San Antonio Zoo, founded in 1914 and opened to the public in 1929, traces its roots to a fenced deer preserve established in Brackenridge Park in 1902. Today, it is home to over 750 species and more than 3,500 animals from all over the world.
San Antonio Zoo is open year-round and features exhibitions such as Big Cat Valley, Outpost Amazonia and Africa Live, where you will encounter lions, jaguars, hippos, giraffes, zebras, exotic birds, and several feeding and petting stations. Below is a list of main attractions, must-see animals, where to eat, parking and nearby hotels.
San Antonio Zoo Main Attractions
Africa Live!
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San Antonio Zoo’s most recent exhibition focuses on African wildlife. Trek into Africa with underwater views of hippos and Nile crocodiles and trails leading to encounters with okapis, African wild dogs, dwarf mongoose and more.
Tip: check out the Savanna exhibition to get fully immersed in the continent’s wildlife.
Zoo Eagle Train
A visit to San Antonio Zoo is not complete without a train ride. Hop in and rest your feet while enjoying a scenic tour covering up to 3.2 miles around the park. This 30-minute guided ride takes you and your family to unspoiled areas of the zoo, into forests and jungles, and features stops at the Witte Museum and the Japanese Tea Gardens.
Price: Check the zoo's official website for current pricing. Under 3's go free.
Giraffe Feeding
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Nothing compares to the experience of feeding the trio of giraffes: Cosmo, Alan and Brayden. This attraction is led by San Antonio Zoo’s giraffe experts, who will teach you about the world’s tallest land mammal. You will be given 3 fresh lettuce leaves for feeding.
Price: Check the zoo's official website for current pricing, bookable near the giraffe desk on the day of your visit.
San Antonio Zoo's Most Popular Animals
Spectacled Bear
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The spectacled bear is the last remaining species of bear native to South America. Its name references the light colouring on its chest, neck and face. Learn more about this endangered creature and its natural habitat at the Bear’s Corner as you pass San Antonio Zoo’s main entrance.
Clouded Leopard
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This native to the Himalayan foothills can be recognised at distance for its fur patterns and long canine teeth. Although called ‘leopard’, the clouded leopard is classified as a wild cat and not directly related to leopards. Discover more at the Cat Grotto exhibition in San Antonio Zoo.
Gibbon
Head to the Gibbon Forest to encounter these natural gymnasts hanging off ropes and vines in one of San Antonio Zoo’s simulated forests. Unlike most apes, gibbons form long-term pair bonds that frequently last a lifetime.
San Antonio Zoo Dining Options
Whether you are hungry or fancy a snack, the San Antonio Zoo serves food for every taste. Check the options below:
Longnecks Bar & Grill: African-inspired open-air cafe serving American classics with a Southwest touch.
Riverview Restaurant: Enjoy a range of light meals, burgers, sandwiches and ice-cream.
Beastro Restaurant: Eat with a view, serving a range of burgers and pizzas.
Lory Cafe: Aussie Snacks, Fun Farm Snacks and Dear Den serve light bites, hot and cold drinks.
San Antonio Zoo Tickets & Packages
Standard ticket
Adults (+12): Check the zoo's official website for current pricing.
Children (3-11 years old): Check the zoo's official website for current pricing.
Under 3’s: FREE
Fun day ticket
Includes 1x standard admission plus 1x carousel ride and 1x entry to the Butterflies Caterpillar Flight School.
Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rental; please book in advance. Groups of 10-49 people may qualify for a discount per person off standard admission. Book online only.
Parking
Check the zoo's official website for current parking information. You are advised to park in one of the nearby areas below:
Brackenridge Park: Check for current parking availability and fees.
Alpine Park: Check for current parking availability and fees.
San Antonio Water System: Check for current parking availability, fees, and hours.
San Antonio Zoo Opening Hours
San Antonio Zoo Opening Hours: Check the zoo's official website for current hours.
Hotels Near San Antonio Zoo
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Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk-Downtown: Located on the banks of San Antonio Riverwalk, this hotel is minutes from San Antonio Zoo.
Marriott Plaza San Antonio: Sitting on Texan landscape, relax after a long day exploring the city's major attractions in this hotel. Marriott Plaza is two blocks from the city centre and a step from the San Antonio Zoo.
Menger Hotel: Budget-friendly hotel for those looking to save money but still stay in the downtown area.
Tourist Attractions Near San Antonio Zoo
Thinking of staying longer in San Antonio? Find below some must-sees to make your trip better.
San Antonio River Walk
The city’s most iconic landmark. Make your way through its walkways, bridges, shops and authentic Texan-style eateries.
The Alamo
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Also known as Mision San Antonio de Valero, The Alamo is a fortress dating back to the 18th century, when the Battle of Alamo was fought between the Republic of Texas and Mexico. A short walk from downtown, the Alamo is a great place to visit with kids and family.
Historic Market Square
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The Historic Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the US, with a three-block market plaza featuring more than 100 stalls and shops portraying the rich Mexican-American culture of San Antonio. Indulge in margaritas and tacos, dance to mariachi, and discover the art alleys of La Villita to make the most of your stay.
Related travel guides: Everything You Need To Know About Detroit Zoo.
