Fort Worth Zoo - Barely Awake
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Fort Worth Zoo

4.6
·15k reviews·Fort Worth, United States

Texas's top-rated zoo, home to 7,000 animals in stunning, naturalistic habitats. Features interactive exhibits, a splash park, and educational fun for...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better animal viewing

CrowdLow
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Fort Worth Zoo - Barely Awake

Fort Worth Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better animal viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Texas's top-rated zoo, home to 7,000 animals in stunning, naturalistic habitats. Features interactive exhibits, a splash park, and educational fun for all ages.

4.6
(15k reviews)

"Ranked the No. 1 zoo in North America, it's a must-visit for animal lovers and families alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Membership Perks

Annual memberships offer great value, including free parking and early access. :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Many paths are shaded. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Springs

Elephant Springs

African Savanna

Witness majestic elephants in a thoughtfully designed, expansive habitat. Get surprisingly close to these gentle giants.

InstagramReddit
Predators of Asia & Africa

Predators of Asia & Africa

New Big Cat Habitat

Explore the thrilling new habitat for big cats, offering impressive views of lions, tigers, and other powerful predators.

Instagram
Safari Splash

Safari Splash

Water Play Area

Cool off on a hot Texas day at this fun splash park featuring slides, water cannons, and animal-themed water features.

InstagramReddit
Gorilla Exhibit

Gorilla Exhibit

Museum of Living Art (MOLA)

Observe gorillas in their naturalistic habitat, often engaging in playful interactions that delight visitors.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Membership Magic

Consider an annual membership! Many visitors find it pays for itself after just a few visits, offering free parking and exclusive perks like early access on certain days. It's a smart way to save money if you plan to visit multiple times a year. TikTok+1

Beat the Crowds

Weekdays, especially mornings, are your best bet for a less crowded experience. Wednesdays are half-price admission days, which is a great deal but can lead to significant crowds, particularly with school groups. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better animal viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesdays
Why
Half-price admission
Crowd
High
When
Summer evenings (special events)
Why
Cooler temperatures, unique events
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Voted the best zoo in Texas, the Fort Worth Zoo has so much to offer! Here are some hacks to use the next time you visit: • An annual membership is only $70, meaning if you visit four times a year it is cheaper than getting a ticket every time. You also get free parking! (Usually $5 a visit) • During the summer the zoo has Member Mondays where members get in an hour earlier than the public! You ge...
@fwmom.co
240 likes • 11.1K views

🎯 Membership Perks

Annual memberships offer great value, including free parking and early access. TikTok+1 :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Many paths are shaded. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

when the gorillas play fight exactly how your own kids do at home @fortworthzoo #fortworthzoo #fortworth #gorillasoftiktok #gorillaexhibit
@adrianna.pruitt0407
14 likes • 162 views
Shocking moment two keepers where left in an enclosure with Elmo a male silverback at the fort worth zoo - 📸 Source: @ ben306069 on TikTok All credit are reserved for their respective Owners - ❌Remove/recognition👉 @ fixposts - - - - #wildglobe#wildlife_shots#wildlifefreak#wildlife_perfection#wildlifefestival#wildlifebiologist#wildplanet#wildlifelover#gorillaconservation#wildlifeplanet#wildme#wil...
gorillasaw
324K likes • 22.4M views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring your own water bottles or purchase drinks. Misters are available in some areas to help beat the heat. Reddit :droplet:

📸 Feed the Giraffes

A popular interactive experience where you can feed giraffes. Check availability and pricing. TikTok :camerawithflash:

📍Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110 @fortworthzoo 🐘The Fort Worth Zoo is home to 7,000 native and exotic animals. In 2020 it was named the number one Zoo in America by a reader’s choice poll. Few tips: ⌚️Plan your visit on a less crowded day like a weekday morning. The zoo is huge. So plan for 3-4 hours. 👶Bring lighter stroller for kids. It will be easier to navigate ...
dallas_asian_foodie
584 likes • 12.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Membership Perks

Annual memberships offer great value, including free parking and early access. TikTok+1 :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Many paths are shaded. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring your own water bottles or purchase drinks. Misters are available in some areas to help beat the heat. Reddit :droplet:

📸 Feed the Giraffes

A popular interactive experience where you can feed giraffes. Check availability and pricing. TikTok :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking Convenience

Parking is available for a fee ($5). Arriving early on weekends helps secure a closer spot. Reddit :car:

🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks

You're allowed to bring your own food and drinks, which can save money. TikTok :apple:

👶 Stroller Friendly

Strollers are permitted, making it easier for families with young children to navigate the zoo. TikTok :baby_bottle:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Fort Worth Zoo for its well-maintained exhibits, diverse animal collection, and thoughtful habitat designs, particularly the Elephant Springs. While the zoo is highly recommended for families and animal lovers, some note the need for more seating in certain areas and occasional issues with staff attitude at specific concessions. Overall, it's considered one of the best zoos in Texas and the US.

"Visited this zoo today as part of a big group including myself, my wife and daughter along with our friends and their children. This place is huge, boasting a wide variety of land, sea and flying animals. It took us almost 4 hours to see everything and it was worth it for the price we paid.

We arrived one hour after the opening on a Saturday and the parking situation was good. The parking fee was not bad ($5) and we were able to park not too far from the entrance.

Once we got inside, the signs were easy to follow. The surroundings were clean and this zoo did a good job of taking care of the animals based on what we saw. There were plenty of space for them to roam. It was a good learning experience for our kids and us parents.

This is only the second zoo we ever been to in Texas. The other one is in San Antonio. We love both."

Enrico Aberin

"The zoo experience was amazing. Plenty of parking, only $5 each car. If you get your tickets in advance online you can walk right up to the turnstile to get in. The park is well laid out and the exhibits are very nice with a lot of animals to look at.
Restrooms are well placed throughout the park. I only have two negatives to mention. There needs to be more benches throughout the African area. I have a physical disability that requires me to sit frequently. I ended up having to sit on the floor after walking up a steep hill. And the older gentleman working at the ice cream parlor was outright rude. Several people walked out without anything due to his attitude. We still got our ice cream and the young lady at the register was very pleasant and had great customer service and had a positive attitude. Other than that it was a great experience the food from pizza Hut and shaved ice were really good. Stopped for a pickle and some popcorn from one of the many snack shops, and took a ride on the train. The customer service was excellent at each of these locations which made my wonderful day just that much better."

Eve Johnson

"One of the better zoos I’ve visited in Texas! The Fort Worth Zoo has a great layout, a wide range of animals, and some standout exhibits—especially the elephant exhibit, which is one of the most thoughtfully designed I’ve seen. You can get surprisingly close, and the space they have to roam is impressive.

I went on a Wednesday, which is Half-Price Day—only $10 for adults, which is a great value. Just keep in mind, this also means the zoo is packed with school field trips. There were dozens of school buses and crowds of kids throughout the park. It’s still doable, but if you're looking for a quiet experience, you might want to choose a different day.

There’s a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The paths are shaded in many areas, and there are plenty of places to sit, grab drinks, or stop for snacks. They also have misters set up in a few places, which was a nice touch in the heat.

Parking is $5 and there’s a large lot with plenty of space, even on busy days. Entry was smooth and well organized, and the staff were friendly.

Overall, Fort Worth Zoo is worth a visit, especially for families or animal lovers. Just time your visit carefully if you want to avoid big crowds."

Blayz Brooks

What People Like

Impressive animal habitats
Clean and well-maintained
Great for families

What People Dislike

Limited seating in some areas
Occasional rude staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Fort Worth Zoo is located at 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for a fee. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules if you plan to use them. Instagram

Yes, there is a large parking lot available for visitors. The parking fee is typically $5 per car. Arriving early, especially on weekends, can help you secure a spot closer to the entrance. InstagramReddit

You can use GPS navigation to 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110. The zoo is well-signposted once you are in the vicinity. TikTok

While specific routes can change, it's advisable to check the Trinity Metro website for the most current bus routes and schedules that serve the Fort Worth Zoo area. TikTok

The Fort Worth Zoo's general information phone number is (817) 759-7555. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is typically around $10-$20 for adults and slightly less for children. Wednesdays offer half-price admission, making it a popular but crowded day. Purchasing tickets online in advance can streamline your entry. TikTokReddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase your Fort Worth Zoo tickets online in advance. This often allows you to skip the ticket lines and head straight to the turnstiles. Reddit

Wednesdays offer half-price admission, but expect larger crowds. Memberships can also be a cost-effective option if you plan multiple visits. Keep an eye out for potential deals through local partnerships or promotions. TikTokReddit

The zoo's operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Fort Worth Zoo website for the most up-to-date hours for your planned visit date. Typically, they open around 9 AM or 10 AM and close in the late afternoon. TikTok

Yes, the Fort Worth Zoo offers an annual membership program. Many visitors find it to be a great value, as it often includes free parking and other benefits, making it cheaper than multiple individual visits. TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive Elephant Springs habitat, the new Predators of Asia & Africa exhibit for big cats, and the fun Safari Splash water play area. The gorilla exhibit is also a popular spot. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, you can feed the giraffes for an additional fee. This is a very popular interactive experience. TikTok

Absolutely! Strollers are permitted throughout the zoo, making it convenient for families with young children. TikTok

Yes, there are benches and seating areas throughout the zoo, though some visitors note a need for more seating in certain areas like the African exhibit. Reddit

Beyond the animal exhibits, kids can enjoy the Safari Splash water park, a carousel, and a petting farm. The zoo also offers educational programs and camps. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the zoo, which can be a great way to save money. TikTok

The zoo offers various dining options, including Pizza Hut, snack shops selling popcorn and shaved ice, and other concessions. Reddit

While there are several concession stands and eateries, the zoo doesn't have a single large sit-down restaurant. You can find various food options throughout the park. Reddit

The Fort Worth Zoo hosts private events, including weddings and parties. You can inquire about their event packages and pricing through their website. TikTok+1

The Beastro is an event hosted at the Fort Worth Zoo, often featuring food, drinks, and entertainment, making it a popular date night or adult-focused outing. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Elephant Springs habitat offers stunning backdrops, as do the newly renovated big cat enclosures. The giraffe feeding area and the various themed zones provide unique photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them. TikTok

While personal photography is encouraged, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's policies if you plan on professional shoots. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for animal photography, with softer light and potentially more active animals. Instagram

Yes, taking photos of your children enjoying their visit is a wonderful way to capture memories. Ensure you are respectful of other visitors' privacy. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Fort Worth Zoo is a top-tier destination for families. Kids will be thrilled by the diverse animal exhibits, the interactive giraffe feeding, and the exciting Safari Splash water park. TikTokInstagram The zoo is stroller-friendly, and bringing your own snacks and drinks is permitted, making it easier to manage the needs of young children. TikTok Consider a membership for frequent visits, as it offers great value and perks like free parking. TikTok+1

Look for opportunities like the carousel and petting farm to add extra fun. The educational signage at each exhibit also provides a great learning opportunity for curious minds. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore without rushing. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the Fort Worth Zoo offers several ways to save. Wednesdays are half-price admission days, making it a fantastic deal, though be prepared for larger crowds. TikTokReddit Bringing your own food and drinks is allowed, which can significantly cut down on expenses during your visit. TikTok If you plan on visiting more than a couple of times a year, purchasing an annual membership can be more cost-effective than buying individual tickets, often including free parking. TikTok+1

Look for promotional codes or deals that might be available through local partnerships or specific retailers. While parking has a fee, it's generally reasonable. Reddit

💑 Couples & Date Nights

The Fort Worth Zoo offers a charming setting for a date. Consider attending special adults-only events like the Beastro, which often feature food, drinks, and entertainment, providing a unique evening out. TikTok Exploring the diverse animal exhibits together, especially the beautifully designed Elephant Springs or the new Predators of Asia & Africa habitats, can be a romantic and engaging experience. Instagram+1 The zoo's atmosphere, particularly during the late afternoon or during special evening events, can be quite enchanting. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Fort Worth Zoo: A Visitor's Guide

The Fort Worth Zoo is a sprawling attraction, so comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. Visitors consistently recommend wearing athletic shoes or other comfortable walking shoes, as you'll cover a lot of ground exploring the diverse habitats. Reddit Many paths are shaded, offering some respite from the Texas sun, but it's still wise to be prepared for warm weather. Reddit

Getting around is made easier with clear signage and a well-organized layout. For families, strollers are permitted, and the zoo offers a Safari Splash water play area, perfect for cooling off on hot days. TikTokInstagram Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to bypass potential ticket lines and head straight to the entrance. Reddit

Membership is a popular strategy for frequent visitors, often covering the cost of admission and parking after just a few trips, plus offering perks like early access on select days. TikTok+1 This can be a significant saving, especially if you plan on visiting multiple times throughout the year.

Family Fun at the Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide array of attractions that cater to all ages. Kids will love the interactive elements like feeding the giraffes, a truly memorable experience. TikTok The Safari Splash water park is a huge hit during warmer months, providing a fun way for children to cool down and burn off energy after exploring the animal exhibits. TikTokInstagram

For parents, the zoo is generally stroller-friendly, making it easier to navigate with little ones. TikTok Many visitors also appreciate that outside food and drinks are allowed, which can be a lifesaver for keeping picky eaters happy and managing budgets. TikTok Consider a zoo membership if you live locally or plan to visit frequently; it often includes perks like free parking and can make multiple trips more economical. TikTok+1

Beyond the animals, the zoo offers a carousel and a petting farm, adding to the variety of activities available. Instagram The informative signs at each exhibit provide educational insights into the animals' origins and behaviors, making it a fun and enriching learning experience for the whole family. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from Fort Worth Zoo Goers

To make the most of your Fort Worth Zoo experience, timing is key. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for viewing animals. Instagram While Wednesdays offer half-price admission, be prepared for significant crowds, especially from school field trips. Reddit If you're looking for a quieter visit, aim for a weekday morning. Instagram

Memberships are frequently highlighted as a smart investment for locals or frequent visitors, often covering the cost of admission and parking after just a few visits, and sometimes including benefits like early access. TikTok+1 This can significantly reduce the overall cost of your visits. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there is a considerable amount of walking involved. Reddit

Don't forget to bring your own water bottles and snacks, as outside food and drinks are permitted. TikTok This not only helps you stay hydrated and fueled but also saves money. Keep an eye out for interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes, which is a popular activity for all ages. TikTok

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