Photo: Robert Vasquez (Boo)
Photo: Zechariah Photography
Photo: Edith Simmons
Dallas Zoo
★4.5(23,482 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 4-5 hours for a full experience, or 2-3 hours if focusing on top highlights👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers love the interactive Lacerte Family Children's Zoo with goats to pet and a splash pad, while older kids are captivated by the big cats, elephant encounters, and the adventure of the safari monorail ride.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
The Dallas Zoo is Texas' largest zoo, sprawling across 106 acres with over 2,000 animals from around the world. Kids will be thrilled by up-close giraffe feeding experiences and the exciting monorail ride through the Giants of the Savanna exhibit, where zebras, elephants, and lions roam in expansive habitats that mimic the African plains.
Highlights
- ✓Hand-feeding giraffes at the Giants of the Savanna giraffe feeding station
- ✓Riding the elevated monorail safari through the African savanna exhibit
- ✓Watching elephant demonstrations and keeper talks
- ✓Playing at the Lacerte Family Children's Zoo with a petting area and nature exchange
- ✓Cooling off at the Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari splash pad area
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at 9:00 AM opening time when animals are most active and crowds are lightest,you'll have the best giraffe feeding experience before lines form
- 2.Download the Dallas Zoo app before your visit for an interactive map, animal feeding times, and keeper talks schedule so you don't miss the best shows
- 3.Bring a wagon or be prepared for lots of walking,the 106 acres mean you'll easily cover 2-3 miles, and little legs tire quickly
- 4.Pack your own snacks and refillable water bottles to save money, though the zoo does have several dining options throughout the grounds
- 5.Visit the Giants of the Savanna exhibit early and take the monorail first,it's one of the most popular attractions and lines get long by midday
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) in spring or fall for the most comfortable weather and smallest crowds. Animals are most active during cooler morning hours before 11 AM, and you'll avoid weekend family crowds and summer heat.
What to Know
Admission prices vary by age (children under 2 are free), with parking available for an additional fee. The zoo offers stroller rentals, multiple dining areas, nursing rooms, and is fully accessible with paved pathways throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather. The zoo hosts special events like Boo at the Zoo in October and ZooLights during the holiday season. Summer visits can be extremely hot,plan for early morning visits and bring sun protection.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Keller's Drive-In (1.5 miles away) for classic burgers in a nostalgic setting where kids can watch cars come and go, or visit Lockhart Smokehouse (3 miles) for authentic Texas BBQ with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor seating.
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