San Diego Wild Animal Park in Escondido, CA 92027

Part of the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Wild Animal Park pioneered the "safari" zoo concept in the early 1970s. Most of the big animals at the Park - the lions, elephants, zebras, and rhinos - are free to roam in the savanna-like environs of the San Pasqual Valley, the closest thing on this continent to their natural habitat.

The park is a huge 1,800 acres and has a collection of over 3,000 animals from 374 species. It's a unique visiting experience, very different from visiting a zoo. The best way to experience the park is through a combination of tram riding and walking.

It's best to set aside an entire day to get the most out of the Park. To see the big animals, take the tram and save your energy for the walk to Condor Ridge or, at the other end of the park, to see the cheetahs. Each are accessible only by foot.

In the middle of the Park you'll find animal shows, which take place throughout the day - and give you and yours a chance to sit. Of course, those endearing elephants are fun to watch but the real surprise here is the fabulous bird show.

Right near the bird show amphitheater is a lovely playground with picnic benches, a restroom and snack shack nearby, a waterplay area for small children, and - a valued commodity in the hot summer months - shade. Plan to spend time here for a nice midday break.

The heart of the Park is zoo-like, with enclosures for small animals (including birds, reptiles, and monkeys); lagoons for waterfowl and marsh animals; amazing botanical gardens; and a large gorilla enclosure. Highlights here are the petting zoo and the Hidden Jungle, flush with tropical birds, flowers, and butterflies.

Our favorite, though is Lorikeet Landing, where a $3 purchase of nectar buys a real thrill for your child - the chance one of these beautiful tropical-colored bird will land on an arm and drink from the cup.

Camping: The Park offers some unique but pricey opportunities to extend the safari experience, such as Roar and Snore. Here, families can spend the night camping under the stars in the Park. Camp-outs take place Friday, Saturday, and some Sundays, from mid-April through October. Reservations may be made by calling 1.800.934.CAMP.

Photo Caravan Tours: Safari trucks let you get up close to the animals in the Africa and Asia enclosures to take pictures (tours run seven days a week, year-round, weather permitting). Prices for the caravans range from $85 to $105 per person ($70 to $94 for Zoo members), depending on the length of the tour. Call 760.738.5049 or 1.800.934.2267 for details.

Themed Tours: The Park offers a variety of seasonal themed tours, depending on when you visit. Examples are "It Began With A Roar," "Walk On The Wild Side," "Passport to Asia," or "Breakfast with the Big Guys." Tours are designed for ages 12 and up. Fees vary, but most are $12-15 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the Park's main number. Check the Park's website for upcoming themed tours.

Families can also view the park on a Rolling Safari Tour. The two-hour program costs $75 and includes training on and use of a Segway. Participants must be at least 13 years old and weigh between 100 and 250 pounds.

Lunch: You can buy your lunch at a number of places, ranging from hot dog carts to sit-down restaurants. The food is not cheap. If you want to bring lunch, you can store it in lockers near the Park's entrance. There are many beautiful spots to picnic. One of our favorites is at the tables near the lagoon. But if your kids have the stamina to make it up Condor Ridge, you'll find it far less peopled and be rewarded with stunning views of the entire sanctuary.

Savings: This place is expensive, and there's no avoiding it. But you can save a little bit of money if you're planning to visit the Zoo and the Park within the same week. The Two-Park Ticket is good for five days from purchase. Adult $59, child $39.