ZooTexas, US

Amarillo Zoo

The Amarillo Zoo offers an intimate journey into the animal kingdom, right in the Texas Panhandle.

About

The Amarillo Zoo offers an intimate journey into the animal kingdom, right in the Texas Panhandle. Located within the scenic Thompson Park, this charming zoo provides a welcoming and educational experience for visitors of all ages, fostering a connection with wildlife from around the globe. It's a place where imaginations run wild, designed for discovery and creating lasting memories. Spanning 15 acres, the zoo is home to over 120 animals representing more than 70 species. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, encountering majestic African Lions and powerful Bengal Tigers, alongside North American natives like the American Black Bear and Bobcat. Exotic residents such as playful Meerkats, adorable Red Pandas, and the recently welcomed Linnaeus's Two-toed Sloth named Roux captivate guests with their unique behaviors. Beyond its fascinating residents, the Amarillo Zoo boasts specialized exhibits like a Reptile House, an Aviary, and a dedicated Texas Native Wildlife exhibit showcasing species like prairie dogs, gray foxes, and roadrunners. The interactive Petting Zoo is a favorite among children, offering opportunities to get up close with friendly domestic animals like goats and sheep. The zoo is committed to conservation and education, providing engaging programs and events that inspire environmental stewardship. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The Amarillo Zoo boasts a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It was first established in 1914 when a local businessman donated a collection of animals to the city. Later, the zoo as it is known today was officially founded in 1955, originally known as the "Children's Story Land Zoo" on a smaller 2.5-acre site within Thompson Park. Over the decades, it has grown and expanded, now covering 15 acres and housing a wide variety of species. In 1963, a community campaign even brought an elephant named ChanTen to the zoo, a notable chapter in its past. The Amarillo Zoo recently transitioned from city-owned to operating under non-profit leadership, with ongoing efforts to upgrade exhibits and grounds with community support.

What to do here

Observe diverse animal behaviors, interact with friendly farm animals at the petting zoo, and learn about conservation through educational programs. Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo's gardens, or catch seasonal events.

Seasonal info

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for walking and active animals. Summer afternoons can be very hot, so plan for early visits. The zoo hosts special annual events like "Boo at the Zoo" around Halloween, featuring trick-or-treating and animal enrichment activities, and an Easter "Egg-Citement" event. Animals may be off exhibit during inclement weather or for routine maintenance.

Accessibility

The Amarillo Zoo offers wheelchairs for rent free of charge (with a photo ID or credit card) on a first-come, first-served basis, to be returned by 4:30 p.m. The grounds are generally designed for ease of navigation, and special events like "Boo at the Zoo" are wheelchair accessible.

Don't miss

Don't miss the African Lions and Bengal Tigers, the engaging antics of the Meerkats, and the recently introduced Linnaeus's Two-toed Sloth, Roux.

The Reptile House, Aviary, and the new Santa Isabel Dart Frogs exhibit are also captivating.

For families, the Petting Zoo and the Texas Native Wildlife exhibit are must-sees.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

African Lion

Tiger

Black Bear

Red Panda

Meerkat

Camel

Linnaeus's Two Toed Sloth

Jaguar

Bobcat

African Spurred Tortoise

Frog

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Animals are often most active in the cooler morning hours, especially during warmer seasons.

Check the weather

Texas weather can be unpredictable. Check forecasts before your visit, as animals may be off exhibit during severe weather.

Utilize Thompson Park

The zoo is located within Thompson Park, which offers shaded picnic areas and a playground, perfect for extending your day trip.

Don't feed the animals

For their safety and your own, please do not feed the zoo animals.

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a fair amount of walking to explore all the exhibits across the 15-acre facility.

Free Parking

The zoo offers free parking, making your arrival convenient.

Frequently asked questions

: The Amarillo Zoo is generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last ticket sold at 4:30 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Day, and sometimes on Christmas Eve and July 4th after certain hours. Visitors should check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding holiday hours or closures due to inclement weather.
: Yes, the Amarillo Zoo strives to be accessible. Wheelchairs are available for rent at no charge, requiring a photo ID or credit card, and must be returned by 4:30 p.m. The zoo's website is also adapted to WCAG 2.1 guidelines for web accessibility. Many pathways are paved, and special events like "Boo at the Zoo" are wheelchair accessible.
: The Amarillo Zoo is home to over 120 animals from more than 70 species. Highlights include African Lions, Bengal Tigers, American Black Bears, Red Pandas, Meerkats, and Jaguars. The zoo also features a dedicated Texas Native Wildlife exhibit, a Reptile House, an Aviary, and a popular Petting Zoo where children can interact with domestic animals like goats and sheep. Keep an eye out for recent additions like Roux, the Linnaeus's Two-toed Sloth, and the Santa Isabel Dart Frogs exhibit.