San Diego is one of the most popular cities in California, known far and wide for its wonderful weather, beaches, and fun activities. One of the activities most loved by children and adults alike is a visit to the San Diego Zoo. 

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in the United States. The facility houses about 4,000 animals on its 100 acres. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience with beautiful, cageless, and open-air exhibits that recreate the animals’ natural habitats.

If you’re a solo parent interested in taking your kids to the San Diego Zoo, the idea alone can be intimidating. Nonetheless, with proper planning and forethought, it can be a wonderful, enriching experience for you and your children.

Going on a Solo Visit To the San Diego Zoo With Your Kids

Whether you’re a custodial or noncustodial parent, you understand that many activities involve thinking ahead and creating a plan; a visit to the San Diego Zoo is no different. The following are some of the top tips for taking your kids to the zoo on your own. 

Plan Your Visit Ahead of Time

One of the best tips for a solo zoo trip with your kids is to plan your visit. The San Diego Zoo’s website is a great place to start, especially if this is your first time.

The Zoo’s site provides extensive information on everything you may need to know to make a comprehensive plan, from directions to details about exhibits. The San Diego Zoo even has a GPS-enabled app for you to gather information before your visit and also use during your adventures within the park. 

Planning ahead also includes purchasing tickets online. Doing so helps you avoid potentially long lines upon your arrival. 

Consider Your Children’s Ages and Interests

Because there is so much to do and see at the San Diego Zoo, it’s helpful to consider your children’s ages and interests. Based on that, you can better plan and determine what’s most important to see and experience.

For example, the zoo has a kids’ play area and splash pad called the Explorers Base Camp. Younger children would likely enjoy this much more than older kids. Older children may prefer other experiences, like the aerial tram, which smaller kids may find scary. 

Bring Along All the Necessities

Also, part of planning is determining what you need for your visit. 

For a successful day at the zoo, you may need:

  • A stroller
  • Sunscreen and sun protection
  • Plenty of water
  • A change of clothes for kids
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A camera

Making a list of what you’ll need at the zoo can help ensure that you don’t forget anything essential and that you have everything you need for a fun-filled day. 

Prioritize Your Kids’ Favorite Animals

With the many exhibits at the San Diego Zoo, you may not have the chance to see them all in one day. Therefore, you should prioritize the animals your kids will most want to see. The most important animals should be visited first because your kids have more energy earlier in the day. 

Be Prepared To Change Your Plans As You Go

Even with a solid plan, you may decide to adjust as you go about your visit. Instead of the apes, your kids may want to see the penguins first or spend more time walking through the park. Plans and interests may change throughout your visit, and that’s okay. 

Treasure the Time With Your Children

The most important part of a visit to the San Diego Zoo with your children is treasuring your time with them. Seeing their joy and excitement makes all the planning worth it. 

Especially if you’re going through a divorce or sharing your time with your children’s other parent, it’s critical to spend as much time with your kids as possible. They’ll have fond memories and thank you for them in the future. 

Contact Our Family Law Firm in San Diego, CA

Contact our experienced San Diego family law lawyers at San Diego Divorce Lawyers, APC today for legal assistance. Contact our San Diego office at (619) 866-3756 to schedule a free consultation.

San Diego Divorce Lawyers, APC
2851 Camino del Rio S #430
San Diego, CA 92108