Brown fur, white fur, black fur—or sometimes even a mix. A lot of different animals might come to mind, but we’ve got bears on the brain. They span the globe, yet there’s only eight species in the Ursidae family. Interestingly, almost all of them are represented at the San Diego Zoo. You can come face-to-face with many of them on the brand-new Bear Crawl Walking Tour, where you’ll meet some of Earth’s most charismatic bears while sipping on your choice of beer or wine.
Guided Discovery
As the sun sets and the Zoo quiets, your happy hour adventure is just beginning. Check in just past the front entrance near the vibrant flock of flamingos and greet your expert guide. With plenty of options at a convenient bar, choose from rotating beers, red or white wine, or nonalcoholic selections. Then, get your headset and receiver situated so you can hear the knowledgeable educator's fascinating insights clearly any-bear you are throughout the 90-minute journey.
Did you know that Andean bears are the only bears in South America while brown bear species span three continents? Your guide will share more fascinating insights like these and more during the experience.
At the tour start time, your group will set off with drink in hand. This carefully planned route has been designed so you discover as many bears as possible. On your stroll down Center Street, you might encounter sloth bears, grizzly bears, Andean bears, and maybe even sun bears. This journey is always full of surprises so be sure to keep an eye—or ear—out for other fascinating animals and plants along the way as well. Every stop reveals new perspectives on incredible wildlife and their conservation stories. And just like the bears themselves, each evening is delightfully unique.
While you enjoy your second beverage at Panda Ridge, Xin Bao and Yun Chuan might be snacking on their favorite food: bamboo.
After Hours and All Yours
The excitement continues when you get to Hua Mei Plaza. Your next destination transports you to the breathtaking, lush landscapes of Sichuan, Gansu, and Shaanxi provinces in China while the sun dips beneath the horizon. During this exclusive after-hours visit to Denny Sanford Panda Ridge, you’ll have the chance to experience the giant panda pair like never before.
As your guide shares the inside scoop about Xin Bao and Yun Chuan’s care and conservation at the Zoo, take advantage of your exclusive access by asking any questions you have, marveling at the pandas, and admiring the serenity of the expansive Panda Ridge. Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about the beverages. It is happy hour, after all! Another bar awaits at Panda Ridge to quench your thirst after the thrilling trek down the canyon.
As you walk through Lower Center Street, keep an eye out for the arboreal sun bear. Be sure to look carefully—they're masters at blending in.
This experience checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for date nights, birthday celebrations, small group outings, and to surprise your friend who loves all things bears and beer. By the end of the evening, you've gotten your steps in, enjoyed some fresh air, and sipped on two delicious drinks—all while learning how every single one of your visits support wildlife conservation here in San Diego and across the globe. Ready to put your paws on the pathway? Let’s go!
Reserve your spot today for the Bear Crawl Walking Tour and discover more about how allies like you are making a difference for wildlife worldwide through our eight Conservation Hubs.
