Entertainment

5 Tips for Your Summer Zoo Visit

June 21 2023

Add a Zoo visit to your summer break plans! The Houston Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with last entry at 4:00 p.m. There’s always something new to see, including growing Zoo families, like our capybaras, white-cheeked gibbons, meerkat mob, and more. Check out these expert tips below as you plan your next visit.

1. Explore the Houston Zoo's newest exhibit, Galápagos Islands

With more than 90% of the Houston Zoo's newest exhibit being indoors, cool off this summer and journey to the Galápagos Islands right here in Houston! See California sea lions, Humboldt penguins, Galápagos tortoises, One Ocean Aquarium, and more.

2. Stay cool at multiple indoor spots

The Houston Zoo has several, air-conditioned spots, including Galápagos Islands, for you to cool off as you explore the Zoo. Check out a few favorites around the Zoo:

Carruth Natural Encounters – See Asian small-clawed otters, sloths, red-bellied piranhas, and more.
Bug House – See some of the Zoo’s smallest and most fascinating residents.
Reptile & Amphibian House – Spot lizards, snakes, amphibians, and more.
Great Ape Gallery – Watch chimpanzees explore their habitat and see gorillas indoors in the Gorilla Day Room.
Gorilla Arrival Building – Within the African Forest, see panoramic scenery of the gorilla and red river hog habitat.
Cypress Circle Café – Cool off in the heart of the Zoo at the Green Restaurant Certified café that serves a variety of food and beverages.

3. Buy tickets early

Plan ahead with Flex Pricing! The earlier you buy your tickets the better the price. It gives you more options to plan a Zoo visit that best fits your budget and schedule. Click here to buy your tickets on the Houston Zoo website, and don't forget to explore the Zoo's membership options!

Note: Ticket holders can enter any time after your ticket’s listed arrival time. You are welcome to enjoy the Zoo until close at 5:00 p.m. Last entry is at 4:00 p.m.

4. Arrive early and plan ahead with your parking options

In the summer, traffic and parking can be busier than usual around the Zoo and Hermann Park. To help you avoid increased traffic, allow for extra time and check out the Zoo's recommended parking options, including carpooling, rideshare and the METRORail. To get to the Houston Zoo from the METRORail, you’ll need to ride the Red Line, exit Hermann Park/Rice U, and walk through the Japanese Gardens to reach the Zoo’s main entrance.

5. Enhance your visit

During your summer break, enjoy a variety of activities with your crew! Take a ride on the Wildlife Carousel, feed Masai giraffes a leafy treat daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., or book a unique Animal Encounter experience, like the new giant anteater encounter.

About the Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo is committed to being a leader in the global effort to save animals in the wild. Home to over 6,000 permanent animal residents, the Houston Zoo provides the highest standard in animal care. Every time you visit the Zoo, you're helping the Houston Zoo save animals in the wild. The Houston Zoo supports 49 wildlife conservation projects in 27 countries around the world. To learn more about the Houston Zoo, please visit houstonzoo.org.

Source: Houston Zoo