various species of exotic birds."

"Guests will feel like there are in the rain forest when they enter the Lost Forest. The Lost Forest is in the northeast corner of the Zoo. Some animals in this area include hippos, tigers, okapi, otters, birds and primates."

"The Asian Passage is south of Panda Canyon and is a simulation of a tropical Asian rain forest. This scenic passage includes grizzly bears, snow leopards, and sun bears. This spectacular area also features the Sun Bear Forest, which resembles a southeast Asian rain forest, and the Hawaiian Native Plant Garden."

"The Asian Passage area includes the Sun Bear Forest, Grizzly Bear exhibit, and more. It’s a fun area to explore, and isn’t quite as big as Africa Rocks."

"Elephant Odyssey is one of the most well known parts of the park. It’s a huge area that’s dedicated solely to several beautiful African and Asian elephants. The Elephants are free to roam among large areas, and it also includes the Elephant Care Center where you may see a zookeeper caring for one of them."

"The Elephant Odyssey is home to the African and Asian elephant habitat. This area includes the majestic elephants along with the Elephant Care Center and Fossil Portal. Guests can also see lions, jaguars, California condor, camels, and the Malayan tapir."

"Claire's on Cedros, located in Solana Beach, is an award-winning breakfast and lunch spot. The in-house bakery produces breakfast delights such as scones, cookies, muffins and more. The rest of the breakfast and lunch menu is made up of bistro classics using the finest, locally-sourced ingredients available."

"What's a good way to get your half-pint to eat a multi-grain pancake?. Easy, just head to Claire's on Cedros. For one thing, kids chow down these pancakes topped with powdered sugar and chocolate chips."

"IF YOU HAVE NEVER EATEN AT THIS RESTERANT RUN TO THE DOOR. THE FOOD THERE IS OUT OF THIS WORLD. ITS SO FRESH AND FAVORFUL YOU…"

"In-N-Out Burger is just a classic fast food chain out West, it originated in California in 1948. It’s famous because the chain has barely changed since then. Stepping into an In-N-Out Burger will take you back to the 40’s with its interior design, same small menu, similar prices, and high quality!"

"This 27-acre (11ha) ranch was built by actor and conservationist Lee Carrillo (The Cisco Kid) in the 1830s, but it’s now a Historic National Landmark that’s been operating since 2003. Find peacocks, windmills, nature and historic adobe structures via a guided or solo walking tour. A video on the history of the ranch plays in the old barn."

"History meets adventure at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historical Park. This space, a fully functioning ranch named Rancho de Los Kiotes, is now a 27-acre (11-ha) manicured paradise, one that boasts aesthetic beauty and educational value. Much of the ranch is perfectly preserved history, amidst a mystifying natural landscape."

"Built by William Heath Davis in 1850, many fascinating people, including Alonzo Horton, have called the William Heath Davis House 'home.' You'll get to tour the home, and its decorated rooms - each representing different eras in the life of the house and its various former (and rumored ghostly current) inhabitants. Getting in: William Heath Davis House tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card All-Inclusive Pass."