The Exotic Resort Zoo is located in Johnson City, Texas, about a 1-hour drive west of Austin. You can take US-290 W for most of the journey. It's a popular stop on Texas Hill Country road trips.

Yes, the zoo is generally well-signposted along the main roads in Johnson City. GPS navigation is also reliable for reaching the location.

There is a parking lot available for visitors. If you opt for the self-drive safari, you'll park your vehicle there before entering the drive-thru area.

Yes, it's feasible as a day trip from Dallas, though it's a longer drive (around 3.5 hours). Many visitors combine it with other Hill Country attractions.

Public transportation options directly to the zoo are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle, making it ideal for road trips.

Admission prices can vary, but typically adults are around $20. Animal feed buckets cost extra, usually around $8. Checking in on Yelp can sometimes offer discounts.

You can choose between a drive-thru safari in your own vehicle, a guided tractor tram tour, or private tours. The guided tour is highly recommended by many visitors. +1

While not always mandatory, booking in advance or arriving early is recommended, especially for guided tours, as they can fill up.

Some visitors have mentioned checking in on Yelp for discounts, and group rates might be available. It's always worth checking their official website or social media for current promotions.

General admission typically includes access to the zoo grounds and the petting zoo area. The drive-thru or guided tractor tours and animal feed are usually additional costs.

The zoo boasts over 700 animals from 45+ species, including zebras, camels, llamas, kangaroos, bison, ostriches, lemurs, and more. +2

Yes, feeding the animals is a highlight! You can purchase feed buckets to give to animals like camels, llamas, and goats during the tours or in the petting zoo. +1

Most visitors spend around 2 hours at the zoo, depending on the tour option chosen and how much time is spent interacting with the animals.

Absolutely! The zoo is very family-friendly, with many opportunities for kids to interact with and feed the animals. The tractor tours are a hit with toddlers and young children.

The drive-thru allows you to explore in your own car, while the guided tractor tour takes you on a tram with a guide who provides information and facilitates feeding. The guided tour is often preferred to avoid vehicle damage. +1

Yes, there is a gift shop that often sells snacks and drinks. Some visitors bring their own food to enjoy in designated areas.

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed, especially for picnics. There are pavilions available for visitors to use.

Johnson City offers various local eateries, from casual cafes to barbecue joints, if you prefer to dine outside the zoo.

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, the gift shop typically offers snacks and beverages for purchase.

Snack options in the gift shop are usually limited. It's advisable to check in advance or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.

Anywhere you can get close to the animals! The guided tractor tours offer unique angles, and the petting zoo provides great close-ups. +1

Yes, absolutely! Guides often pause to allow for photos, and the close proximity to animals makes for fantastic shots. +1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you have a zoom lens, it can be helpful for capturing animals further away, but it's not essential for the close encounters.

Generally, photography is encouraged. However, always be mindful of animal welfare and avoid using flash photography directly at sensitive animals.

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting, while mornings can offer softer light and potentially more active animals.