Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo consistently ranks among America's top zoos, featuring over 7,000 animals across beautifully designed habitats that bring you face-to-face with wildlife from around the world. With interactive feeding experiences, a popular splash pad for hot Texas days, and engaging educational programs, this expansive 64-acre zoo offers something special for every age group while providing plenty of shaded areas and rest spots for parents.

• ✓Museum of Living Art (MOLA) with incredible reptile and amphibian displays in a climate-controlled building
• ✓Texas Wild! exhibit showcasing native Texas animals and ecosystems
• ✓African Savanna with giraffes, elephants, and rhinos in expansive naturalistic habitats
• ✓Splash pad and playground area for cooling off and burning energy
• ✓Interactive feeding experiences including giraffe feeding (additional fee) and stingray cove

1. 1.Arrive right at opening (10 AM) when animals are most active during feeding time and crowds are lightest,you'll have prime viewing spots at popular exhibits like the elephants and penguins
2. 2.Park in the main lot off Colonial Parkway and rent a wagon or bring a stroller even for older kids,the zoo is massive and little legs tire quickly
3. 3.Download the zoo map app before visiting to plan your route and catch scheduled keeper talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day
4. 4.Bring swimsuits and towels for the splash pad area during warm months,it's a lifesaver for cooling down cranky kids midday
5. 5.Pack snacks and refillable water bottles to save money, though the zoo café offers decent kid-friendly options if needed

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) during spring or fall for the most comfortable weather and smallest crowds. Animals are most active in cooler morning hours before 11 AM, and weekends can get packed, especially during summer.

General admission is around $18-22 for adults and $15-18 for children ages 3-12 (under 3 free), with parking costing $12-15. The zoo is stroller and wheelchair accessible throughout, and there are nursing stations, family restrooms, and multiple food venues ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals.

Open year-round with extended weekend hours. Summer can be extremely hot (bring hats and sunscreen), while spring and fall offer ideal weather. The zoo hosts special events like Boo at the Zoo in October and holiday light displays in winter. Some outdoor exhibits may have limited viewing during extreme weather.

Head to nearby Montgomery Street Café (10 minutes away) for casual American fare with a great kids menu, or try Dutch's Hamburgers, a local Fort Worth institution with old-fashioned burgers and milkshakes that kids love.