Head south of downtown Dallas to Marsalis Park to explore the Dallas Zoo, the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas. Encompassing 106 acres, this non-profit park hosts over 2,000 animals across 406 species. Your journey is split into two major regions accessed via a connecting tunnel under Clarendon Drive: ZooNorth and the Wilds of Africa.
In ZooNorth, the zoo's original and oldest section, you can discover primate habitats, invertebrate displays at BUG U!, interactive fun at the Lacerte Family Children's Zoo, and Sumatran and Malayan tigers inside the ExxonMobil Endangered Tiger Habitat. Crossing over to the Wilds of Africa, you will encounter diverse landscapes showcasing gorillas, African penguins, Nile crocodiles, and okapi—a species the zoo is famous for breeding and researching. Be sure not to miss the 11-acre Giants of the Savanna expansion, where you can view African bush elephants, reticulated giraffes, lions, and cheetahs.
Whether you are observing break-dancing gorillas at the Gorilla Research Station or taking in free-flight bird shows, a visit offers rich, accredited wildlife conservation experiences. You can also download the free Dallas Zoo iPhone app in English or Spanish for turn-by-turn navigation and map assistance.
What to see at Dallas Zoo
- Observe western gorillas, African bush elephants, and reticulated giraffes inside the 11-acre Giants of the Savanna and Wilds of Africa exhibits.
- Explore ZooNorth to see Sumatran and Malayan tigers from Thai pole house-style viewing stations at the ExxonMobil Endangered Tiger Habitat.
- Visit the Lacerte Family Children's Zoo featuring a petting zoo, pony rides, Nature Exchange, and a splashable artificial creek.
- Learn about delicate ecosystems at the Pierre A. Fontaine Bird & Reptile Building and view invertebrates up close at BUG U!
- Watch African penguins swim and walk from above- and underwater viewing areas at Penguin Cove.
Visiting tips
Download the free official Dallas Zoo iPhone app available in English and Spanish to easily access zoo maps, schedule details, and directional assistance during your visit.
How long: 3-4 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Dallas Zoo is easy to reach on Dallas’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Dallas Museum of Art and Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Dallas travel guide.
See the full Dallas travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.