Arguably the country's premier zoo. Most of the animals (including a number of endangered species) live in natural-habitat enclosures. It has the largest koala colony outside Australia. One of the biggest attractions is the pandas, and a new cub was born August 2007. Also be sure to see the Polar Bear Plunge and the Rain Forest Aviary. A guided bus tour and a skytram ride are available—you might be thankful for these options after walking some of the hilly terrain. Keep in mind that although the line for the bus' sun-exposed upper deck is much longer than for the lower, the covered lower deck is more comfortable and puts you at eye-level with the animals. Behind-the-scenes tours are available for groups of 15 or more. Opens daily at 9 am, closing times vary by season. US$22.75 adults, US$15.50 children. A combination pass for the Zoo and the Wild Animal Park is available. 2920 Zoo Drive (in Balboa Park), San Diego. Phone 619-231-1515. http://www.sandiegozoo.org.
