Looking for the best zoos in Texas? Then you will enjoy this list of the top zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers that this great state has to offer.

The Best Zoos in Texas

Below is the ultimate guide for the best zoo in Texas. With so many zoos, aquariums, and safaris scattered across the state, you will find the perfect zoo to visit near you.

Fort Worth Zoo

What is the best zoo in Texas? Ranked the number one zoo in the United States by USA Today, so of course, it’s at the top of our list.

There is always something new and exciting happening at the Fort Worth Zoo. It is also the oldest zoo that began in 1909.

What makes this zoo stand apart from the others? They currently have ver 540 species including 72 species of mammals, 148 species of birds, and 172 species of ectotherms.

The Fort Worth Zoo offers several amazing exhibits that guests will not want to miss.

Africa Savanna: the Savanna allows guests to see giraffes, springbok, ostriches, and more in one area. Plus guests can get up close and personal while feeding the giraffes.

Museum of Living Art (MOLA): Guests can view the 5,000 reptiles, amphibians and of course get a glimpse of the komodo dragons.

Guests will especially enjoy the newest adventure, Predators of Asia & Africa! Visitors will get to see new animals like the African leopard, clouded leopard and satyr tragopan. Along with lions, cheetah, hyenas and so much more.

The Fort Worth Zoo is only about a 5-minute drive to the Fort Worth Botanical Garden and worth a trip.

After enjoying a day at the zoo, you can walk through the gorgeous botanical garden, have a picnic on the grounds or explore Fort Worth.

Dallas zoo

This North Texas zoo might be located in downtown Dallas, but you’ll feel like a world away when you step inside this zoo. They have a large number of unique animal species,

Be sure to visit the Wild Encounters Stage to get up close with a variety of animals, like fascinating reptiles, free-flighted birds, porcupines, and more. Ticket prices vary depending on the season.

Houston Zoo

Guests of the Houston Zoo get to see many of their favorite animals in outdoor wildlife habitats, including Asian elephants, southern white rhinos, Malayan tigers, western lowland gorillas, African lions, and more!

They now offer a Night at the Zoo. On Thursday evening you can take part in a behind-the-scenes of what zookeepers do as the animals are settling down for the evening.

Austin Zoo

This is a non-profit rescue zoo and currently has over 300 animals, representing more than 100 different species.

The animal collection includes animals from other facilities that are being retired due to age, health, or other issues.

San Antonio Zoo

The San Antonio Zoo currently has over 300 animals, representing more than 100 different species. Our animal collection includes animals from other facilities that are being retired due to age, health, or other issues.

They also offer a drive thru zoo at certain times during the year. There is so much to do in San Antonio, making it a great weekend getaway.

Caldwell Zoo

This is an 85-acre zoo located in the city of Tyler, Texas. It features animals from all over the world. It features animals from all over the world.

They offer summer camps for kids and ZooSchool that offers classes that meet once a month for a total of 6 sessions.

Dallas World Aquarium

Located near the Historic West End District in downtown Dallas, you’ll find this indoor animal wonderland. See fascinating animals and marine life up close in spacious habitats at the Dallas World Aquarium.

Texas State Aquarium

Get a look into our exhibits that few others get to witness, and help our staff feed and interact with many of our animals, including birds, sharks, and even sea turtles.

This zoo is located next to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no wonder they are known for their marine wildlife. The sea turtles are one animal that everyone comes to see.

Sea Life Grapevine

This interactive aquarium is located at Grapevine Mills in Grapevine, Texas.

The aquarium contains thousands of aquatic creatures, plus interactive touch pools and a 360° ocean tunnel.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

A Texas-size safari sits 2 hours from DFW but makes you feel like you are on a different continent.

This drive-thru park is a great place to see exotic animals in their natural environment. Each car can purchase one bag of feed for the animals. Be sure to bring binoculars so you can view the animals at the overlooks.

The park is consists of a 7 miles drive with over 1,000 animals and expect to spend several hours driving through the park. They have a gift shop and restaurant about halfway through the drive.