Zoo/Aquarium

Houston Zoo

A nonprofit zoo founded in 1922, reached on foot through Hermann Park, where families may bring their own food and coolers and can rent a double stroller or a wagon just inside the entrance.

Typical visit
Ages
Booking
Booking
Book online before you go: tickets are not sold at the Zoo, and there are no refunds or exchanges.
Child tickets
Children aged 3-12 and seniors 65+ get 20% off the ticket price, with an online reservation.
Free Zoo Days
Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month, from opening to closing; an online reservation is required.
Stroller rental
Double strollers and wagons rent for $17, manual wheelchairs for $18 and motorized scooters with sunshade for $45.
Bring your own
Outside food, drink and coolers are allowed, but not glass bottles, alcohol or plastic straws.
Cards only
The Zoo's food and drink outlets take credit cards only.
Nursing rooms
Nursing rooms are at Jack's Café and Cypress Circle Café.
Weather
The Zoo opens rain or shine and closes only for weather that threatens safety, such as a hurricane.
OUR FAMILY ASSESSMENT

Family Intelligence

Houston Zoo was founded in 1922 and is run as a nonprofit. You arrive through Hermann Park: on METRORail, ride the Red Line to the Memorial Hermann Hospital/Houston Zoo stop and walk through the Commons, an estimated ten minutes. The Zoo has no parking lot of its own, but parking in Hermann Park is free, and lots G, F, E, H and I are closest, an estimated 5-10 minute walk from the entrance. The garage at the Houston Museum of Natural Science is a paid alternative.

Wheels are the thing to think about. Some areas of the Zoo have inclines, uneven terrain and boardwalk-style paths, and strollers, wagons and coolers are not allowed in the Galápagos Islands exhibit, so plan that stop around leaving them behind. If you rent, the booth is on your right by the Guest Relations building as you come in.

You are welcome to nurse anywhere in the public areas where you feel comfortable. The Hermann Park Railroad you may see on the way is not associated with the Zoo and does not run within its grounds.

Family FAQ

How much does Houston Zoo cost?

Children aged 3-12 and seniors 65+ get 20% off the ticket price, with an online reservation.

Can you bring your own food to Houston Zoo?

Outside food, drink and coolers are allowed, but not glass bottles, alcohol or plastic straws.

Why kids will love it

Because it lets a family run the day on its own terms: bring your own lunch and a cooler, nurse wherever you’re comfortable, and choose a Free Zoo Day if the dates fit your trip.

Plan your visit

Also compare: Houston Zoo tickets on Tiqets (affiliate link)

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