Zoological sights in San Diego
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A
Seaworld
Mission Bay's four-star attraction is SeaWorld. It's easy to spend a day here, shuttling among shows, rides and exhibits. The biggest draws are live animal shows, particularly Believe, featuring Shamu, the world's most famous killer whale, and his killer whale amigos leaping, diving and gliding. Some may find the presentation a little, well, awww, but the animals induce awe. Dolphin shows are also popular. Avoid marked 'soak zones' near the tanks or you will get wet. There are also zoolike animal exhibits and a few amusement-park-style rides, such as the Journey to Atlantis flume. Lines can be long in summer and around holidays. Parking is $12.
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B
Birch Aquarium
Birch Aquarium, off N Torrey Pines Rd, isn't as blatantly razzle-dazzle - or immense - as those other aquariums you'll find in Monterey or Long Beach, but this top-notch educational and research institution has brilliant displays on marine life. The staff has the time and the inclination to answer any underwatery question you can throw at them. Check out the touch tidepool overlooking the ocean, and don't leave without glimpsing the diminutive weedy sea dragons, in the Art of Deception hall.
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C
Zoo
If it slithers, crawls, stomps, swims, leaps or flies, chances are you'll find it in this world-famous zoo in northern Balboa Park. It's home to 3000-plus animals representing 800-plus species in a beautifully landscaped setting, including the new 7.5-acre Elephant Odyssey. Arrive early, when the animals are most active. Attractions include animal shows and an aerial tram.
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D
Open-Range Zoo
Take a walk on the 'wild' side at this 1800-acre open-range zoo. Giraffes graze, lions lounge and rhinos romp more or less freely on the valley floor. For that instant safari feel, board the Journey to Africa tram ride, which tours you around the second- largest continent in under half an hour. Combination tickets with the San Diego Zoo are $60/43.
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