Zoo/Balboa park

Question

Hello. Coming to SD for 5 days with my wife. Should we do Balboa park and the zoo on a weekend, or a weekday? Thx!

Answer

For a 5-day visit to San Diego, it’s generally best to visit Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo on a weekday rather than a weekend. Weekends tend to be much busier with locals and tourists, which can make parking, walking through exhibits, and enjoying the gardens more crowded.

Some considerations for planning your visit:

Weekday Advantage: Visiting Monday through Friday usually means lighter crowds at both Balboa Park and the Zoo. Lines for entry, popular exhibits, and attractions will be shorter, making for a more relaxed experience.
Parking: Weekdays often provide easier access to parking at both Balboa Park and the Zoo. On weekends, parking lots fill up early, and you may need to park farther away or use shuttles.
Special Events: Check the event calendars for Balboa Park and the Zoo. Some special exhibits, performances, or activities may only be available on certain days, so planning ahead can help maximize your experience.

Additional tips to make the most of your visit:

Arrive early in the morning when both the Zoo and Balboa Park open to avoid peak crowd times.
Consider splitting your visits—perhaps the Zoo one day and Balboa Park gardens/museums another—to avoid feeling rushed.
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes as both locations involve significant walking outdoors.

In summary, weekdays are preferable for a calmer, more enjoyable experience at Balboa Park and the Zoo. Plan ahead, arrive early, and check for any special events that might affect crowd levels or open hours.

Zoo/Balboa park

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