Last Updated on March 11, 2026
The Houston Zoo welcomes 2 million visitors annually making it the second most visited Zoo in the US, only behind the San Diego Zoo. Located in the Museum District, the Houston Zoo covers over 55 acres and houses some 6000 plus animals, ranging from asian elepahnts to chilean flamingos. The zoo is by no means hard to navigate, but there are a few things to know before you plan your visit.
Location of the Houston Zoo
As said above the Houston Zoo is located in the Museum District, specifically in Herman Park. If you’re staying in Downtown Houston this will be an easy hop for you. If you’re staying elsewhere plan for at least a 30 min drive. Houston is extremely car dependent and poorly laid out due to lack of zoning laws, so be prepared for traffic at all times of day.
Not to worry! There are plenty other sites to see nearby including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, so you can plan a whole day.
Parking at the Houston Zoo
The zoo does not have its own dedicated parking garage. There are multiple surface parking lots that lead up to the zoo in Hermann Park that are free. That being said, on a weekend these can easily be full by noon. There are some free lots farther out and there is a paid garage by the science museum as well. All of those lots are within a 15 min walk to the zoo entrance.
For the best information check the parking information page on the Houston Zoo website.
Tickets and Admission
At the time of publication tickets to the Houston Zoo are available online only. You must pick a reservation time on your desired day and can enter anytime after your time slot. Prices vary with higher admission on weekends.
The Houston Zoo offers discount for military veterans on up to two adult and three child tickets. They must be purchased online ahead of time and proof of military service is required.
The Houston Zoo also offers discounts to Houston area college students, children, seniors, and others. For the most up to date information check the discount section of the Houston Zoo website.
Like many others, the Houston Zoo offers a variety of memberships that come with free admission throughout the year.
Admission can also be purchased as part of the CityPass.
The Animals at the Houston Zoo
Of course the main attraction of any zoo is the animals and the Houston Zoo is no different. The Houston Zoo places are special emphasis on conservation, (their slogan is See Them. Save Them.) and the exhibits are arranged by habitat in the wild. The zoo is arranged so it’s relatively easy to see all the animals without having to backtrack or take a strange route.
When you first walk in the entrance, there is a sea lion pool in right that begins the exhibit on the Galápagos Islands. You will also see almost a dozen giant tortoises, along with an underwater viewing tunnel that the sea lions swim over.
After that you can walkthrough Texas wetlands and see gators and bald eagles. There is an African Savannah with lions. There is also quite large elephant enclosure that is unique among zoos. If you or your child love to see different animals you will definitely be pleased at the variety the Houston Zoo offers to visitors.
Food and Drink at the Houston Zoo
Through our zoo there are multiple places to get something to eat or drink. The options range from casual snack stands to sit down eateries. There are also many drink options with local Saint Arnold’s brewing featured at each location we saw.
If you would like an adult beverage you can get it in a souvenir cup featuring on of the animals. Then if you go back for another you can get a refill at a slight discount or try for a different animal. I got flamingo and was able to drink my beer while admiring them.
Like any park or attraction these days prices were higher than your average bar or neighborhood restaurant. They were less than what I would call stadium pricing though. So overall it wasn’t too bad and I didn’t feel like I was being raked over coals like at a football game. My souvenir beer was $12 with $10 refills, and I got a souvenir frozen margarita that was $14 with $12 refills. While we didn’t get any food while at the Houston Zoo, I saw multiple snack options for $10 and under.
For the most up to date dining options check out the Houston Zoo website.
Is the Houston Zoo Worth It?
The Houston Zoo is definitely worth your time. Whether you are visiting Houston (why I’m not sure) or live in the area. The Houston Zoo is very well kept, reasonably priced, and family friendly. Things to remember. Tickets are only sold online and you need to pick a reservation time. Additionally, while there is free parking it can fill up fast. So just be sure to plan your day ahead and you will have a great time!
With all the other sites in the area you can make a whole day exploring sightseeing!
