Plan your visit to Austin Zoo, where every visit promises a one-of-a-kind experience immersed in joy, learning, and meaningful connections with our animal residents. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Hill Country, Austin Zoo stands out as a beacon of compassion and care. Our mission is simple yet profound: to assist animals in need through rescue, conservation, and education. Unlike conventional zoos, each of our animal inhabitants has a unique story to share, reflecting our unwavering dedication to their welfare. As a private, non-profit institution, we’re deeply committed to serving our community. Through an array of family-friendly events, animal rescue initiatives, and educational programs tailored for all ages, we strive to foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. With over 300 animals representing over 100 different species, Austin Zoo offers endless opportunities for discovery and connection. Over 237,000 individuals visit Austin Zoo annually, including tens of thousands of students and teachers visiting on field trips. 

Our Mission:The mission of Austin Zoo is to assist animals in need through rescue, conservation, and education.

Plan Your Visit:

Visitors can immerse themselves in the captivating world of wildlife through intimate zookeeper chats, gaining insightful knowledge about the zoo's diverse inhabitants. Exploring the meticulously crafted habitats offers glimpses into the lives of rescued animals, fostering appreciation for their resilience and care. For a whimsical journey, hop aboard the train for an engaging trip through the scenic surroundings.

• Daily Zookeeper Chats: Join our dedicated zookeepers as they share fascinating insights and heartwarming tales from the frontlines of animal care. Chats are held 3-4 times a day at one of our animal habitats, see our website for the schedule.
• Animal Encounters: Want an up-close-and-personal animal encounter? We offer private experiences for small groups, along with a zoo staff member from the education department who will introduce you to ambassador animals, tell you about their species, and answer questions. It's a great learning experience, and perfect for families! Currently we are featuring Capybara and Galapagos Tortoise in our private encounters.
• Train Ride around the zoo grounds: Hop aboard our train when you visit our Zoo! Our train operates until 4:00pm on week days and 5:00pm on weekends.
• Picnic Grove: Feel free to bring your own food and drinks for the day, or there are beverages and snacks available for purchase in vending machines, in the Gift Shop or at the train depot. Austin Zoo's Picnic Grove offers visitors the option to indulge in a leisurely picnic to enhance the day's enjoyment.

Check our calendar to align your visit with an event for a tailored experience, enriching the adventure with specialized programs and festivities. With its commitment to conservation and education, Austin Zoo promises a fulfilling escapade brimming with discovery and wonder. Visit AustinZoo.org for more information to plan your visit. 

2024 Events Calendar:

January 26th, 10am-11am – Zoo Tots - What If You Had Animal Teeth?

January 29th – Summer Camp Registration opens for Zoo Members

Feb 3rd, 1pm – Black Bears Korben, Tilly & Ruby's 10th Birthday Party

February 4th, 10:30am-11:30am – Family Nature Experience – Lone Star Roundup

February 5th – Summer Camp Registration opens to Non-members

February 10th, 10am-4pm - Saturday Camp – How Do You Zoo?

February 15th – Homeschool Nature Series – Animal Behavior

February 16th – School Holiday Camp – Where the Wild Things Are

February 23rd – Zoo Tots - What If You Had Animal Hair?

February 24th – Saturday Camp – Cold Weather Critters

March 3rd – Family Nature Experience – Hungry, Hungry Critters

March 9th – 17th – Spring Break

March 21st – Homeschool Nature Series – Who's Buggin' Me?

March 29th – School Holiday Camp – The Land Before Time

March 30th – Easter Egg Hunt

April 7th – Family Nature Series – The Sound of Nature

April 8th – Total Solar Eclipse Event

April 13th – Saturday Camp – Powerful Pollinators

April 18th – Homeschool Nature Series – Dissection Lab

April 27th – Saturday Camp – Catch me If You Can!

May 11 - Wine Dinner

June 3rd – Summer Camp Starts

June 22nd – White Tiger Zulema’s 5th Birthday

August 9th – Summer Camp Ends

August 26th – Boo at the Zoo Tickets on Sale to Zoo Members

September 2nd – Boo at the Zoo Tickets on Sale to Non-members

September 7th – Austin Zoo Revue Gala

September 27th – Homeschool Day – Education Department

September (Date TBD) – Saturday Camp – Education Department

September 21st – Cougars Roxy, Willow & Oliver's 9th Birthday Party

October 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 25th, and 26th – Boo at the Zoo Nights

October (Date TBD) – Saturday Camp – Education Department

October (Date TBD) – Homeschool Nature Series – Education Department

October (Date TBD) – Saturday Camp – Education Department

November (Date TBD) – Wine Dinner

November (Date TBD) – Family Nature Experience – Education Department

November (Date TBD) – Saturday Camp – Education Department

November (Date TBD) – Homeschool Nature Series – Education Department

December 27th – Lions Sango and Jelani’s 11th Birthday Party