Can You Buy San Diego Zoo Tickets at Costco?

For many years, Costco members could enjoy discounted admission to theme parks across the United States. One of the most frequently searched questions on our site is whether you can still buy Costco San Diego Zoo tickets.



I feel it’s important to answer this in detail so that you don’t waste time scouring nearby warehouses and can focus your money-saving energy on other legitimate discounts.



The Answer Is… No (But Don’t Worry)



Costco no longer sells San Diego Zoo tickets or individual tickets to any theme parks. The theme park ticket section of their website has long since been deleted.



I am a Costco member, and every time I go into our local warehouse here in San Diego (which — random fact — was the very first Costco ever, so it’s a big one), I look at the gift card section, which is where these tickets used to live.



I have not seen Costco San Diego Zoo or Safari Park tickets in our store, nor have I seen LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld San Diego, Disneyland, or tickets to any other theme park. Our store doesn’t currently have sightseeing passes, and our readers have not found discounted admission in-store either.


You CAN occasionally find discounts to our local sports teams and restaurants at Costco.


However, it’s always worth checking your store (without going out of your way) as offerings are always subject to change. If you see any Costco San Diego Zoo passes when in your local warehouse let me know.



What About Costco Travel Packages



Costco Travel currently doesn’t sell vacation packages that involve San Diego theme parks. You can’t book a San Diego hotel through them, from what I can see unless you also book a rental car, which isn’t always necessary (and don’t get me started on how much it costs to park at some of our hotels).



They DO sell vacation packages that include hotels and tickets to major U.S. theme parks like Disneyland, Disney World, and Universal Studios. They’re just not much help when traveling to San Diego.



Why We Know Finding a Discount Is Important



When I first started visiting the San Diego Zoo, the cost of admission was around $25. Today, the gate prices are $74/adult and $64/child, which means a family of four could spend $276 for a one-day visit. And, that price is before any incidentals like dining or souvenirs.



Finding discounts is so crucial and, thankfully, doable. We understand that sightseeing costs in San Diego can add up, which is why we spend so much time helping people find the right ways to save money.



Where to Find Legitimate Costco Alternatives



How you buy Zoo admission really depends on what other San Diego attractions are on your itinerary and how many days you’ll sightsee. We have a promo code that’s the best value on 1-Day San Diego Zoo and Safari Park tickets that’s publicly available. However, there are two sightseeing passes that you may want to check out if your itinerary includes other theme parks and museums.



You’ll see after reading my guide that you don’t need a Costco San Diego Zoo pass of any sort.








Our guide for saving Money on San Diego Zoo tickets

A must-read for the run-down on special offers, sightseeing passes, group discounts, and… how to access my promo code .


LEARN HOW TO SAVE





Why We Love San Diego Zoo



I’ve been a San Diego Wildlife Alliance member for some time because I love both parks. Since the focus of this post is on San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, you can later dive deeper into my love of San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido.



The animals : You are going to see animals after all! My favorites include the koalas, polar bears, Galapagos turtles, elephants, pygmy hippos, and all of the monkeys.

The new children’s zoo : Wildlife Explorer’s Basecamp is a special area to the left of the entrance just for younger kids. Not only does it include animals and insects you don’t see in other parts of the zoo, but there’s a huge climbing area and splash pads for kids to enjoy!

Free transportation once inside : It’s a bit hilly, so it’s nice that you can take an aerial tram up and downhill, the guided bus tour, or the hop-on and off Kangaroo Bus included with general admission.

Free parking : And it’s a big parking lot. If it’s full, you can also try to find street parking or free parking in a nearby museum lot.

Easy navigation and planning thanks to the app : Download and research before you go.



More Resources for Your Visit


San Diego Zoo vs. SeaWorld San Diego: Which Is Best to Visit? Learn whether SeaWorld San Diego or San Diego Zoo is the best for your vacation if you can only choose one theme park. 7 Ways the San Diego Zoo App Helps Plan Your Visit Learn how the San Diego Zoo app makes getting around easier and helps guests create an itinerary of must-see animals and exhibits. How to Buy Discount San Diego Zoo Tickets: 17 Ways to Save (2024) These are the best ways to buy trustworthy discounted tickets to the San Diego Zoo. The Unexpected Origins of the San Diego Zoo A San Diego Zoo history summary that touches on the unlikely yet interesting events leading to the Zoo opening its doors in 1923. San Diego Zoo Animals and Attractions: The Must-See List I share favorite San Diego Zoo animals and attractions from endangered okapis to koalas. Knowing the highlights will help you maximize your visit. San Diego Zoo Restaurants: Best Places to Eat Now & Food Tips What to know about San Diego Zoo restaurants and dining including where to eat lunch, my favorite desserts to look for, and adult beverages. 10 Best Hotels Near San Diego Zoo My list of best hotels near San Diego Zoo includes options for closest, luxury, families, and cheap in fun neighborhoods surrounding this top attraction. San Diego Zoo for Kids and Toddlers: Things to Do and Tips from a (Mom) Member I’m a member and a mom with many tips for maximizing a day at San Diego Zoo for kids and toddlers while keeping parents sane and seeing the popular animals. 10 Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo from a Long-Time Member How to maximize your visit to the San Diego Zoo including tips for getting around the park, avoiding crowds, buying tickets and more.