Perched on the Great Highway, the 40-hectare San Francisco Zoo is home to at least 1,000 animals, including about 250 species and a few famous characters. Kids gather around Koko the gorilla, who was born at the zoo, as well as Elly, one of the oldest black rhinos in the world.

The zoo is divided into distinct themed sections based on species and habitats. You can enter the Savanna populated by zebras and giraffes or visit the Lemur Forest and Bear Country. The littlest visitors can enjoy the barnyard-themed petting zoo and ride the Dentzel Carousel and Little Puffer Miniature Steam Train.

A wildly popular program known as Zoo Keys gives access to interactive Storybooks scattered throughout the grounds. A key activates boxes that come alive with stories, music and interesting animal facts.

Getting There

You can use the Muni L Taraval line or the BART subway system to access the San Francisco Zoo. Parking lots are positioned just off the Great Highway and Sloat Boulevard. There are dedicated pick-up and drop-off locations for rideshare services and taxis at Sloat and 47th.