New Summer Hours at San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Spark Conversation and Change
This summer, visitors to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are met with a surprising change: both beloved wildlife attractions have shortened their evening hours, sparking lively debate among locals, members, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. While these changes shift the daily rhythm for guests and staff, they also reflect the challenges facing zoos nationwide during hotter and more unpredictable summers.
This season, the Safari Park now opens an hour earlier at 8 a.m. but closes at 4 p.m.—briefer than in previous years—while the Zoo maintains its early start but will shut its gates at 8 p.m., an hour sooner than last summer. Though the iconic Nighttime Zoo festivities will continue, these adjustments mark a significant shift in how and when visitors can experience the parks’ unique offerings.
According to zoo officials, the decision to change hours was not made lightly. A spokesperson cited rising temperatures and shifting visitation trends as driving factors. The region has faced record-breaking heat in recent years, with Escondido, near the Safari Park, often surpassing 100 degrees, even in June. By starting earlier, the Zoo Alliance hopes guests can enjoy the animals during cooler, more comfortable hours.
The visitor response has been fast and passionate, with reactions pouring in across social media and fan communities. Longtime passholder Lori Garcia expressed disappointment, noting, "The hours being cut, that’s kind of a bummer." Cynthia Bell McGillins, an Escondido resident, even wrote to zoo officials, arguing the reduction effectively excludes working families: “For those of us who work traditional business hours, it will now be virtually impossible to visit the park on weekdays.” She lamented the loss of "the magical golden hour when animals are often most active."
Behind the scenes, these operational shifts also coincide with a turbulent time for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance: The organization is under interim leadership, facing a management transition and contentious contract negotiations with its labor union. More than 2,100 staff signatures have been gathered on a petition demanding fair wages. As acting CEO Shawn Dixon noted in a statement, the organization remains committed to its workforce during this period of change, aiming for a fair agreement and sustainable future.
Ultimately, the new hours highlight the balancing act between animal care, visitor comfort, business realities, and community needs. What does the future hold for these famed San Diego habitats? Will cooler mornings become the new norm for wildlife exploration, or will public feedback sway future changes?
We invite you to share your thoughts below: How do these changes impact your zoo experience? Do you prefer early mornings or balmy summer evenings with the animals? Join the conversation and let your voice be heard.
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