We love the San Diego Zoo so much we go weekly. Since we go so much I figured I would share some tips I have learned.
1. Kids are free in October. It can get crowded with school field trips so if you don't like a crowd skip October in general.
2. Kids under 3 are free! No need to purchase a ticket for them.
3. The Keepers Pass was the best deal for our family. We knew we would be going to the zoo a lot and with the Keepers Pass you get discounts on food, free parking at the Safari Park and more. I have the Keepers Pass and my 3yo daughter is my guest eliminating the need for a childs pass.
4. Active Duty get in free with their ID. My husband has never had an issue when he has shown his ID.
5. Bring your own food. We rarely purchase food at the zoo. I always bring a small cooler bag with lunch or dinner. The kids lunch does come with an adorable bag and cup which make great souvenirs.
6. Purchase zoo type shirts at Target or Walmart. My kids love wearing animal shirts to the zoo and finding the animals on the shirt at the zoo. That can get expensive fast so we purchased some cute shirts at Target. You could also purchase one shirt at the zoo and keep wearing it everytime you go to the zoo.
7. Purchase the expensive souvenir cups are expensive but you get free refills the day you purchase. You can also keep bringing them back for refills at a much cheaper cost. We have had our cups over a year now and keep bringing them back. We also reuse a popcorn bucket for cheaper popcorn refills.
8. Download the free app. The app tells you about show times, events and has webcams.
9. With most passes you can ride the Skyfari and the bus for free so pay attention when purchasing your tickets to see if it applies.
How do you save money at the San Diego Zoo? Please share your tips in the comments below.