Visiting a zoo to see and learn about exotic animals is one of a family’s best plans! But zoos aren’t the only places where you can see animals.
Texas has a great variety of venues where you can enjoy a lovely day doing this activity, such as aquariums, wildlife sanctuaries, farms, and more!
We have created a list of the 25 best places to see animals in Texas, from exotic to native species. You will want to visit them all!
1
6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030, USA
Houston Zoo
Feed giraffes, see cheetahs, sea lions, bears, and more! The Houston Zoo inspires action to save wildlife, while you get to see these amazing species up-close. One of the best places to see animals in Texas!2
1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, Texas 76110, USA
Fort Worth Zoo
Home to more than 500 animal species including 72 species of mammals, 148 species of birds, and 172 species of ectotherms, Fort Worth Zoo offers many great exhibits for the entire family to enjoy a great day!3
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736, USA
Austin Zoo
You will have the chance to see over 300 animals and enjoy a nice family day. Discover exotic species, as well as Texas native animals all in one place.4
3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, USA
San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and many different amazing species! The entire family will enjoy this special place that protects animals and educate the community.5
650 South R L Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TX 75203, USA
Dallas Zoo
This 160-acre zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and 400 different species! Learn about the animals, feed giraffes, enjoy birds landing, and more! Meet all the amazing species and have a fun family day.6
13530 U.S. 183, Austin, TX 78750, USA
Austin Aquarium
The Austin Aquarium is the perfect place for families to experience everything the amazing sea has to offer.7
3203 Farm to Market 1960 Road East, Humble, TX 77338, USA
Old MacDonald’s Farm
This lovely 15-acre farm features 12 petting zoo barns, pony rides, train ride, swimming pool, and many other activities that kids will love! Kids can have fun in the playgrounds, and the whole family can interact with amazing farm animals!8
23231 County Road 48, Angleton, TX 77515, USA
Crocodile Encounter
Get ready to have a great and different experience! See crocodiles and alligators swimming and sunning and enjoy feeding demonstrations. You will also have the chance to see snakes, lizards, and turtles!9
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Experience an African Safari, Texas-style! Explore 450 acres of rolling hills, oak trees, and witness the behavior of over 500 exotic, native, and endangered animals. This safari drive-through offers close animal interactions for the entire family to enjoy!10
410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, USA
Downtown Aquarium
This 6- acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland! See over 300 species of aquatic animals, enjoy amazing exhibits, rides, and games! A family’s favorite place! One of the best places to see animals in Texas!11
Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754, USA
Pioneer Farms
A 90-acre living history museum depicting life in 1800s Texas, with five restored historic sites and a village.12
Dewberry Farm, Farm to Market 362, Brookshire, TX, USA
Dewberry Farms
Families can enjoy pony rides, as well as an 8-acre corn maze, 50 attractions, eating spots, seasonal live entertainment, and music! There’s something for every member of the family at Dewberry Farms!13
2203 West Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard, Tyler, Texas 75702, USA
Caldwell Zoo
Caldwell Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals including zebras, giraffes, alligators, black bears, and more! Explore the African Savanna, North, and South American habitats, and learn many new things!14
1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX, USA
The Dallas World Aquarium
From the rainforest exhibit where you will see exotic birds, to the aquarium part which displays marine life, you will love to visit the Dallas World Aquarium! Discover amazing exhibits and learn about exotic animals!15
1701 North 4th Street, Waco, Texas 76707, USA
Cameron Park Zoo
At this amazing place, you will see more than 1700 animals and over 300 species in their natural habitat. This 52-acre zoo features views of native vegetation, waterfalls, a lake, and ponds. Don’t miss the chance to visit this beautiful place. One of the best places to see animals in Texas!16
17552 Farm to Market Road 14, Tyler, TX 75706, USA
Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge
This animal sanctuary is home to over 40 rescued big cats and other endangered species. You can take a tour and learn about the species and how can you help ensure their future. Meet the majestic felines with the family!17
235 Zoo Trail, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA
The Exotic Resort Zoo
Once you arrive at The Exotic Resort Zoo, you will begin an adventure through 137 sprawling wooded acres, where you will see more than 700 exotic animals from 80 different species that will invite you into their home.18
945 Co Rd 118, Copperas Cove, TX 76522, USA
Topsey Exotic Ranch & Drive Thru Safari
Visit Topsey Exotic Ranch & Drive-Thru Safari to live a unique experience that brings animals from all around the planet to civilization’s doorstep19
2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose, TX, USA
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Take a tour with the family at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and get to meet some amazing animals. Located on 1,800 acres, Fossil Rim is home to many animals such as kudu, cheetah, addax, rhinos, and more!20
10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX, USA
SeaWorld San Antonio
Families have an amazing time seeing and learning about marine animals at SeaWorld! You will get to experience close-up encounters, enjoy thrilling rides, performances, and so much more, all in one place!21
7112 Newcastle Street, Bellaire, TX 77401, USA
