San Diego Zoo

With thousands of animals in hundreds of habitats, the San Diego Zoo is the biggest zoo in California. It houses all of the usual suspects, including lions, gorillas and elephants, but it’s also home to unique species like the pancake tortoise and the clouded leopard. Some of these creatures are only on display at the San Diego Zoo, so it’s a rare opportunity to see and photograph them in real life. Visitors to the zoo can hop on a train or ride a gondola skylift to reach different enclosures. Special events happen on the weekends for kids and couples, including “sunrise tours” before the zoo opens and “wild nights out” that include drinks, music and animal petting. Are you still planning your vacation from home? Check out the zoo’s live cams on your smartphone to watch the frolicking of penguins and polar bears. You can decide if you’re interested in a visit before you even pack your bag. The San Diego Zoo is easily one of the top things to do in California. If you want a fun time with your favorite critters, buy a ticket today. Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States