San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium Tours

San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium featuring interior views, zoo animals and marine life
San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium which includes forests, mangroves and zoo animals
San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium which includes zoo animals and animals
San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium which includes zoo animals and dangerous animals
San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium showing land animals and zoo animals


There are nearly 800 wild and wonderful species at the zoo in the center of Brackenridge Park, not  far from the city center.

The San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium was a gift from local businessman and philanthropist Colonel George W. Brackenridge. In 1914, he bought monkeys, bears, lions and buffalo and put them on a piece of land, which he gave to the City as a gift. The zoo takes up 35 acres (14 hectares) of the 343-acre (138-hectare) Brackenridge Park, which also includes a golf course, recreational center and archaeological sites dating back to the Spanish Colonial period and the Civil War.

Today, there are more than 8,500 mammals, reptiles, birds and sea creatures that call the San Antonio Zoo home. It also has one of the most successful breeding programs in the country. It was the first zoo in North America to reproduce endangered white rhinos, whooping cranes and Caribbean flamingos. More than 50 snow leopards have been born here since the 1970s. All of these animals are either given to other zoos or re-introduced into their natural habitats

A good place to start your visit is with a ride on the Eagle Train, which is well worth the small fee to get your bearings. Once on the ground, catch one of the regularly scheduled Exciting Encounters, demonstrations with various animals, which begin mid-morning. Watch keepers feed and interact with alligators, elephants, monkeys, hippos and more.

The Richard Friedrich Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions at the zoo, with a variety of water creatures, including piranhas, turtles and jellyfish. This is a great place to take children on a hot summer day.

As you move around the zoo, visit a wild African plain, a rainforest full of butterflies (open March through November) and feed Rainbow Lorikeets as they perch on your shoulder. Take little ones under five to Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot. It has indoor and outdoor play areas, an aquarium with fish and a garden with chickens. Children will enjoy the reptile exhibit, which features snakes, alligators and lizards.

Come prepared to spend an entire day, and arrive early to avoid lines. There are six eateries dotted around the zoo, from cafés serving snacks and sandwiches to restaurants with hot meals. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own lunch, find a shady spot and watch the wildlife.

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Best Lodging Options Near San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

Ranch Motel

Ranch Motel

2.5 out of 5
3101 Broadway, San Antonio, TX
Ranch Motel
Prime Location, Walk to All Best Known Attractions

Prime Location, Walk to All Best Known Attractions

San Antonio
Prime Location, Walk to All Best Known Attractions
Crockett Hotel

Crockett Hotel

3 out of 5
320 Bonham, San Antonio, TX
Crockett Hotel
Remodeled Modern 1br/1ba Apt2 Near Dtwn 5min Pearl

Remodeled Modern 1br/1ba Apt2 Near Dtwn 5min Pearl

3 out of 5
201 Wesley Place, #2, San Antonio, TX
Remodeled Modern 1br/1ba Apt2 Near Dtwn 5min Pearl
Riverwalk Plaza

Riverwalk Plaza

4 out of 5
100 Villita Street, Dwyer/Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Riverwalk Plaza
Menger Hotel

Menger Hotel

3.5 out of 5
204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Menger Hotel
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk

Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk

3 out of 5
105 S Saint Marys Street, San Antonio, TX
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk by IHG

InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk by IHG

4.5 out of 5
111 East Pecan Street, San Antonio, TX
InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk by IHG
Free Fun Included | Near Zoo, Pearl District & Riverwalk | Charming Historic Casa in Midtown

Free Fun Included | Near Zoo, Pearl District & Riverwalk | Charming Historic Casa in Midtown

San Antonio
Free Fun Included | Near Zoo, Pearl District & Riverwalk | Charming Historic Casa in Midtown
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 San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

At the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including walking through beautiful exhibits, live music performances, and theatrical shows. Nearby attractions include the vibrant downtown Riverwalk, local tours, and additional aquariums in the area. Make sure to check the availability of the aquarium for an enjoyable experience during your visit to San Antonio.

Food and drinks

Discover local flavors at the San Antonio Zoo with a visit to the Zoot Café for fresh sandwiches and salads. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the ice cream at the Zoo's Ice Cream Station. Check their websites for more details on menu offerings!

Shopping

The nearest shopping options include Market Square, a vibrant public market just 3 miles away, and the Shops at Rivercenter, also 3 miles away, offering family-friendly entertainment. North Star Mall is 4 miles away, featuring various shops in a lively setting. If you're up for a drive, check out other local boutiques and markets.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Alamodome, just 3 miles from the zoo, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, stroll through Brackenridge Park, located 0.3 miles away, where you can unwind in nature. If golf is your passion, enjoy a round at Historic Brackenridge Golf Course, 1 mile away.

Adventure

Explore The Amazing Mirror Maze, a fun family-friendly experience located 3 miles from the zoo. For a scenic adventure, hike the Mission Trail, located 7 miles away, or venture to Cibolo Creek - Veterans Park Trailhead, 13 miles from the zoo, for a thrilling outdoor experience.

Nightlife

Experience the captivating nightlife at the San Antonio Majestic Theater, just 3 miles away, where culture and romance come alive. For family fun, visit Morgan's Wonderland, 7 miles away, offering thrilling adventures. Don’t miss AMF Country Lanes, also 7 miles away, for bowling and entertainment!

Find the best attractions near San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium offers a variety of attractions for travelers, including urban parks, churches, and event venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in culture and enjoy family-friendly outdoor experiences. Don't miss exploring the iconic Alamo and nearby SeaWorld San Antonio for even more fun. With so much to see and do, your trip to San Antonio will be packed with memorable moments and diverse activities.

  • River Walk: Stroll along this picturesque 3-mile esplanade lined with shops, cafes, and lush greenery. Perfect for families and couples alike, the River Walk offers a serene escape with outdoor seating and vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day out.
  • Alamo: Step back in time at this iconic historic fort, which is a symbol of Texas' rich culture and history. Explore exhibits and learn about the pivotal events that took place here, making it a must-visit for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts.
  • Frost Bank Center: Enjoy a variety of entertainment options at this bustling arena, hosting concerts, sports events, and family-friendly shows. With its lively atmosphere, the Frost Bank Center is perfect for making unforgettable memories with loved ones.

Best time to go to San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

The best time to visit San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium 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 mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
March63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
April70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May76.3°F (24.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June82.8°F (28.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July85.3°F (29.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August86.5°F (30.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
November61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December55.6°F (13.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

To save money during your visit to the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, consider enjoying nearby free attractions like the River Walk and Market Square. The best months for budget travel are January and October to November, when accommodation prices dip. Utilize Expedia to find affordable hotel options by sorting results by price and category, including eco-certified hotels. You can further save by booking hotel and flight packages, and joining Expedia's One Key program for exclusive discounts and rewards. Remember to check for great deals on hotels to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results by price, starting with the lowest rates, so you can quickly find the most affordable hotel options. Additionally, you have the flexibility to narrow down your choices by hotel category. For instance, if you check the "Eco-certified" option, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium with your flights and activities by booking 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.