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    Austin Zoo

    3.9 (501 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Austin Zoo Photos

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    Looking a bit run down
    Maria E.

    First, I just wanted to address the recurring complaint in many reviews regarding the zoo not being stroller-friendly. We left our wagon in the car due to those reviews and later regretted it. You can get by with a sturdy stroller here (with robust wheels). A flimsy one might struggle in some areas. Most of the walking areas are flat (not paved though) but there are a few gnarly areas that are pretty rocky and situated on an incline. I'm posting photos for reference although it might be a bit tough to see. The zoo could really smooth these areas out to make things easier and safer for visitors. Ultimately, the zoo is fairly small -- I had my youngest in a front-facing carrier while my 3YO walked. Second, I wanted to note that the Austin Zoo is not affiliated with the city of Austin. They are a private non-profit organization that does not receive city funding or have any management by the city. They are a rescue-based zoo wherein their animals come from seizures and surrenders, etc. They really should change their name -- I think many visitors expect this to be a city zoo (setting their standards high, only to be inevitably disappointed). I am having a hard time rating this zoo. It is a non-profit that seeks to help animals and it seems like they don't receive funding to do so. At the same time, this place generally seemed a bit run down/dirty. Some of the animals seemed sad/stressed (saw a monkey and an ostrich with missing fur/feathers). Now, I know these are rescues so I can't confidently attribute that stress to conditions at the zoo -- possible that it's related to their past experiences or just general adjustment to a new place. Last but certainly not least, many of the enclosures are way too small for the animals they're housing. This is alarming. I know they're being rescued but perhaps there's a better home for them. The tickets are not exactly cheap. Although children under 2 are free, 2+ tickets are 16.95. That's only $3 less than adult pricing. I get that they don't get city funding but at those prices, I'd at least expect the grounds to look less run down than they did. Also, they don't give you a map nor did I see one posted anywhere (you have to rely on an online map on their website). Once again, they really could invest some revenue toward enhancing the visitor experience. Don't miss the train ride since there are some animals (like the porcupine) that can only be viewed from the train. The conductor (also ticket salesman) was super nice. He also very politely asked my husband to switch spots with my toddler (so she wouldn't be on the open side of the train car). I appreciated that greatly. The gift shop was surprisingly cute and had a bunch of great souvenir options. Beautiful peacocks roaming the grounds is a nice touch. Ultimately, a bit of an uncomfortable visit given the sad animals, inadequate enclosure size, lack of general upkeep, and relatively expensive tickets.

    Theo P.

    This zoo does their best. It's a rescue zoo that has very specific exhibits. Not a big zoo. You will probably spend 1 hour max here. Great job guys!

    White Tiger
    Roselia G.

    This is a good sized zoo, not big, but not small either, and under $20 per person. If you want to ride the train, that's an extra $5, and if you want to feed the giant tortoise's, it's like double the entry fee. We didn't pay that extra fee, but we did get to see them get fed. They're so cute! There are so many different animals here! Lions, both male and female, black bears, a Timber Wolf, a White Tiger, a cheetah, silver foxes, zebras, monkeys, macaws, alligators, giant tortoises, and a reptile room with snakes and lizards, just to name a few. You can take your own food and drinks, or purchase there. The gift shop has some really interesting jams and relishes, which we had to get! So glad we made it out here!

    Wendi K.

    This place is much too wholesome to be labeled as a "zoo". They are a non-profit rescue sanctuary with the most lovely staff in the world. The enclosures are for sure budget-friendly, but not shabby or sad at all. In terms of animals - I was completely surprised by the diversity - primates, canines, amphibians, farm animals, you name it! We had booked a capybara and it was as magical as I could have ever imagined. Shoutout to Tamra :) There are large areas with picnic tables for eating and hanging out, and of course, lots of family and children.

    Angelique G.

    We are not from Austin so I thought oh cool, a zoo! Which can be a little misleading. When you see zoo, you think of the big ones. Nonetheless, a neat walk through to see some animals. Bring lots of water when its hot!

    Kate C.

    Cute zoo with a lot of rescue animals. All the animals have backstories of how they came to the zoo. A lot of them were rescued from illegal breeding situations. Very friendly staff. Worth a trip outside the city!

    Karla D.

    My second visit to Austin Zoo was met with disappointment and it was purely weather-related. For six months we had a capybara encounter booked and it finally came...so did the torrential thunderstorm. Of course the weather didn't get crappy until just after we arrived. It's ok though because we were able to reschedule for September. I just love the capybaras so much, all I want to do is squeeze them. When you think of zoo, typically a large place comes to mind, right? This zoo is more like a wonderful sanctuary and living space for all the special animals from capybaras, peacocks, and lemurs, to goats, turtles, bears, parrots, and more. Entrance is $19 for non-member adults and it's absolutely worth it knowing that money goes right back into making the place run to keep the beautiful critters alive. They've got ample picnic area with tables for family lunches, tours, educational information, etc. Of course, exit(ing) through the gift store is a thing but, again, all the money goes back into the zoo. The gift shop carries all the trinkets you'd expect but all fairly priced. You can purchase drinks and snacks as well. The staff are amazing, they truly want to be there and truly love their work and the furry friends they take care of. I literally cannot wait to get back!

    Daily feeding schedule
    Kristen M.

    I wouldn't call it a zoo, more of a rescue. There were lots of animal enclosures but we didnt get to see many animals. Im sure that was due to the time if day- we got here about 12:45 pm and all the animals were in their covered enclosures where the fans were im sure. The staff was nice, we were able to see them feed the bears which was pretty neat. We had a good time overall but I was a little underwhelmed just having the expectation of a "zoo". I thin had I done a little more research my expectations would have been tempered. I would also recommend going in the morning so you can see all of the animals. We were able to see lots of turtles, a wolf, goats, snakes, a boar, zebra, alligators, and a bobcat. We did see LOTS of peacocks roaming around.

    Goat
    Kelsie D.

    Visited in the late summer during a vacation and was glad I did. Was neat to learn it was a non profit zoo and I enjoyed that each animal exhibit had information of where the animal was rescued from. They had a good variety of animals and seemed to be trying to give them what they needed. Some of the habitats seemed slightly lacking in either size or stimulation for the animals but I understand being a non profit they can only do so much and rely on donations. All the animals seemed healthy though thankfully! I would enjoy visiting again and the petting zoo was fun and a good space for children.

    They charged us way too much for what it was . Paid 58$ dollars for two adults a 4 year old and 1 year old ...Small rescue zoo , super crowded. Could barely see any of the animals and the ones we did see were sleeping . I will say it had decent shade in many areas , the goats were cute and the peacocks being free was cool . If the price was lower I'd have no complaints just don't come here expecting a typical zoo experience.

    Zoo visit on 11/04/2023
    Rebecca R.

    Just wanted to update my Yelp review of the Austin Zoo since my last review was over 6 years ago & I am happy to report that the Austin Zoo STILL gets 5++++++ stars in my book! My recent visit was on 11/04/2023 & I was lucky enough to get to see some "turtle action" (see video included in this review :))) and got to see the majestic gray wolves howling together (see video) they sounded so sad to me but I'm sure is just their way of communicating. I also wanted to share that there are goats that you can buy food to feed them & the kiddos just love getting to interact w/ them this way. And so much fun for us adults as well. A visit to the Austin Zoo is still a favorite of mine because it's big enough to spend a few hours enjoying yourself but not overly big that you're having to do lots of walking like some of the bigger zoos in other cities. I also love that each of the animals have a little bio posted about their story of how that animal made its way to the Austin Zoo. Hope this info helps! Till next time! Rebecca

    White Tiger
    Danielle F.

    I love this small, quaint zoo! They rescue their animals and give them a decent place to live. Some of the enclosures were so cool with pools and toys for the animals! My favorite animals I saw there were the white tiger, the lemurs, the lions, and the bears. We took the train ride and it had beautiful views of the surrounding greenery as well as more animals. I had a great few hours there!!

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    Austin Zoo Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Austin Zoo

    Do they have stroller/buggy rentals or do you have to bring your own?

    There are some to rent! If you bring your own keep in mind most of it is dirt paths!

    Can you actually enter the petting zoo area or you have to feed animals through the fence?

    You can only feed them through and or over the top of a fence, not inside.

    How much is admission?

    14.95-adults 13.95-Seniors & military & students 11.95 -12 and under… 

    How much time do people usually spend here?

    Maybe about 1h30 more or less. It will depend on how many kids are with you, if you are planning on feeding some animals, and if you were going to do the mini train ride. Hope this helps.

    View All 5 Questions

    Review Highlights - Austin Zoo

    It is also a rescue zoo which makes it stand out against others because their focus is to rehabilitate the animals.

    Mentioned in 40 reviews

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    Austin Nature & Science Center

    Austin Nature & Science Center

    4.5(150 reviews)
    9.8 mi78704 (South Austin)

    Great FREE option in Austin for kids!…read more One of the best parts is you can see an axolotl (two, actually) in their visitor center building. Then you can head over to the birds of prey, the reptile/fish building, and the animal enclosures. There's also a little lake and a large sand pit (dino dig). There's a cool room in the visitor center that has all sorts of nature items (bones, dead bugs, shells, rocks, etc.). You can bring in your own stuff to trade! Is it a huge amount of things to do/see? No but for a free attraction, it's pretty great. Parking is across the street -- lot is shared with Zilker Park and all the nearby attractions so it can get busy.

    I didn't know what to expect from this place. Some science centers are kids-only affairs (despite…read morenot being billed as such) while others have more to offer visitors of all ages. Fortunately, the Austin Nature & Science Center ended up falling in the latter category. The main building houses an assortment of bones, shells, and rocks (as well as an axolotl tank) and another building is home to various reptiles. Outside areas include a dino pit (where kids can dig for fossils) and several animal enclosures. What makes the latter unique is that the animals are rehab/rescue cases. They include everything from a bobcat to a porcupine to a 34-year-old one-eyed owl (!!) and more. Granted, Austin Nature & Science Center does offer more for a younger crowd, and it isn't particularly easy to get to by bus, but it's hard to argue with a chance to take in flora and fauna for free.

    Photos
    Austin Nature & Science Center - Red tail hawk

    Red tail hawk

    Austin Nature & Science Center
    Austin Nature & Science Center

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    Capital of Texas Zoo - Rust in one of the many rusting bird cages.

    Capital of Texas Zoo

    3.7(184 reviews)
    28.7 mi

    The only zoo here in Austin. has a cappaberra and easy for me (78) to get around. Family friendlyread more

    TLDR: Small private zoo that's in obvious need of some repairs/upgrades (and has received safety…read morecitations in the past) but nonetheless has a rustic charm. I'd still remain vigilant and aware of surroundings as a result. No handwashing station at the petting zoo so make sure you either walk your kids to the nearby restroom or bring soap sheets (more below). Open daily including holidays (365 days a year) 9-5. They offer a variety of animal encounters for a fee. CONDITIONS: This small private zoo is definitely a bit run down and unkempt. The ramp from the office/reception area to the zoo had broken wooden boards that seemed like they were heading toward collapse. Felt a bit nervous pushing our stroller wagon over it. The owner should definitely address that. I got the vibe that the owner does really care about the animals but some of the cages did seem too small. The owner also told us he wanted to construct a train (which is always nice) but I think fixing up the zoo/improving the habitats should be a priority. Some of the exhibits seemed confusing -- there was a sign for a bear but the area seemed overgrown and inaccessible. I don't know if the exhibit was just removed or what. As far as the provenance for the animals -- I think some are rescues but not all. They are also a breeding facility for endangered animals. CITATION HISTORY: I did a little bit of digging and it turns out the zoo has received citations in the past. In 2022, the USDA issued an official warning to the zoo regarding inadequate enclosure fencing. I was able to track down the official document in APHIS. I also found a reference to an official warning in 2013 that noted inadequate veterinary care for underweight animals, inappropriate feed/diet, repeated problems maintaining facilities in good repair, sanitation/cleanliness problems, and inadequate pest control (resulting in a financial penalty). I was not able to track down the official document for this, only a senate filing (regarding an accreditation association) that referenced the warning. In theory, they could have pulled it from PETA, who has published a 10-page "fact sheet" online that details countless other USDA citations and claims that in 2022, a dog broke into an enclosure and killed 4 cavies and 1 muntjac (to simplify, rodents and deer). I have not been able to verify the dog attack claims and don't have the time to look into the other alleged citations. Ultimately, PETA is a special interest group with a dubious record. PETTING ZOO/SAFETY: It's not the sort where you can go inside but you can feed the animals through the fence. There is no handwashing station but the restroom isn't that far. Make sure you take your kids to wash their hands right after. Watch smaller kids carefully to ensure they're not putting their hands in their mouth while/after interacting with the animals. You can use hand sanitizer immediately after but you really should wash their hands ASAP. I believe hand sanitizer can kill e.coli but will not kill cryptosporidium (parasite that can be carried by farm animals). You can buy soap sheets that are good on the go (Fomin is the brand I have, available on Amazon). You just pour water and the sheet becomes soapy and then you rinse. There was some charm here -- for instance, the farm animal area was chaotic in an amusing way -- pigs and chickens and peacocks and little prairie dogs trying to steal food -- it was cute pandemonium. The talking macaws were fun and the hippo put on a show for us -- opening his huge maw. Zoo experiences are a bit subjective in that sense, depending on how the animals are feeling when you arrive. Mornings seem to be best as it's cooler. Keep your expectations low -- it's a place to see animals and entertain your kids for an hour or so. Just remain vigilant and keep an eye on surroundings for safety reasons. They also offer a variety of animal encounters which we did not partake in. Ultimately, I do hope that they take any USDA citations seriously and allocate sufficient capital to improve/fix their facility.

    Photos
    Capital of Texas Zoo - Breaker panel left open on the public trail.

    Breaker panel left open on the public trail.

    Capital of Texas Zoo - Rotting bench

    Rotting bench

    Capital of Texas Zoo - Just left right out right near the public area next to enclosures.

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    Just left right out right near the public area next to enclosures.

    Pioneer Farms - Pumpkin Display

    Pioneer Farms

    3.5(121 reviews)
    18.2 mi

    We came here for Pumpkin Nights, and it was a fantastic walkthrough Halloween light show. There…read morewere different themed exhibits including Harry Potter, Forbidden City, Dia de los Muertos, pirates, and coral reef. The visuals were beautiful with themed music and the occasional smells that fit well with the exhibits. We were really impressed by how long it was. It was about a one mile walk on a dirt trail, and it took us over an hour to go through at a leisurely pace and take some pictures. Our shoes got extremely dusty, so make sure to wear shoes that you can wipe off afterwards. We were thrilled to see seesaws at one point on the trail. There were so many kids here, but I think it's enjoyable for all ages. I would even take my parents here. They advertise weekday night tickets on their website as $22, but after all the fees, it was $28.24 per ticket for a Tuesday night. It was surprisingly worth it though. I just wish they were more transparent in their fees. I am really glad we didn't come on a weekend because it would have been even more crowded. Parking was an additional $10 in a dirt lot. There were some vendors with extremely overpriced food. My friend got a cute ghost T-shirt from their official merch store for $25, which was surprisingly reasonable.

    We have been here for Pumpkin Nights twice now and it has been an incredible sensory experience…read moreboth times, without feeling too repetitive. It was literally pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere as we walked through different themed exhibits put together with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. The music, lights and smoke gave it all a fun, spooky vibe. Our favorites were the Ocean theme, the neon lights made it feel surreal! The fire show at the end of the walk was a cool highlight too. We accidentally booked the wrong date while clicking through the links on the phone and had to pay an additional $5 per ticket to change it through the online account later. That was a bummer since it was an honest mistake but the customer service is pretty much non-existent and send canned responses to emails. Parking is an additional $10 at the venue.

    Photos
    Pioneer Farms - Pumpkin Display

    Pumpkin Display

    Pioneer Farms - Pumpkin patch

    Pumpkin patch

    Pioneer Farms - Entrance from Parking Lot

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    Entrance from Parking Lot

    Austin Zoo - zoos - Updated September 2026

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