
“The Dallas Zoo is an integral part of the cultural fabric of our city, providing educational opportunities for our citizens and showcasing the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. It is a true gem in our community.”
Tom Leppert, former Dallas Mayor
Profile Information:
- Address: 650 S R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TX 75203 (Map)
- Phone Number: (469) 554-7500
- Email Address: info@dallaszoo.com
- Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (hours may vary on holidays)
- Date Founded: 1888
- Accreditation: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
- Number of Animals: Over 2,000
- Number of Species: More than 400
- Park Size: 106 acres
- Website Link: www.dallaszoo.com
Brief History:
The Dallas Zoo has a rich history that dates back to 1888 when it was founded as the first zoo in the state of Texas, making it the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas. Originally located in City Park, the zoo started with just two deer and two mountain lions, but over the years, it has grown to become one of the top attractions in Dallas.
In 1912, the zoo moved to its current location in Marsalis Park, where it has grown and evolved over the years. One of the most significant events in the zoo’s history occurred in the 1950s when the zoo’s management began to focus on conservation and education.
Since then, the Dallas Zoo has become a leader in animal conservation and research, and it has expanded to become one of the largest and most visited zoos in the country. Today, the zoo spans over 106 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals representing over 400 species, and it attracts millions of visitors every year.
The Dallas Zoo is committed to providing an excellent experience for visitors while also advancing animal welfare, conservation, and education. It has a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to care for the animals and ensure that the zoo continues to be a leader in the field of wildlife conservation.
Quick Facts:
- The Dallas Zoo is home to one of the largest African elephant habitats in the country.
- The zoo offers a variety of experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours, overnight safaris, and animal encounters.
- The zoo has a wildlife rehabilitation center that cares for injured and orphaned animals.
- The zoo is committed to conservation efforts and supports several programs around the world.
- The zoo has a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital that provides medical care to the animals.
- The zoo is open year-round, so you can visit any time of the year.
- The zoo has several dining options, including a café and a food truck park.
- The zoo has won numerous awards for its animal care and conservation efforts.
- The zoo offers free admission to all active-duty military personnel and their families on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day.
- The zoo hosts several events throughout the year, including a Halloween-themed event and a holiday lights display.
Fun Facts:
- The Dallas Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to successfully breed a cheetah via in vitro fertilization.
- The zoo has a herd of giraffes that you can feed by hand.
- The zoo’s chimpanzee exhibit is the largest in the United States.
- The zoo has a children’s zoo where kids can interact with animals and learn about conservation.
- The zoo had a monorail that took visitors on a tour of the park, giving them a bird’s-eye view of the animals.
- The zoo has a reptile and amphibian house with over 60 species of snakes, lizards, frogs, and salamanders.
- The zoo’s flamingo habitat is home to over 100 flamingos.
- The zoo has a penguin exhibit where you can watch these playful birds swim and play.
- The zoo has a hippopotamus exhibit where visitors can watch these massive animals swim and play.
Fun Facts for Kids:
- The Dallas Zoo has a special area just for kids called the Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari.
- The zoo’s African Savanna exhibit is home to several different species, including zebras, giraffes, and ostriches.
- The zoo’s bug exhibit lets you get up close and personal with some creepy-crawlies.
- Kids can visit the Dallas Zoo’s petting zoo where they can pet and feed goats, sheep, and other farm animals.
- The zoo’s Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park is home to over 5,000 aquatic animals and plants.
- The zoo has a play area called the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo where kids can climb, crawl, and explore.
- The zoo has a dinosaur exhibit where kids can see life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.
- The zoo’s otter exhibit lets you watch these playful animals swim and play.
- The zoo has a bird exhibit where you can see birds from all around the world, including parrots and penguins.
- The zoo has a train that takes visitors on a tour of the park, making stops at different exhibits.