Texas is a vast state so you’ll never run out of places and things to see and do, whether you’re a lone tourist or traveling as a couple or with the family.
And speaking of traveling with the family, zoos are some of the ideal places for a family day-out. If you’re going to have a week-long holiday in Texas, be sure to include zoos as part of your itinerary. Most zoos today feature a lot more than just cooped-up animals of different species. Many of them also function as aquariums, botanical gardens, or wildlife centers that allow you to know more about living things than just being spectators.
Check out some of Texas’ best zoos and find out which of them you will include on your Texas tour bucket list.
Dallas Zoo (Dallas)
The Dallas Zoo, located in downtown Dallas, feels like a world away with its lush landscaping featuring plants, vines, waterfalls, and ponds that mimic natural habitats. Established in 1888, it’s Texas’s oldest and largest zoo, covering 106 acres and housing over 2,000 animals from more than 400 species.
Additional Highlights:
- Giants of the Savanna: An exhibit where elephants, giraffes, and zebras cohabit in a space that mirrors their natural environment.
- Monorail Safari: Offers an aerial view of the zoo, providing a unique perspective on the exhibits below.
- Wild Encounters Stage: Get up close with various animals, including reptiles, free-flying birds, and porcupines.
The zoo’s spacious viewing areas ensure excellent animal views, making every visit engaging and memorable.
San Antonio Zoo (San Antonio)
Established in 1914, the San Antonio Zoo spans 56 acres and hosts over 3,500 animals representing 750 species. It’s a fantastic destination for animal lovers and families.
Notable attractions include the Richard Friedrich Aquarium, which features a variety of aquatic life, the Hixon Bird House with an impressive collection of birds from around the world, and the Reptile House, home to a diverse array of reptiles. The zoo also offers interactive experiences and educational programs, making it a fun and enriching visit for all ages.
Additional Highlights:
- Africa Live!: This exhibit brings the African savannah to life with giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.
- Big Cat Valley: Home to majestic lions and tigers, and you can view them close-up!
- Tiny Tot Nature Spot: An interactive play area designed for young children to explore nature.
- Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot: An award-winning area perfect for kids to get hands-on with nature.
The zoo is also involved in conservation efforts, including breeding programs for endangered species and habitat restoration projects. With its wide variety of exhibits and dedication to education and conservation, the San Antonio Zoo is a must-visit attraction in Texas.
Fort Worth Zoo (Fort Worth)
The Fort Worth Zoo is ranked as the number one zoo in the country and is a must-visit. Established in 1909, it’s also the second oldest zoo in Texas. What started with just a few animals now boasts a vast collection of 7,000 animals representing 542 species.
Additional Highlights:
- Texas Wild! Exhibit: An immersive experience showcasing the state’s diverse wildlife and habitats.
- Elephant Springs: A spacious area for elephants to roam and bathe.
- Flamingo Bay, African Savanna, and Parrot Paradise: Home to a variety of vibrant species.
- Raptor Canyon: Displays different birds of prey.
- Australian Outback/Great Barrier Reef: Features unique species from down under.
The zoo is also dedicated to conservation, working with local and national organizations to protect endangered species like the Attwater’s prairie chicken. With its diverse exhibits and focus on conservation, the Fort Worth Zoo offers an enriching and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
El Paso Zoo (El Paso)
Covering 35 acres, the El Paso Zoo is home to over 220 species, including various mammals, reptiles, and birds. The zoo is divided into distinct regions, with the African and American exhibits as key highlights.
Additional Highlights:
- Africa Exhibit: This exhibit features animals like lions, zebras, and meerkats in a habitat that resembles the African savannah.
- Americas Exhibit: Showcases species from North, Central, and South America, including jaguars, macaws, and the Andean bear.
- Chimpanzee Exhibit: Provides an interactive and engaging environment for these intelligent primates.
- Hunt Family Desert Spring: A splash pad area perfect for cooling off on hot days.
The El Paso Zoo also emphasizes conservation and education, with programs designed to raise awareness about wildlife preservation and the natural world. With its engaging exhibits and family-friendly atmosphere, the El Paso Zoo is a wonderful destination for a day of exploration and learning.
Abilene Zoo (Abilene)
The Abilene Zoo, at 16 acres, is cozy but delightful. It has over 1,000 animals, including giraffes. One of the highlights is the giraffe-feeding platform, where you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants—definitely a hit with the kids!
Additional Highlights:
- Caribbean Cove: This vibrant area has colorful marine life and playful sea creatures, making you feel like you’re on a tropical adventure.
- Wetlands Boardwalk: A scenic stroll where you can see native Texas species in their natural habitat.
- Elm Creek Backyard: An interactive space for kids to learn about local wildlife through hands-on experiences.
The zoo also offers fun educational programs and is committed to conservation efforts. Whether you’re feeding giraffes or exploring the diverse exhibits, the Abilene Zoo promises a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
Cameron Park Zoo (Waco)
Cameron Park Zoo, founded in 1993, spans 52 acres within Cameron Park near the Brazos River. Known for its lush vegetation, picturesque lakes, ponds, and waterfalls, it provides a thriving environment for its animals.
Additional Highlights:
- Brazos River Country Exhibit: An award-winning showcase of Texas wildlife from different regions.
- 50,000-Gallon Saltwater Reef Aquarium: Home to a variety of marine species.
- Large Swampland Habitat: Features alligators and other wetland creatures.
- Freshwater Aquarium: Houses unique species like the paddlefish.
- Night Building: Hosts nocturnal animals like owls, bats, raccoons, and opossums.
- Splash Pad: A popular water play area for kids.
With 1,731 animals representing over 300 species, the Cameron Park Zoo offers impressive exhibits and a memorable experience for all visitors.
Austin Zoo (Austin)
The Austin Zoo started in 1990 as a small goat ranch. Now, it’s a unique non-profit rescue zoo and animal sanctuary that provides a safe haven for over 300 animals from more than 100 species, including domesticated animals, African lions, Bengal tigers, monkeys, and cougars.
Additional Highlights:
- Mission as a Rescue Zoo: Focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating animals from other zoos or facilities.
- Educational Programs: Offers programs to educate visitors about animal welfare and conservation.
- Events: Hosts various events throughout the year, like the annual Great Pumpkin Hunt.
With its mission of rescue and rehabilitation, Austin Zoo offers a heartwarming and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Caldwell Zoo (Tyler)
Spanning 85 acres in Tyler, the Caldwell Zoo is a cherished destination for East Texas residents. Opened in 1953 as a children’s development center, it now offers a fun and educational wildlife experience for the whole family.
Additional Highlights:
- African Overlook: Observe giraffes, lions, and other African wildlife in a naturalistic setting.
- Conservation Efforts: The zoo is committed to breeding programs for endangered species.
- Educational Programs: Offers summer camps and monthly classes for kids.
Home to over 2,000 animals, including giraffes, zebras, black bears, flamingos, and more, Caldwell Zoo provides a wonderful day out for learning and adventure.
Houston Zoo (Houston)
The Houston Zoo, located in Hermann Park, opened in 1922. It spans 55 acres and houses over 6,000 animals representing 900 species and attracts two million visitors annually.
Additional Highlights:
- Pantanal Exhibit: The first of its kind in the country, showcasing South American wildlife.
- Upcoming Galapagos Islands Exhibit: A $70-million project set to open in 2022 for the zoo’s centennial.
- McNair Asian Elephant Habitat: Features spacious enclosures for the zoo’s elephants.
- Jaguar Exhibit: Recently expanded for an even better viewing experience.
The zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation, partnering with programs worldwide to protect various species.
Gladys Porter Zoo (Brownsville)
The Gladys Porter Zoo spans 31 acres and showcases over 1,600 animals from 377 species, including many rare and endangered ones. It is located in Brownsville and serves as a botanical garden with over 225 plant species. It opened in 1971.
Additional Highlights:
- Breeding Programs: Successful efforts for endangered species like the Arabian oryx and the Western lowland gorilla.
- Petting Area: Allows guests to safely interact with animals.
- Herpetarium: The zoo’s first exhibit addition featuring reptiles.
- Walk-In Aviaries: Two aviaries where visitors can observe birds up close.
- Aquatic Wing: A recent addition with various aquatic species.
The zoo also offers educational outreach programs, enhancing its role in conservation and education.
Conclusion
Texas boasts an impressive array of zoos, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to learn about wildlife. Whether you want to observe exotic animals or participate in education, these destinations provide unforgettable experiences for families and animal lovers. So, plan your visit and explore Texas zoos’ diverse and fascinating world!
