Texas is home to some of the country’s most impressive zoos, safaris, aquariums, and wildlife encounters. Whether you want to get up close and personal with exotic critters, learn about ocean inhabitants, or get to know the animal kingdom while you take a leisurely stroll through the zoo, Texas is the place to be.
For newcomers to Texas just looking to move in and buy a home in Texas, or old timers who have generations of roots, the zoos and wildlife centers are a place to celebrate the diversity of nature in the lone star state.
There’s more than just zoos in Texas. For all the critter lovers out there, here’s a roundup of the best places to observe the animal kingdom in Texas.
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and at the Fort Worth Zoo, this couldn’t be more accurate. If you are looking for zoos in Texas, you’ve got the spot.
If you aren’t in a rush, you could easily spend an entire day here. This large zoo is home to 452 types of animals including apes, reptiles, elephants, and rhinos.
Admiring these animals up close is a truly remarkable experience. The exhibits are award-winning, and there are ample dining options available to help you refuel during your visit.
This beautiful aquarium features stunning interior design and a colorful collection of underwater friends. Here, you’ll be able to admire coral reefs, feed the stingrays, and watch the dolphins perform tricks.
There are hundreds of species living at the Texas State Aquarium, and you definitely don’t want to miss the sea turtles.
Hang out with over 1,000 animal species from the comfort of your car at the Franklin Drive-Thru Safari. If you want to get out and stretch your legs, you can head to the petting zoo or the pedestrian area to see kangaroos, monkeys, camels, giraffes, and other adorable critters.
Before you leave, be sure to say hello to the zebras and let them eat a tasty treat right from the palm of your hand.
What originally began with a single bison in the 1920s is now one of the most popular zoos in Texas. Today, of all the zoos in Texas, the Houston Zoo is one of the oldest at at almost 100 years old, and it houses all sorts of interesting animals. The Houston Zoo is dedicated to preserving native Texas species, so you’ll be able to learn about the Lonestar State’s diverse wildlife when you visit the Houston Zoo.
Located in Jefferson, Texas, the Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari is small but impressive. Visitors can experience an up-close encounter with the safari’s donkeys, red deer, wildebeests, and zebras. Check out the petting zoo, feed the animals, and stop by the souvenir shop after going through the drive-thru.