1. Travel

Texas Zoos - Viewing Wildlife Up Close

Texas is home to some of the top zoos in the nation. A visit to these zoos allows tourists to see both native wildlife, as well as exotic species imported from around the globe.

Texas Zoos

Few people realize the quality of zoos found in Texas. From Brownsville's Gladys Porter Zoo on the Mexican border to the illustrious San Antonio Zoo to the one-of-a-kind Texas Zoo in Victoria, there are a variety of settings in which to view native and exotic wildlife in the Lone Star State.

Gladys Porter Zoo

Located at the tip of Texas, in the border city of Brownsville, the Gladys Porter Zoo has long been recognized as one of the nation’s best zoos. Easily one of the most popular attractions in South Texas, Gladys Porter Zoo attracts nearly 400,000 visitors on an annual basis.

Austin Zoo & Animal Sanctuary

Formed in 1994, the Austin Zoo has grown every year since its formation and now draws over 200,000 visitors annually. Keeping with its primary goal of introducing kids to animals, the Austin Zoo is family friendly and has a number of exhibits and attractions specifically designed for the little ones.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

This 1,700-acre wildlife center, located in Glen Rose, is dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered and threatened species. Visitors can view over 1,000 animals from their own car or on guided tours.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a 400-acre drive-through safari located in the Texas Hill Country, just outside of San Antonio.

Texas Zoo

Located in Victoria, the Texas Zoo is dedicated to the "conservation of Texas fauna and flora" and has numerous displays showcasing native Texas wildlife.

Houston Zoo

Located next to Hermann Park near Houston's famed Medical District, the Houston Zoo has been giving Houston area residents and visitors close-up views of exotic wildlife since 1922.

San Antonio Zoo

One of the largest zoos in the nation, the San Antonio Zoo houses over 3,500 animals, making it a must see for kids and adults alike.

El Paso Zoo

Few folks realize this border city is home to one of the most impressive zoos in the state. Don't miss your chance to see it while you're in town.

Dallas Zoo

The oldest zoo in the American Southwest, the Dallas Zoo is also the largest zoo in Texas, covering more than 100 acres.

Ft. Worth Zoo

Visitors to the Ft. Worth Zoo will be transfixed by its wonderful exhibits, ranging from Raptor Canyon to Koala Outback, and attractions such as Tasmanian Tower and their virtual safari.

Abilene Zoo

The Abilene Zoo offers an ever-changing display of plant and animal life, through which it hopes to educate visitors on the natural world.

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