7 Must-Visit Aquariums and Zoos in San Francisco

Kate ValdezAndrew Lopez
Kate Valdez - Staff Writer Andrew Lopez - Staff Writer 4 Min Read
Photo by Thomas Smith/ Shutterstock

San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars, is also a haven for animal lovers and marine enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of zoos and aquariums that provide educational and fun experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to learn about land animals or explore the mysteries of aquatic life, San Francisco has a place for you. Here are seven must-visit aquariums and zoos in the city.

Aquarium of the Bay

Located at PIER 39, Aquarium of the Bay gives you the chance to get up close with local marine life. With over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish, this aquarium focuses on the creatures from the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters. Don’t miss the walk-through tunnel exhibits and the touch pools.

California Academy of Sciences

This is not just an aquarium but also a planetarium and a natural history museum. The Steinhart Aquarium, located within the California Academy of Sciences, is home to a living coral reef, a rainforest, and a multitude of sea creatures. It’s a comprehensive educational experience that’s perfect for a family outing.

San Francisco Zoo

For a more traditional zoo experience, the San Francisco Zoo offers a glimpse into the lives of over 1,000 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals from more than 250 species. The zoo is committed to connecting visitors with wildlife and inspiring conservation action. It’s a great place to learn about animals from around the globe.

Oakland Zoo

Just a short drive from San Francisco, the Oakland Zoo is known for its naturalistic habitats and community-focused conservation efforts. The zoo houses over 700 animals and offers unique experiences like the Outback Adventure Train and the endangered species carousel.

Sea Lion Center

Operated by the Aquarium of the Bay, the Sea Lion Center at PIER 39 is a free attraction where you can learn about the charismatic sea lions that have made the docks their home. Interactive displays and educational videos provide insight into the importance of these animals to the local ecosystem.

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Although a bit farther from San Francisco, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose is worth the trip. It combines a zoo with an amusement park, offering rides and animal encounters. It’s a fun-filled destination for those traveling with children.

Safari West

For an adventure that feels like a trip to Africa, Safari West in Santa Rosa allows you to see giraffes, rhinos, and other wildlife in a natural setting. This wildlife preserve and African tent camp provides guided tours and is an exciting escape from the city.

When planning your visit to these attractions, consider the unique experiences each one offers. From the urban oasis of the San Francisco Zoo to the immersive underwater tunnels of the Aquarium of the Bay, there’s something for everyone in San Francisco’s array of zoos and aquariums.

Share This Article
Staff Writer
Kate Valdez is a staff writer based in the San Francisco, where she explores Latino identity in religion, arts and culture. She was part of the team that launched De Los, a new section of the Los Angeles Times exploring Latinidad in L.A. and across the country. As a staff writer, you can find her bylines in the LA Times, Religion News Service. Her work has appeared in the Associated Press and the Washington Post. kate.valdez@collegeunified.com
Staff Writer
Andrew Lopez is a San Francisco native with roots all over the Eastside. He earned a master’s degree at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism. He enjoys covering the intersections between art, culture and history within communities. Andrew is part of the inaugural cohort of the California Local News Fellowship. andrew.lopez@collegeunified.com