Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center offers families an unforgettable safari-style adventure through 1,800 acres of Texas Hill Country, where kids can hand-feed giraffes, zebras, and other exotic animals right from your car window. This acclaimed wildlife conservation center provides an interactive drive-through experience that combines education with excitement, making it one of the most unique wildlife encounters in Texas.

• ✓Hand-feeding giraffes, ostriches, emus, and other exotic animals from your vehicle
• ✓Children's Animal Center with petting zoo and interactive experiences
• ✓Over 1,100 animals representing 50+ species, including many endangered animals
• ✓Scenic overlooks with stunning Texas Hill Country views
• ✓Educational guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences available

1. 1.Purchase animal feed bags at the entrance,kids will go through them quickly as many animals approach your vehicle, so consider buying extra
2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings when crowds are lighter and animals are most active and hungry
3. 3.Keep windows rolled down and bring hand wipes, as feeding gets messy but is the highlight of the experience
4. 4.Take the scenic route (allows 1.5-2.5 hours) rather than rushing through to maximize animal encounters
5. 5.Bring your own lunch to enjoy at the picnic areas overlooking the preserve, or eat at the on-site Overlook Café

Cooler months (October through April) are ideal as animals are more active and approach vehicles more frequently. Visit early morning right when gates open (8:30 AM) on weekdays for the best animal interactions and smallest crowds.

Admission is charged per person (children 3-11 discounted, under 3 free) with additional costs for animal feed bags. The drive-through route is approximately 9.5 miles on paved and gravel roads; convertibles and motorcycles are not permitted.

Open year-round with consistent hours. Spring brings baby animals which delights kids. Summer can be very hot with less active animals. Fall and winter offer the best wildlife viewing. Check website for special seasonal events like sunset tours.

Stop at Hammond's BBQ in Glen Rose (10 minutes away) for family-friendly Texas barbecue, or visit Pressed Cafe & Market for sandwiches and kid favorites in a casual atmosphere.