Picture yourself standing eye-to-eye with a towering giraffe, watching elephants splash playfully in their pool, or witnessing a lion cub's first steps. At the Dallas Zoo, these magical moments happen every day. As Texas's premier wildlife destination, this 106-acre wonderland invites visitors to discover extraordinary animals while learning about wildlife conservation and having unforgettable family adventures.
What's New at the Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo never stops evolving, and this year brings exciting developments that will transform your wildlife experience. From innovative habitats to enhanced amenities, each new yar promises to be an extraordinary year for zoo adventures.
Safari Exhibit Expansion
Step into Africa without leaving Texas in the zoo's ambitious new expansion. The reimagined safari zone features elevated walkways that put you at eye level with giraffes and spacious new habitats where zebras and antelope roam freely together. Interactive learning stations bring conservation stories to life, while special viewing areas let you watch the fascinating social interactions between species. Plan to spend at least 90 minutes exploring this immersive new attraction, especially during the morning hours when animals are most active.
Exploring the Dallas Zoo: Must-See Exhibits
Giants of the Savanna
Imagine a young elephant playfully splashing in a watering hole while giraffes gracefully browse nearby treetops and zebras graze in the distance. This isn't a scene from an African nature documentary — it's a typical morning at the Giants of the Savanna exhibit. This 11-acre habitat revolutionizes traditional zoo design by allowing multiple species to share space naturally. The best time to visit is during the 10 a.m. keeper chat, when you might see elephants enjoying enrichment activities or giraffes reaching for their breakfast. Allow at least an hour to fully experience this magnificent exhibit.
Wilds of Africa on Adventure Safari Monorail
Embark on a 20-minute journey through six distinct African habitats aboard the Adventure Safari Monorail. Your guided tour winds through forests where chimpanzees play, past tranquil waters where hippos cool off, and alongside rocky outcrops where lions bask in the sun. Early afternoon rides likely offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as many animals become more active after their morning rest.
Zoo Hours and Location
The Dallas Zoo is conveniently situated at 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, just minutes from downtown Dallas. During the popular Safari Nights events, the zoo extends its hours into the evening, with opportunities to observe nocturnal animal behaviors.
Lacerte Family Children's Zoo
Welcome to every young animal lover's paradise! This interactive zone transforms children from observers into explorers. Little ones can follow stroller-friendly paths to meet gentle Nigerian dwarf goats, learn about native Texas wildlife, and participate in daily animal encounters. The Nature Exchange turns your kids into citizen scientists, allowing them to trade natural items like feathers and rocks for points while learning about each specimen. Plan for at least 45 minutes here, though many families spend much longer exploring all the hands-on activities.
Planning Your Visit
Special Events and Programs
The zoo comes alive with special programming throughout the year. The dazzling Dallas Zoo Lights (mid-November through early January) transform evening visits into magical experiences with over one million synchronized lights, animated displays, and seasonal treats. Walking paths are stroller and wheelchair accessible, with dedicated viewing areas for families. Our favorite Dallas Zoo exhibits you can't miss include daily keeper talks, behind-the-scenes tours, and seasonal celebrations.
Best Times To Visit
For the optimal experience, time your visit strategically:
- Weekday mornings (9 to 11 a.m.) offer smaller crowds and active animals.
- Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) provide comfortable temperatures.
- Winter weekends feature shorter lines and indoor viewing opportunities.
- Rainy days often mean more active animals and fewer visitors.
Ticketing and Packages
Zoo members enjoy unlimited visits, exclusive morning hours, and special event discounts throughout the year. Not a zoo member? No problem! Dallas CityPASS® tickets provide significant savings on zoo admission, plus other popular Dallas attractions.
Dining and Amenities
The zoo offers multiple family-friendly dining options:
- Prime Meridian Café: Air-conditioned comfort with savanna views.
- Serengeti Grill: Quick-service meals and snacks.
- Cat's Corner Café: Grab-and-go options near major exhibits.
- Picnic Grove: Shaded tables for packed lunches.
All restaurants offer healthy options and accommodate common dietary restrictions. Nursing mothers will find private spaces in the Family Center near the Children's Zoo.
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Step behind the scenes of wildlife conservation at the zoo's state-of-the-art hospital and rehabilitation center. This facility treats over 900 injured native animals annually, from tiny hummingbirds to majestic raptors. Educational displays showcase success stories and explain how the zoo's veterinary team provides critical care. Check the daily schedule for special presentations about ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Your Experience
Make your visit even more memorable with these expert suggestions:
- Download the Dallas Zoo map and plan a stroller-friendly route beginning with the Giants of the Savanna.
- Pack water bottles, sunscreen, and light snacks.
- Attend early morning keeper talks at the Giants of the Savanna.
- Visit indoor exhibits during the afternoon heat.
- Bring a lightweight stroller — some paths have gentle inclines.
- Consider a mid-week visit to avoid peak crowds.
- Keep your camera ready near the giraffe feeding platform.
Experience the Dallas Zoo's New Safari Exhibit and Save With CityPASS® Tickets!
Ready to embark on your Dallas Zoo adventure? Make the most of your visit with CityPASS® tickets, which include admission to the zoo plus other must-see Dallas attractions at significant savings. Purchase your Dallas CityPASS® tickets today and prepare for an experience where conservation, education, and family fun create lasting memories.
Dallas Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Dallas, we recommend finding lodging near Dallas's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader image Courtesy of Dallas Zoo