If you’re planning a family day out in Texas, visiting a zoo is one of the best ways to enjoy nature, learn about wildlife, and create lasting memories. Texas is home to some of the country’s most impressive zoos, offering everything from exotic animals to conservation programs and family-friendly attractions. In this guide, I’ve put together the 15 best zoos in Texas for 2025 that you should definitely visit. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or exploring solo, these zoos promise fun, education, and adventure.
1. Fort Worth Zoo – Fort Worth, TX
Widely regarded as one of the top zoos in the USA, the Fort Worth Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. It’s home to more than 7,000 animals and is known for its award-winning habitats. Families especially love the “Texas Wild!” exhibit, which highlights native species, and the Museum of Living Art (MOLA), featuring reptiles and amphibians.
Ranked among the top zoos in the country.
Home to gorillas, rhinos, elephants, and rare reptiles.
Great kid-friendly attractions like splash areas and a carousel.
- Visit here: Fort Worth Zoo Official Website
2. Dallas Zoo – Dallas, TX
The Dallas Zoo is the largest zoo in Texas, covering 106 acres with over 2,000 animals. One of its biggest highlights is the Giants of the Savanna habitat, where giraffes, elephants, and zebras roam together in a massive African safari setting. Families can also enjoy interactive experiences like feeding giraffes or riding the monorail.
Immersive African safari experience.
Monorail rides that give you a bird’s-eye view of animals.
Strong focus on wildlife conservation and education.
- Visit here: Dallas Zoo Official Website
3. Houston Zoo – Houston, TX
Located in Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo welcomes over 2 million visitors annually and features 6,000+ animals across 55 acres. It’s especially known for its Texas Wetlands exhibit, where visitors can see bald eagles, whooping cranes, and alligators up close. Kids will love the Children’s Zoo, while adults can enjoy learning about the zoo’s global wildlife conservation projects.
Great mix of local and exotic animals.
Family-friendly rides and play zones.
Strong commitment to animal conservation worldwide.
- Visit here: Houston Zoo Official Website
4. San Antonio Zoo – San Antonio, TX
The San Antonio Zoo is another Texas favorite, housing over 750 species. One of its unique highlights is the Krayola Adventure Safari, a colorful family experience where kids can learn while exploring interactive exhibits. The zoo is also home to rare animals like okapis and komodo dragons. Plus, it’s conveniently located near the famous San Antonio River Walk—making it easy to plan a full day out.
Why Visit:
Rare animals and unique exhibits.
Strong focus on family-friendly experiences.
Close to other San Antonio attractions.
- Visit here: San Antonio Zoo Official Website
5. Cameron Park Zoo – Waco, TX
Nestled along the Brazos River, the Cameron Park Zoo is smaller compared to other Texas zoos but offers a beautiful natural setting. With more than 1,700 animals, it’s known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and immersive exhibits. Highlights include the Asian Forest and African Savanna, where you can see orangutans, elephants, and giraffes.
Relaxing, natural environment.
Smaller size makes it easier to explore with young kids.
Great stop if you’re traveling between Dallas and Austin.
Visit here: Cameron Park Zoo Official Website
6. Gladys Porter Zoo – Brownsville, TX
Located near the Texas-Mexico border, the Gladys Porter Zoo is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers. This 31-acre zoo is home to more than 1,600 animals and is especially famous for its conservation work with endangered species. Visitors can explore lush tropical areas featuring gorillas, orangutans, and even rare rhinos.
Known for its endangered species breeding programs.
Features lush tropical landscapes and open-air habitats.
A great choice if you’re exploring South Texas.
- Visit here: Gladys Porter Zoo Official Website
7. Ellen Trout Zoo – Lufkin, TX
For a smaller yet charming zoo experience, the Ellen Trout Zoo in Lufkin is a fantastic family stop. It’s home to over 700 animals and includes exhibits like the African Savannah and Hippo Habitat. A unique feature is the Ellen Trout Park and Lake, where families can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and paddle boating after exploring the zoo.
Affordable and family-friendly.
Scenic park and lake nearby.
Perfect for a relaxed day with kids.
8. Abilene Zoo – Abilene, TX
The Abilene Zoo may be smaller than Houston or Dallas, but it’s loved for its hands-on experiences. Visitors can feed giraffes, explore the Caribbean Cove with stingrays, and walk through the Reptile House. With over 1,000 animals, the zoo is especially popular for families who want an interactive and educational experience.
Affordable admission and short walking distance.
Hands-on experiences like feeding giraffes and stingrays.
Perfect half-day attraction for families.
- Visit here: Abilene Zoo Official Website
9. Austin Zoo – Austin, TX
The Austin Zoo is different from traditional zoos—it’s a rescue zoo that houses over 300 animals, many of which were saved from difficult circumstances. Visitors can see lions, tigers, monkeys, and a variety of reptiles in a safe, caring environment. The zoo also has a fun train ride that kids especially enjoy.
Focuses on animal rescue and rehabilitation.
Cozy, intimate setting compared to large city zoos.
Great educational opportunities for kids and adults.
- Visit here: Austin Zoo Official Website
10. Texas State Aquarium – Corpus Christi, TX
While not a traditional zoo, the Texas State Aquarium deserves a spot on this list for its incredible marine life exhibits. Families can experience close encounters with sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. The aquarium is also dedicated to wildlife rescue and ocean conservation, making it an educational and exciting attraction on the Texas coast.
Marine animals including sharks, dolphins, and stingrays.
Engaging shows and interactive exhibits.
A must-visit for anyone vacationing in South Texas.
- Visit here: Texas State Aquarium Official Website
11. Caldwell Zoo – Tyler, TX
The Caldwell Zoo is a favorite in East Texas, featuring more than 3,000 animals across 85 acres. The African Savanna exhibit is especially popular, where you can see giraffes, lions, and elephants roaming in realistic habitats. Kids love the petting zoo and bird feeding areas.
Large, scenic zoo with diverse exhibits.
Hands-on attractions for children.
Convenient stop if you’re traveling through East Texas.
- Visit here: Caldwell Zoo Official Website
12. Exotic Resort Zoo – Johnson City, TX
For something different, head to the Exotic Resort Zoo, a 137-acre drive-thru safari experience. You can see over 700 animals from 45 species, including camels, zebras, ostriches, and kangaroos. Families can either drive their own vehicle or join a guided safari tour.
Unique safari-style experience.
Opportunity to feed exotic animals up close.
Great Hill Country destination near Austin and Fredericksburg.
- Visit here: Exotic Resort Zoo Official Website
13. Franklin Drive Thru Safari – Franklin, TX
Another must-visit safari-style zoo is the Franklin Drive Thru Safari, where you can experience wildlife in a more natural setting. Spread over 100 acres, it allows visitors to feed animals like giraffes, bison, and zebras directly from their vehicles. There’s also a petting zoo, baby animal room, and even camel rides.
Drive-thru safari adventure.
Unique activities like camel rides and baby animal encounters.
Family-friendly and interactive.
- Visit here: Franklin Drive Thru Safari Official Website
14. Bayou Wildlife Zoo – Alvin, TX
Located near Houston, the Bayou Wildlife Zoo is a hidden gem with over 500 animals from around the world. Visitors take a guided tram ride through open fields where animals roam freely. The zoo also has an alligator pond, a petting zoo, and pony rides for children.
Guided safari tram rides.
Close to Houston, making it a convenient family day trip.
Smaller crowds compared to the big city zoos.
- Visit here: Bayou Wildlife Zoo Official Website
15. Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary – Tyler, TX
If you love big cats, the Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary is a must-see. This nonprofit sanctuary rescues and provides safe homes for tigers, lions, leopards, and other endangered big cats. It’s not a traditional zoo but an animal rescue center focused on conservation and education.
Home to rescued big cats.
Focus on animal welfare and education.
Great for families who want a meaningful, educational experience.
- Visit here: Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary Official Website
Final Thoughts
Texas isn’t just big in size—it’s also big on wildlife adventures. From world-class zoos like the Fort Worth Zoo, Dallas Zoo, and Houston Zoo to unique experiences such as the Exotic Resort Zoo safari or the Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary, there’s something for every type of traveler.
If you’re planning a family trip, these zoos offer more than just animal encounters—they provide a chance to learn about conservation, support rescue programs, and spend quality time outdoors. Whether you want an immersive safari, a classic zoo day, or a meaningful sanctuary visit, Texas has it all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best zoo in Texas?
Fort Worth Zoo is often ranked the best for its size, diversity, and exhibits.
Q: Which Texas zoo is the largest?
The Dallas Zoo is the largest, covering 106 acres with over 2,000 animals.
Q: Are Texas zoos open year-round?
Yes, most major zoos are open year-round, though hours may change seasonally.
Q: Which zoo is best for young kids?
Houston Zoo and San Antonio Zoo are great for kids thanks to play areas and interactive exhibits.
Q: Are there safari-style zoos in Texas?
Yes! Exotic Resort Zoo and Franklin Drive Thru Safari offer drive-thru wildlife adventures.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
