The Fort Worth Zoo sits on Colonial Parkway in Fort Worth, Texas, and is the oldest continuously operating zoo in Texas. It keeps about 7,000 animals from more than 500 species in habitats set among lush greenery, which gives plenty of shade on hot days. Highlights include feeding giraffes at the African Savanna, the Texas Wild habitats, the Museum of Living Art reptile house and the Safari Splash water play area. Allow at least half a day, and a full day if you want to see everything.
From a small collection in 1909
The zoo opened in 1909 with a small first collection that included rabbits and a lion. It is the oldest continuously operating zoo in Texas. Over the decades it grew into one of the city's most visited attractions, and a major transformation in the early 1990s reshaped it into the zoo visitors know today.
Animals and habitats
The zoo keeps about 7,000 animals in 16 permanent habitats. All four great apes are kept here, and the World of Primates area is the place to see them. Other areas include the penguin pavilion, Elephant Springs, Flamingo Bay, the African Savanna, the Australian Outback and Parrot Paradise.
Flamingo Bay is home to a breeding colony of lesser flamingos. The zoo's reptile collection is also one of the largest in the country, so reptile and amphibian houses are worth a longer look if you enjoy them.
Texas Wild and the Museum of Living Art
Texas Wild recreates about seven habitats native to the state, set within the zoo's 64 acres. It is a useful stop for seeing wildlife from across Texas in one walk.
The Museum of Living Art, called MOLA, is a reptile and amphibian house of about 30,000 square feet. It holds some of the most exotic and endangered reptiles and amphibians at the zoo, and the building has won awards for its exhibits.
Giraffes, water play and the train
The giraffe feeding at the African Savanna is one of the most popular hands-on moments. Daily shows and animal keeper talks run through the day. A petting zoo, a play barn and an interactive barn give younger children room to move.
Safari Splash is a water play area with an additional fee, and it is most useful in the warmer months. Parents can sit on shaded lounge chairs while children play, and there is a designated area for toddlers. A miniature train runs between the Safari Depot and Texas Wild, which helps when little legs get tired.
Planning the visit
Arrive at opening to get a spot in the front parking lot. Once it fills, you will park in the overflow lot and walk further. Buying tickets in advance is recommended, and debit cards and mobile payments are accepted.
The paths have plenty of shade and mist stops, which helps in summer, when temperatures can reach the 90s. Animals are most active early in the morning and move into shaded areas as the day heats up. Strollers are available to rent at the entrance. A wagon or umbrella stroller is a practical choice for a young child, because the zoo is large.
The entrance, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Conservation and education
The zoo focuses on conservation and education. Its conservation work covers endangered species and their natural habitats. It cares for 68 endangered animals, and its collection includes critically endangered species such as gharials, orangutans, clouded leopards and red wolves.
The zoo has also offered a Zoo After Dark program with guided tours and animal encounters at night, which is a different way to see the animals.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Admission is charged and is half price on Wednesdays. Safari Splash has an additional fee on top of general admission.
How long do you need at the zoo?
Plan for a half day or a full day. The zoo is large, and a full day gives you time to see most of the exhibits.
Can you feed the giraffes?
Yes. Giraffe feeding takes place at the African Savanna.
Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes, outside food and drinks are allowed. Bottled water sold on site costs about $5, so a refillable bottle is worth packing.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, seating and parking lot are listed as wheelchair accessible.
