
Places to stay near San Diego Zoo
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Top-rated vacation rentals near San Diego Zoo
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Walk to Balboa Park and Hillcrest from an Immaculate Home
Take a stroll through the park, then unwind with a leisurely dinner under the festoon lights. Classic crown molding, hardwood floors, and pared-back tones of gray and taupe create an air of calm at this elegant haven spread out over 1500 square feet. You will find the space charming & spacious with over 1500 sq. feet. This single level property is the lower level of a historic duplex. Hardwood floors, crown molding, gas fireplace and laundry room. Street parking is usually readily available. This A+ location of Banker's Hill is NOT impacted by air plane noise. Enjoy the entire lower level duplex and use of the back yard with patio set for dining. Please note the upper tenant may also want to use this space so this area could be shared. We would love to greet you but are also fine with allowing you to access with a code on the front door. We live nearby and are happy to make suggestions for dining or things to do. Located near numerous restaurants, and Balboa Park, Hillcrest, the zoo, Downtown, Little Italy, and the Convention Center are all within 10 minutes. Be at the beach in less than 15 minutes. The bus line runs up First Ave for easy access to Downtown and Uptown. Near trolley and train station. We are within 10 minutes to the San Diego International Airport and a quick Uber ride to Downtown, Little Italy. Walk to the heart of Hillcrest, Balboa Park and the Zoo. Be at the beach in less then 15 minutes. Central location near the I-5, I-163 & I-8. Because of the hardwood floors, you will hear the footsteps above. The kitchen is well stocked if your a cook and we have an area where you can set up your laptop. wireless available and 3 smart TV's for your enjoyment. Small market less than 1 block away.
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 370 reviews
Designer Rental w/ FirePit- Petco Park, DT, + Zoo
Welcome to Our 1920s Designer Craftsman Apartment in San Diego’s Best Neighborhood! *Unbeatable Location! Minutes Petco Park, Downtown, Zoo, + Conv Center :) *Washer&Dryer *High end Bedding *Easy Parking *Boutique hotel-like experience Fire pit, grills, and a cocktail/reading den! This stylish apartment is on the edge of the iconic Balboa Park, a short walk from the lively North Park scene, & 5-minute drive to the Gaslamp Quarter and airport. Beaches and Convention Center are only minutes away.
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviews
Vintage Spanish Revival Home - Balboa Park - Alcazar Court
• 1924 Spanish Revival Bungalows - Alcazar Court - Nestled in the heart of the city in historic Hillcrest - with cafes, bars, and shops • Fully equipped 1 bd 1 ba bungalows complement shady olive tree-lined patios - guests can enjoy coffee in the morning - a glass of wine in the afternoon. Enjoy the charm and tranquility of a bygone era and convenience of modern amenities, • Explore nearby Balboa Park, home to 16 museums and performing arts venues, as well as the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 450 reviews
Modern upscale home, 2bd 2bth, Pr Patio, 1 Blk>Zoo
Luxury and relaxation await in this spacious and gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, located in the heart of Hillcrest just 1 block from the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. Our luxurious home is completely remodeled, using all high-end finishes and everything is new! The spacious interior boasts 2 large bedrooms, one with an ensuite bath and the other with access to the beautiful hall bathroom with luxury finishes, both with patio access. Entertainers kitchen and dining area!
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews
Waterhaven - A Pondside Oasis
Please read house rules before booking. Located in the Hillcrest area of San Diego just blocks to Balboa Park is Waterhaven, a non smoking, adults only retreat and the perfect place to enjoy your San Diego stay. 325 square feet, a fully private retreat that includes your own living space, bathroom, and kitchen. The guesthouse has dual paned windows, no shared walls, and the yard is fully protected with a stone wall for privacy and security. Waterhaven is a quiet, peaceful, relaxing experience.
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 579 reviews
Trendy Studio, Natural Light - Heart of Downtown
Large studio with comfortable queen sized Murphy Bed, a love seat, private entrance and private bath. Located in Cortez Hill - walk to the nicest neighborhoods in downtown like Little Italy, Gaslamp, East Village, and the Embarcadero. There is no full kitchen, but there is a small refrigerator, small microwave, and a pot for heating water. This is an ideal space for solo travelers, couples, events at the Convention Center, Padres Games, great eateries, and the best of Downtown San Diego.
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 384 reviews
Carrie’s North Park Casita, in Heart of San Diego
Fully renovated stand-alone guesthouse in North Park, consistently voted one of the coolest neighborhoods in the US. Just a few blocks from all the action at 30th and University, but tucked away in a quiet, historically designated residential neighborhood. Walk to Balboa Park or The World Famous San Diego Zoo. Get to Downtown San Diego, San Diego International Airport, Old Town, Little Italy, Coronado, La Jolla, Sea World, multiple beaches & so much more in under 15 minutes.
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 199 reviews
Pool Oasis in Central Hillcrest by Park/Zoo
The enormous infinite edge pool floats above the jungle floor. Perched on a private canyon, this modern house is conveniently located in the heart of Hillcrest, walking distance to restaurants, bars, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo. Private paradise in walking neighborhood! Multiple private work spaces with treetop views. Cinema room with surround sound! NOTE: Not suitable for young children (heights, noise restrictions, breakables). NO PETS! NO PARTIES! (STRICT!). TOT# 641946.
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 185 reviews
The Cozy Craftsman
Bright • Walkable • Charming 2BR Craftsman retreat in San Diego's University Heights neighborhood, perfectly located between Hillcrest and North Park. Skylights and large windows fill the home with natural light, while the thoughtfully updated interior offers comfort and style. Enjoy a private fenced yard with outdoor seating, and walk to restaurants, cafes, and a grocery store just two blocks away. Perfect for couples, small groups, or business travelers exploring San Diego.
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Walk to Bars, Restaurants 1 BD Hillcrest, Parking
This unique and luxurious house is located in Hillcrest, 1 block from University Avenue, within walking distance to some of San Diego’s finest restaurants, bars, and shopping. This location truly cannot be beat if you want to be close to it all in San Diego. You'll love the private outdoor space, and open concept home with designer finishes! Easy parking for one car. The perfect relaxing retreat in the city center of San Diego!
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews
Hillcrest 2 bed 2 en-suite baths garage zen garden
Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee (complimentary), on the large, breezy front porch, or the calming Zen Garden, with the sounds of the granite fountain. This remodeled two Bed/two ensuite Baths, Hillcrest property, includes a resort-like landscaped garden, gazebo, BBQ area, in a zen-like atmosphere. Hillcrest location, three car garage, and plenty of free street parking.
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 437 reviews
A Charming House. Short walk to Balboa park & Zoo!
Experience a stay in a charming California craftsman historic house (entire house) in Hillcrest a 1/2 block from Balboa Park attractions. Walking distance to the Zoo and local eateries. Centrally located, beaches and citywide. Outdoor porch patio and fully fenced backyard. Driveway parking.Fast WiFi. Family friendly, no parties or events quiet hours at night.
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 298 reviewsPopular amenities for vacation rentals near San Diego Zoo
Condo rentals with wifi

Sleeps 9 | Parking, Bay Views, Rooftop, Priv Patio
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews
Dream Penthouse! The Most Amazing Bath & Views
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 221 reviews
Bright, Spacious Loft in North Park
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 550 reviews
Little Italy King Suite
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviews
Bright and Trendy | Panoramic | Chic | Prime Locat
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews
Cozy home central to beaches & attractions
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews
Hilltop Harbor View- 2 Primary Suites-2 Balconies
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 195 reviews
2 Bedroom Apartment in University Heights.
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviewsFamily-friendly house rentals

Designer Unit w/FirePit-Petco Park, Zoo, Downtown
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews
North Park Nook
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews
Award-Winning North Park 2BR on Balboa Park nr Zoo
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 548 reviews
Balboa park Craftsman home
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 225 reviews
Comfy, cozy, colorful in South Park
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 772 reviews
Entire House with Private Yard
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 147 reviews
North Park Craftsmen House * Great for Families
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews
Central Charm in Hillcrest near Scripps Mercy
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviewsApartment rentals with air conditioning

At Mine | Spacious Suite in the Gaslamp Quarter
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 1916 reviews
North Park Modern Architecture. Close to all of SD
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 312 reviews
Modern Spanish Casita. Sunny & Quiet with Kitchen!
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 196 reviews
Walk Score 99! Modern 1br sleeps 4 with parking!
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews
San Diego Casita
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 188 reviews
Artifact Inn - Historic Deluxe Studio in Downtown
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews
Contemporary Getaway Suite Near the Convention
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 147 reviews
Urban Loft Oasis by Balboa Park
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviewsOther great vacation rentals near San Diego Zoo

Safe Private Sanctuary - TOWER STUDIO/ Northpark
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 1117 reviews
Elegant 2 bedroom + loft in Hillcrest.
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews
MIKE'S PLACE - A PRIVATE COTTAGE
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 841 reviews
Dog friendly in heart of Hillcrest
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 389 reviews
Canyon Views w/ Outdoor Seating & Parking
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 275 reviews
The Golden Hill mosaic "casita"
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 568 reviews
Charming 1 bd Cottage Close to All
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 264 reviews
Beautiful Historic Home and Gardens Near Downtown!
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 300 reviewsDestinations to explore
- SeaWorld San Diego
- Coronado Beach
- Rosarito Beach
- LEGOLAND California
- University of California-San Diego
- Petco Park
- San Diego Convention Center E Ent
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Pacific Beach
- San Diego State University
- Balboa Park
- Tijuana Beach
- Pechanga Resort Casino
- Torrey Pines State Beach
- Mission Beach
- Las Olas Resort & Spa
- Ocean Front Walk
- Oceanside City Beach
- La Misión Beach
- Moonlight State Beach
- Belmont Park
- Sesame Place San Diego
- South Mission Beach, San Diego
- Liberty Station





