The San Antonio Zoo ranks among the city’s most popular family attractions. Highlights of the zoo include the world’s largest collection of birds, as well as non-animal exhibits, such as the Zootennial Carousel and San Antonio Zoo Eagle, a train that takes you from the zoo to other attractions in Brackenridge Park.
San Antonio Zoo tours range from after-hours VIP experiences to “Expedition Adventures.” You can enter with a basic admission ticket—or a “Fun Day” ticket with admission, a carousel ride, and a range of enhanced animal experiences—but will have to book tours separately.
Skip the line at the ticket kiosk by booking your admission online ahead of time.
The zoo is accessible to both strollers and wheelchairs, and both are available to rent.
Outside food and drink are not permitted inside the zoo.
See nature documentaries, children’s movies, and more at the 4D theater with enhanced sensory effects.
The zoo is open daily throughout the year, but the best times to visit are in spring and fall, when temperatures are mild. If you visit on summer weekends and public holidays, expect the grounds to be busy with local and visiting families.
The San Antonio Zoo is in the Brackenridge Park area of the city. The best way to arrive is by car, and parking is plentiful and free. The zoo hosts several popular festivals throughout the year, including Zoo Boo! at Halloween, Zoo Lights in late November and December, and Zoorassic Park in summer.
The San Antonio Zoo is known for its breeding programs for endangered and threatened species. Indeed, it was the first zoo to successfully reproduce the rare white rhinoceros in North America. The zoo emphasizes conservation and employs high standards of plant and animal care. It was one of the first in the United States to have cageless habitats.