Dallas Zoo Tours

Dallas Zoo which includes zoo animals and land animals
Dallas Zoo
Dallas Zoo showing a cascade, landscape views and zoo animals
Dallas Zoo which includes land animals and zoo animals
Dallas Zoo


Lunch with lions, feed a giraffe or ride a camel in wild habitats near downtown Dallas.

Step into the Dallas Zoo and enter the home of what seems like the entire animal kingdom. Among the 2,000 animals you’ll find almost every species, from an endangered gorilla to the most common insect. It’s the only place in Texas where you’ll see koalas.

The zoo covers 106 acres (43 hectares) and is divided into two distinct areas: the original Zoo North section, opened in 1888, and the Wilds of Africa, which opened in 1990. Zoo North is closest to the zoo entrance. A highlight here is the bird landing, where you can feed over two dozen species of birds. The Bug U! enclosure showcases Texas' invertebrates, like the black widow spider. If creepy crawlies aren’t for you, head to the Snout Route, home to mountain lions and giant anteaters.

Another popular attraction at Zoo North is the Koala Walkabout. Meet Kobi and Tekin, the only koalas in Texas, as well as other famed characters of the Australian outback: kangaroos, emus, wallabies and kookaburras. There's also plenty of interactive entertainment, including pony treks and camel rides, which are great for the youngest family members.

In the Wilds of Africa, take the 20-minute Monorail Safari through desert, mountain, forest and river habitats. It’s worth the small fee for this narrated tour, as it’s the only way you will see many of the animals in this section. While you’re there, buy some lettuce and feed the giraffes.

Zoo North has its own dedicated food court, which serves sandwiches, salads and hot dogs. If you want to eat amongst the animals you can't go past the licensed restaurant Serengeti Grill. Floor-to-ceiling windows mean you can have your lunch in the company of the zoo's pride of lions.

The zoo is located three miles (five kilometers) south of downtown Dallas and has its own train station, linked to the main Dallas rail network. For families, the zoo makes a perfect day trip. It’s great when the skies are overcast, too. On hot Dallas days, animals seek shade and may not be visible.

Dallas Zoo is open daily except Christmas Day.

Plan a trip to see Dallas Zoo

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Renaissance Saint Elm Dallas Downtown Hotel
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Cooper Hotel Conference Center & Spa

Browse tours and tickets to explore Dallas Zoo

Tours & day trips

See all 79 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 28 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 12 activities

Shopping & fashion

See all 4 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Dallas Zoo

Omni Dallas Hotel

Omni Dallas Hotel

4 out of 5
555 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX
Omni Dallas Hotel
Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown

Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown

4 out of 5
1401 Commerce St, Dallas, TX
Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown
Bishop Arts Suites

Bishop Arts Suites

2 out of 5
921 E 8th St, Dallas, TX
Bishop Arts Suites
Chic Modern New Build - Great For Large Families

Chic Modern New Build - Great For Large Families

Dallas
Chic Modern New Build - Great For Large Families
The Madison

The Madison

3 out of 5
1159 N Madison Ave, Dallas, TX
The Madison
Trinity Suites Downtown Dallas

Trinity Suites Downtown Dallas

2.5 out of 5
1126 E. 8th Street, Dallas, TX
Trinity Suites Downtown Dallas
Trendy 2 BR Bishop Arts District House: Hot Tub Spa, Putting Green, Gardens

Trendy 2 BR Bishop Arts District House: Hot Tub Spa, Putting Green, Gardens

Dallas
Trendy 2 BR Bishop Arts District House: Hot Tub Spa, Putting Green, Gardens
Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown by IHG

Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1015 Elm St, Dallas, TX
Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown by IHG
 Bishop Arts Hotel by Qresorts.

Bishop Arts Hotel by Qresorts.

3.5 out of 5
975 N Zang Blvd, Dallas, TX
Bishop Arts Hotel by Qresorts.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dallas Zoo

At the Dallas Zoo, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including live music and wildlife exhibits. It's an ideal day trip destination where you can discover fascinating animal encounters. Nearby, you can explore beautiful botanical gardens and stay at local hotels for a complete experience. Don't miss the chance to find and enjoy all that this vibrant area has to offer!

Food and drinks

While visiting the Dallas Zoo, don't miss the Serengeti Grill for tasty bites. For a lively atmosphere, House of Blues Dallas offers great food and music, just 3 miles away. If you're in the mood for wine, Delaney Vineyards is a charming winery located 19 miles from the zoo.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near Dallas Zoo, visit Dallas Farmer's Market, only 3 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere for local goods. If you're up for a drive, Galleria Dallas, located 13 miles away, features a variety of shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Cotton Bowl offers a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for catching a game or enjoying the lively energy. For a touch of romance and culture, visit the ATT Performing Arts Center, showcasing captivating performances. Cedar Crest Golf Course invites you to enjoy outdoor sports amid picturesque landscapes, just a short drive from the zoo.

Adventure

Explore the Katy Trail, located 4 miles from Dallas Zoo, for an invigorating hike surrounded by beautiful scenery and vibrant outdoor vibes. Alternatively, venture to the Turtle Creek Greenbelt, 5 miles away, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and adventure-filled trails.

Nightlife

After your visit to the Dallas Zoo, catch a show at the Majestic Theater, known for its cultural charm, located 3 miles away. For a cozy movie night, head to the Texas Theatre, just 0.6 miles away, offering a romantic family vibe. Adventure awaits at Adventure Kids Playcare, 12 miles distant!

Find the best attractions near Dallas Zoo

While visiting the Dallas Zoo, you can explore a variety of attractions, including the Children's Zoo and the beautiful Dallas Arboretum. The area is rich in culture and family-friendly experiences, with urban parks and entertainment venues nearby. Don’t miss out on iconic Dallas landmarks that enhance your city experience and make your trip memorable.

  • American Airlines Center: Experience the excitement at this premier arena, just 3 miles from Dallas Zoo. Home to sports events and concerts, it offers a lively atmosphere perfect for families and entertainment seekers alike.
  • Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center: Located 3 miles away, this expansive convention center is a hub for business events and conferences. With modern facilities, it’s ideal for networking and professional gatherings.
  • Reunion Tower: Just 2 miles from the zoo, this iconic modern tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dallas. Enjoy the vibrant city vibes as you take in the stunning skyline from its observation deck.

Best time to go to Dallas Zoo

Visitor numbers around Dallas Zoo is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Dallas Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
February49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May73.8°F (23.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July86.7°F (30.4°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August87.4°F (30.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dallas Zoo

To save money during your visit to the Dallas Zoo, consider traveling in August or November to December, when hotel prices are lower. Explore nearby free attractions like the Bishop Arts District and the Dallas Museum of Art. Use Expedia to find cheap hotels and book packages that combine flights and activities for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Be sure to filter hotel searches by price to find the best deals available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dallas Zoo are August and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and March to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Dallas Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.