Houston Zoo: A Wild Adventure in the Heart of the City
Explore wildlife, conservation, and family fun in one of Houston’s most loved attractions.
Looking for a family-friendly outing in Houston that’s educational, exciting, and unforgettable? The Houston Zoo offers all that and more. Located within the beautiful surroundings of Hermann Park, the zoo is one of the city’s most visited attractions—and a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re planning a weekend with the kids or searching for things to do in Houston, here’s why the Houston Zoo deserves a spot on your must-see list.
What Makes the Houston Zoo Special?
The Houston Zoo is more than just a place to see animals—it’s a leader in conservation, education, and immersive animal encounters. With over 6,000 animals from more than 900 species, the zoo provides a rare opportunity to experience wildlife from around the world in thoughtfully designed, naturalistic habitats.
Top Exhibits You Won’t Want to Miss
Gorillas in the African Forest
Walk through a forest pathway and get up close with silverback gorillas, chimpanzees, and red river hogs in one of the zoo’s most innovative and naturalistic exhibits.
McNair Asian Elephant Habitat
Watch elephants roam, bathe, and snack in a spacious environment designed to replicate their native landscape. Daily feedings and training demos are both entertaining and educational.
Kipp Aquarium
A peaceful indoor space with over 200 species of aquatic life—from colorful reef fish to mesmerizing jellyfish.
Texas Wetlands
This lush exhibit showcases native species, including bald eagles, whooping cranes, and alligators, while celebrating local conservation efforts. It’s a beautiful reflection of the ecosystems that surround Houston.
South America’s Pantanal (Newest Addition)
Explore the largest wetland exhibit in the U.S., home to jaguars, giant river otters, tapirs, and anacondas. This immersive exhibit has quickly become a fan favorite.
Family Fun for All Ages
The Houston Zoo is designed with families in mind. In addition to animal habitats, kids will love:
The John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo
A petting zoo with goats and other domestic animals
Wildlife Carousel and interactive splash pad (seasonal)
Educational programs and zookeeper chats throughout the day
It’s the perfect place for curious young minds—and a go-to for birthday parties, field trips, and family traditions.
Conservation in Action
The Houston Zoo isn’t just about entertainment—it’s deeply involved in wildlife conservation projects both locally and globally. Every ticket supports programs that protect endangered animals, including sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico, elephants in Asia, and amphibians in Central America.
Visitors leave not just with photos, but with a deeper understanding of the role they can play in protecting the natural world.
Admission, Tickets, and Free Days
General Admission: Prices vary by day and season. Children under 2 are free.
Memberships offer unlimited visits, discounts, and early access to events.
Free Admission Days: The zoo offers free entry on select first Tuesdays each month (advance reservations required).
Check current pricing and events at www.houstonzoo.org
🅿️ Where to Park at the Houston Zoo
Located in Hermann Park, the zoo has several nearby parking options:
Main Zoo Parking Lot: 6200 Hermann Park Drive (fills quickly on weekends)
Free street parking: Available along Hermann Park Dr. and nearby streets
Miller Outdoor Theatre Lots: Additional free parking nearby
Public Transit: Take METRORail Red Line to Hermann Park/Rice University Station—just a short walk away
Plan a Full Day in the Museum District
Since it’s located near some of Houston’s top attractions, you can easily pair a zoo visit with other favorites like:
The Museum of Natural Science
The Miller Outdoor Theatre
A stroll around McGovern Lake or the Japanese Garden
The Houston Zoo Is More Than a Day Trip
For many Houstonians, a trip to the zoo is a rite of passage in growing up. It’s where kids develop a love of animals, where families make memories, and where every visit feels a little different.
Whether you’re watching elephants play, feeding giraffes, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, the Houston Zoo invites you to connect with nature—and with each other.
Come see why it’s one of the top things to do in Houston year-round.
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