ZooTexas, US

San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Zoo is an award-winning wildlife haven offering immersive experiences and a deep commitment to conservation.

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About

San Antonio Zoo is an award-winning wildlife haven offering immersive experiences and a deep commitment to conservation.

This 56-acre institution in Brackenridge Park transports visitors worldwide with thoughtfully designed habitats such as the majestic African Plains, the lush Asian Forest, and the vibrant Neotropica. Beyond the impressive array of over 8,500 animals from 779 species, the zoo actively champions conservation, participating in vital reintroduction programs for endangered species like the Texas horned lizard and contributing to global efforts for amphibians and other imperiled creatures.

Guests can embark on an exotic safari, encountering everything from majestic lions and towering giraffes to elusive red pandas and colorful tropical birds. Interactive experiences like hand-feeding giraffes and strolling through aviaries filled with vibrant lorikeets create unforgettable memories. The zoo also boasts unique attractions such as the Richard Friedrich Aquarium, the historic San Antonio Zoo Train, and new additions like Congo Falls, bringing gorillas back after decades.

A visit to the San Antonio Zoo is more than just seeing animals; it's an opportunity to connect with the natural world and support critical conservation work. Whether you're watching the playful antics of a hippo from an underwater viewing area, exploring the rich biodiversity of the Amazon, or enjoying one of the many seasonal events, the zoo offers an engaging and educational adventure for all ages. Its blend of entertainment and dedication to wildlife makes it a truly special destination in the heart of Texas. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.

The San Antonio Zoo's origins trace back to 1914 when Colonel George W. Brackenridge donated a collection of animals, including bison, deer, monkeys, lions, and bears, to the city on land that became Brackenridge Park. This initial collection laid the foundation for what would become a world-class zoo. In 1929, the zoo made history by opening two of the first cageless exhibits in the United States, the Barless Bear Terraces and Primate Paradise, offering visitors unprecedented views of the animals. Over the decades, the zoo continued to expand its offerings, with the Richard Friedrich Aquarium opening in 1948 and the Hixon Bird House in 1966, featuring a simulated tropical rainforest. The San Antonio Zoo has a rich history of conservation, housing the first herd of addra gazelle in captivity in 1969 and achieving the birth of the first white rhino in the New World in 1972. Recent significant developments include the opening of the Naylor Savanna in October 2024, greatly expanding African habitats, and the return of gorillas with the opening of Congo Falls in December 2025.

What to do here

Explore diverse habitats and observe thousands of animals.

* Participate in animal encounters like giraffe feeding and Lory Landing.

* Ride the San Antonio Zoo Train for a relaxing tour of the park.

* Enjoy seasonal events like Zoo Boo (Halloween) and Zoo Lights (holiday season).

* Visit the Richard Friedrich Aquarium and Reptile House for close-up encounters.

* Let kids play at The Riverbank water and sand play area or the jungle-themed playground.

Seasonal info

Spring (March-May): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, and active animals make this a great time.

Fall (September-early November): Summer heat eases, fall foliage adds charm, and the zoo hosts seasonal events like Zoo Boo.

Winter (December-February): Quieter and cooler, with animals from cooler climates often more lively. The zoo also features festive events like Zoo Lights.

Accessibility

The zoo features wide, paved, and wheelchair-accessible pathways. The train can accommodate strollers and mobility devices. Family restrooms, baby care stations, and ADA parking spaces are available. Manual wheelchairs and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. The San Antonio Zoo is Sensory Inclusive Certified, offering Sensory Bags for guests with sensory needs. Trained service animals are welcome after check-in.

Don't miss

Congo Falls

A new, immersive habitat marking the return of gorillas to the zoo.

Naylor Savanna

An expanded African habitat featuring zebras, sitatungas, giraffes, and white rhinos.

Africa Live!

Features hippos with an underwater viewing area, Nile crocodiles, Angolan colobus monkeys, okapi, African hunting dogs, and a large aviary.

Kangaroo Krossing

An interactive walk-through exhibit where guests can get up close with kangaroos and wallabies.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Duck

American Robin

House Sparrow

Anole

Northern Mockingbird

Northern Cardinal

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

Get there right at opening for cooler weather, more active animals, and fewer crowds, especially at popular exhibits like Big Cat Valley or Naylor Savanna.

Hydrate and Protect

Bring a refillable water bottle (refill stations are available) and wear comfortable shoes, light layers, sunscreen, and a hat, as San Antonio weather can be warm.

Buy Tickets Online

Purchase your tickets in advance on the zoo's website to save time and bypass ticket lines at the entrance.

Plan Your Route

Consider starting with major habitats like Congo Falls or Africa Live! when animals are most active, then explore other areas.

Utilize Rentals

If needed, strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs are available for rent at the entrance.

Consider Animal Encounters

Don't miss opportunities like giraffe feeding or Lory Landing for unique, interactive experiences. These often occur at specific times, so check the schedule.

Frequently asked questions

: Visitors are allowed to bring small coolers, bottled water, and outside food into the San Antonio Zoo, with exceptions for glass containers, straws, and alcoholic beverages. Ice chests and large coolers are not permitted.
: It typically takes about 3-4 hours to walk through and experience all the exhibits and animal displays at the San Antonio Zoo.
: Yes, visitors have multiple parking options. There are public parking areas within Brackenridge Park and its surrounding areas. Additionally, the zoo offers a new parking garage located between the zoo entrance and the Will Smith Zoo School, which provides complimentary parking during zoo operating hours.