10 Best Hotels near the San Diego Zoo

Calling all animal lovers! Find the best hotels and resorts when you are planning to visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo and beautiful Downtown San Diego!
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Best Hotels near the San Diego Zoo
Variety of Hotels
Hotels near the Zoo List
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Tours & Adventures

Discover top hotels and resorts for your San Diego adventure, perfect for animal lovers! Explore options near the renowned San Diego Zoo and charming Downtown San Diego. Click the play button to plan your dream getaway!

Discover a Variety of Hotels for your Trip to the San Diego Zoo

Afternoon Tea at the Westgate HotelLobby Bar at the Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Animal lovers from around the world travel to the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park to experience more than 3000 animals of 600 different species.

With more than 4 million visitors yearly, the San Diego Zoo is the most popular zoo in the world.

Kids Reading a Map at the San Diego Zoo
Kids Reading a Map at the San Diego Zoo

There is Lots to Do at the Zoo

The Zoo offers a variety of animal habitat experiences and tours. Whether you want to take a 2-hour guided tour, or take a ride on the AerialTram, the San Diego Zoo has something for you.

There are also plenty of experiences for kids. Animal encounters and play areas are located throughout the park. Make sure to check out the schedules to find times to see your favorite animals.

San Diego Zoo Tickets can be purchased separately, or packaged as part of the Go City San Diego pass. The all-inclusive card includes access to over 35 attractions and experiences in the area. In addition, you get up to 55% off when compared to the regular price.

The 10 Best Hotels near the Zoo List

With so many visitors coming to see the zoo, there are an abundance of hotels in the surrounding area. Take a look at our pick for the 10 best hotels the city has to offer near the San Diego Zoo.
The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
View of the Us Grant in San Diego from the Park Across the Street

1) The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

The US Grant, originally opened by Ulysses S. Grant’s son, is a luxury hotel in downtown San Diego, less than 3 miles away from the San Diego Zoo.

The US Grant is the perfect hotel for those looking to experience all the attractions of downtown San Diego.

Watch The US Grant Video

Things to Know About The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Neighborhood
Core-Columbia
The Core-Columbia area of Downtown San Diego is a beautiful mix of sky rises, restaurants, and hotels, complete with activities like music venues and museums.
Hotel Star Rating
5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of $150 per pet, per night
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Property Size
270 Rooms
Prices Starting at $265 / Night
Learn More
The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Main Entrance to the Westing San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

2) The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter is 3 miles south of the San Diego Zoo and offers a central location for your trip to San Diego.

Even though you are in the heart of the city, the Westin offers an outdoor pool and beautiful views of the bay. Spa amenities and a 24-hour fitness center are also available.

Watch The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Video

Things to Know About The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Neighborhood
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp is full of cafes, great nightlife and pedicabs! Visit PETCO Park, the cruise ship port, Balboa Park, Convention Center or tour the USS Midway.
Hotel Star Rating
4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Dogs stay free, with a limit of 1 per room and maximum weight of 50 lbs per pet.
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby
Check In / Check Out
3:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Property Size
450 Rooms
Prices Starting at $143 / Night
Learn More
The Westgate Hotel
Afternoon Tea at the Westgate Hotel

3) The Westgate Hotel

Located about three miles south of the San Diego Zoo, you will find the elegant Westgate Hotel. Found in the Core-Columbia district of downtown San Diego on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, The Westgate gives you a European feel while also reaping the benefits of southern California.

The Westgate Hotel offers the best in fitness amenities. Not only do they have a fitness center to get your workout in, but also offer different classes for you to enjoy. An outdoor pool and hot tub are also available with a panoramic view of downtown San Diego.

Award winning dining is available on site at The Westgate Hotel. Choose from a fine dining experience, brunch outside, or appetizers at the hotel bar!

Watch The Westgate Hotel Video

Things to Know About The Westgate Hotel

Neighborhood
Core-Columbia
The Core-Columbia area of Downtown San Diego is a beautiful mix of sky rises, restaurants, and hotels, complete with activities like music venues and museums.
Hotel Star Rating
4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Only Service Animals are Welcome
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Not Included
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Property Size
223 Rooms
Resort Fee
$20.00
Includes: Pool access, Spa access (may be limited), Fitness center access, Business center/computer access, Internet access (may be limited) and Phone calls (may be limited).
Prices Starting at $169 / Night
Learn More
Porto Vista Hotel
The Beautiful Rooftop Patio at the Porto Vista Hotel

4) Porto Vista Hotel

Three miles west of the San Diego Zoo, in San Diego’s Little Italy, you can find Porto Vista Hotel. This boutique hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, as well as private valet parking and rooftop pool.

Porto Vista is in the center of Little Italy, where you can enjoy the culture as well as the restaurants after a day visiting the zoo. If you want to stay in, you can enjoy a unique dining experience at GlassDoor. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of Little Italy and San Diego Bay.

Watch Porto Vista Hotel Video

Things to Know About Porto Vista Hotel

Neighborhood
Little Italy San Diego
Get a taste of Little Italy San Diego at a sidewalk café, boutique shop or a brewery. Or take a pedicab to explore the famous Embarcadero or Balboa Park.
Hotel Star Rating
3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome, with a limit of 2 per room and maximum weight of 40 lbs per pet. There's a charge of $39 per pet, per day. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
3:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
190 Rooms
Prices Starting at $119 / Night
Learn More
Pendry San Diego
The Pendry San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter

5) Pendry San Diego

Pendry San Diego is a luxury hotel located a little over 3 miles from the San Diego Zoo and offers you a chance to experience all there is while in San Diego. While staying at Pendry in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, you will get a modern feel while still getting that traditional feeling of being in Southern California.

With six different bars and restaurants, Pendry San Diego offers a variety of dining options. You can have a meal by the pool, a quick bite at the bar, or a lavish seafood dinner. Pendry San Diego has something for everyone.

Pendry San Diego also offers a variety of spa treatments to help you relax after a day at the Zoo, or if you prefer, you can use their 24-hour fitness center that looks out onto the pool deck.

Watch Pendry San Diego Video

Things to Know About Pendry San Diego

Neighborhood
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp is full of cafes, great nightlife and pedicabs! Visit PETCO Park, the cruise ship port, Balboa Park, Convention Center or tour the USS Midway.
Hotel Star Rating
5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating5 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Dogs stay free, with a limit of 1 per room and maximum weight of 20 lbs per pet.
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Property Size
317 Rooms
Resort Fee
$40.60
Includes: Pool access, Fitness center access, Business center/computer access, Internet access (may be limited), Newspaper, Phone calls (may be limited) and In-room safe.
Prices Starting at $850 / Night
Learn More
Solamar San Diego
Fire Pits at the Upper East Bar at the Solamar San Diego

6) Solamar San Diego

Solamar San Diego Hotel is located in the trendy East Village next to the Gaslamp Quarter and is only a 2.5-mile trip to the San Diego Zoo.

Solamar San Diego is located in a very popular area of San Diego. On premises there is a trendy Modern American restaurant called Jsix. It features a rotating menu of locally sourced ingredients. It is defiantly worth a try.

The Solamar is also surrounded by an array of different restaurants and bars. Whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat, or a luxurious dinner, you will find it here.

Watch Solamar San Diego Video

Things to Know About Solamar San Diego

Neighborhood
East Village
East Village is a hotspot for attractions! Great for nightlife, the Gaslamp, Comic Con, PETCO Park, Balboa Park & the Convention Center! Walk to local breweries & cafés.
Hotel Star Rating
4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome. Service animals are exempt from fees.
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
235 Rooms
Resort Fee
$28.18
Includes: Fitness/yoga classes, Internet access (may be limited) and Phone calls (may be limited).
Prices Starting at $144 / Night
Learn More
Andaz San Diego, a Concept by Hyatt
Firepit on the Rooftop Lounge at the Andaz San Diego

7) Andaz San Diego, a Concept by Hyatt

Andaz San Diego can be found 3-miles south of the San Diego Zoo. This contemporary hotel is centered in the popular Gaslamp Quarter with a bustling nightlife.

One of the most popular areas of the Andaz is their rooftop. Here you can find the pool and their 24-hour fitness center. The Rooftop by STK offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with a view of Downtown San Diego. It is also a hotspot for an evening cocktail after a day at the zoo!

Watch Andaz San Diego, a Concept by Hyatt Video

Things to Know About Andaz San Diego, a Concept by Hyatt

Neighborhood
East Village
East Village is a hotspot for attractions! Great for nightlife, the Gaslamp, Comic Con, PETCO Park, Balboa Park & the Convention Center! Walk to local breweries & cafés.
Hotel Star Rating
4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating4 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Cats and dogs are welcome, with a limit of 2 per room and maximum weight of 50 lbs per pet. There's no charge for pets.
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
159 Rooms
Prices Starting at $199 / Night
Learn More
The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
Outdoor Pool at the Lafayette Hotel Swim Club and Bungalows

8) The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows

Less than two miles north of the San Diego Zoo, you will find The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows. This boutique hotel is located in University Heights near Balboa Park is popular among celebrities on their visits to San Diego.

The Lafayette offers a wide array of amenities to help make your stay comfortable. One of their most popular offerings is an Olympic sized swimming pool.

Lounge by the pool with a drink from their pool-side bar and take in the sun. Cabana and towels rentals are also available for your convenience, or check out the 24-hour fitness center.

The Lafayette also has on-site dining, Hope 46, which offers signature cocktails and dishes that overlook the pool. If you have a special event you’d like to remember, you can reserve part or all of Hope 46 for your celebration.

Things to Know About The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows

Neighborhood
University Heights
Explore the trendy neighborhood of University Heights. It’s close to Balboa Park and features cafés, breweries, shops, and parks, all within walking distance.
Hotel Star Rating
3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Only Service Animals are Welcome
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
133 Rooms
Prices Starting at $127 / Night
Learn More
Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - San Diego
Entrance at Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - San Diego

9) Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - San Diego

Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - San Diego is located a little over 2 miles south of the San Diego Zoo, near the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego. Located near most of the popular hotspots of San Diego, it is a great place to stay if you are traveling for both business or with your family.

A fitness center is offered on location, as well as an indoor swimming pool. On-site dining is available. Full dining menu is available all day, as well as a trimmed down bar menu.

Things to Know About Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - San Diego

Neighborhood
Core-Columbia
The Core-Columbia area of Downtown San Diego is a beautiful mix of sky rises, restaurants, and hotels, complete with activities like music venues and museums.
Hotel Star Rating
3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Only Service Animals are Welcome
Breakfast
Not Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
264 Rooms
Prices Starting at $152 / Night
Learn More
Gaslamp Plaza Suites
Exterior view, Gaslamp Plaza Suites

10) Gaslamp Plaza Suites

Gaslamp Plaza Suites, less than 3 miles from the San Diego Zoo, is located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego. The hotel is surrounded with a wide array of activities such as theaters, art galleries and shopping.

If you are looking for a fun night out, Gaslamp Plaza is surrounded by over a hundred clubs, bars and restaurants. Or you can stay in and enjoy a drink on the rooftop terrace.

Watch Gaslamp Plaza Suites Video

Things to Know About Gaslamp Plaza Suites

Neighborhood
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp is full of cafes, great nightlife and pedicabs! Visit PETCO Park, the cruise ship port, Balboa Park, Convention Center or tour the USS Midway.
Hotel Star Rating
3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating3 Star Hotel Rating
Pet Policy
Only Service Animals are Welcome
Breakfast
Included
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Property Size
64 Rooms
Prices Starting at $109 / Night
Learn More
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Orangutan at San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Explore the top zoo in America! The San Diego Zoo is located in iconic Balboa Park, and features over 3,500 animal in their habitats. Bundle with other attractions in Balboa Park for top savings - like the Air and Space Museum!
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Local Tips
What attractions are included with a Go City San Diego pass?

Attractions that you can visit with a Go City San Diego pass include:

The San Diego Zoo, Birch Aquarium, SeaWorld, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, Harbor Cruise, USS Midway Museum, the NAT Museum, Whaley House, PETCO Park Tour, iFLY San Diego and many, many more!

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Featured Hotel
The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
Historic
Historic
Luxury
Luxury
Near Bay
Near Bay
5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars
History & luxury mix at US Grant. Located in the Core-Columbia district on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, this distinctive hotel pampers every guest.
Prices Starting at $265
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Tours & Adventures
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
$42 per person
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San Diego Air and Space Museum
San Diego Air and Space Museum
Discounts Available
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