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With more than 4 million visitors in 2018, San Diego Zoo is the most visited zoo in the United States. It’s home to more than 3,500 animals across 650 species, and its conservation efforts span the globe. But beyond that, it’s just a really great place to explore—and its central location makes exploring the rest of the city easy, too. Here are some hotels near San Diego Zoo for your next visit.
Inn at the Park
Inn at the Park directly overlooks Balboa Park, home to the zoo, which is easily within walking distance—but if you’d prefer to save your steps for inside the attraction, the hotel also offers a paid shuttle service. This Inn at the Park is also a great choice for families: each room is a suite that includes a fully-outfitted kitchen. The property also has a scenic outdoor garden, and a sun deck on the roof where you can see the park and downtown San Diego. Old Town, Little Italy and Coronado Island are all in easy proximity, as are the beaches.
The US Grant Hotel
The US Grant Hotel has been a fixture in San Diego’s Gaslamp District for over 100 years, and is within close proximity to theaters, restaurants, nightlife and the San Diego Zoo. The Art Deco Grant Grill offers on-property fine dining, and the Rendezvous Bar serves French-inspired craft cocktails. A spa suite offers massages and other treatments. The hotel is also home to a multimillion-dollar art collection, which is on display throughout the property.
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
One of the best things about the San Diego Zoo is that it’s in the middle of the city, which means easy access from many of San Diego’s iconic neighborhoods. The Hilton, within the Gaslamp District, is near it all—but also has a lot to offer on-property. Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter has three restaurants and bars: New Leaf, serving California cuisine; New Leaf Bar, offering craft cocktails; and Toscana Cafe & Wine Bar, with extensive wines and Italian food. There’s also a pool, a fitness center and a waterfront patio with fire pits.
Paradise Point Resort and Spa
Paradise Point, in Mission Bay, is surrounded by a mile of beach, and has a marina with boats, jet skis, kayaks and other water sport rentals. Paradise Surf Academy offers daily surfing lessons, and 14 miles of beachfront walking paths—but when you need a break from the salt water, the resort also has five pools and five restaurants. There’s a full-service spa, an 18-hole putting green, and basketball and tennis courts.
