The Dallas Zoo covers 106 acres in the heart of the city

The Dallas Zoo spans 106 acres in Marsalis Park, making it one of the largest zoos in the United States by land area. The zoo sits just south of downtown Dallas, near the Trinity River, and is divided into distinct habitat zones rather than a single continuous path. You can walk the entire grounds in a day, though most visitors spend four to six hours there.

The 106-acre size includes both the animal habitats and the visitor areas—pathways, rest zones, food courts, and gift shops. Not all 106 acres are open to the public at once; some sections are reserved for animal care, breeding programs, and staff facilities. The walkable visitor area is roughly 60 to 70 acres, depending on which sections are open during your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dallas Zoo occupies 106 acres in Marsalis Park, south of downtown Dallas near the Trinity River.
  • The zoo is divided into themed habitat zones, and most visitors spend four to six hours walking the grounds.
  • The zoo houses over 2,000 animals representing more than 400 species, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and birds.
  • The zoo is open year-round, and admission prices vary by age and season, with discounts available for Dallas residents.

What animals and habitats you will see

The Dallas Zoo is organized into habitat zones named after geographic regions: Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The Africa section includes lions, giraffes, zebras, and African wild dogs. The Asia zone features tigers, red pandas, and various primate species. The Americas area holds jaguars, sloths, and other species native to North and South America.

The zoo also maintains a reptile house, an aviary, and a separate area for smaller mammals and birds. The Wilds of Africa section, one of the most visited areas, features a giraffe feeding station where visitors can hand-feed giraffes from an elevated platform. The zoo houses over 2,000 individual animals representing more than 400 species total.

How long it takes to walk the entire zoo

Walking the entire zoo without stopping takes roughly two to three hours if you move at a steady pace. Most visitors, however, spend four to six hours because they pause to watch animals, read informational signs, eat, and rest. The terrain is mostly flat and paved, though some sections have gentle slopes.

If you want to see every habitat and animal without rushing, plan for a full day. Families with young children or visitors who tire easily should allow six to eight hours. The zoo provides benches and shaded rest areas throughout, and you can rent strollers or wheelchairs if needed.

Admission costs and hours of operation

The Dallas Zoo is open year-round, typically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours extend to 6 p.m. during summer months. Admission prices vary by age: children ages 3 to 11 pay one rate, adults pay another, and seniors (65 and older) receive a discount. Children under 3 enter free. Prices also differ between peak season (spring and summer) and off-season (fall and winter).

Dallas residents with proof of residency receive a discount on admission. The zoo offers membership packages that pay for themselves after two or three visits if you plan to return multiple times per year. Parking is included with admission and is free in the zoo's lot.

Getting there and parking

The Dallas Zoo is located at 650 R.L. Thornton Freeway (Interstate 35E), just south of downtown. If you drive, parking is free and plentiful in the zoo's main lot. The zoo is accessible by public transit: the DART bus system serves the area, and several routes stop near the entrance.

If you are using GPS or a mapping app, enter the zoo's address as 650 R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TX 75203. The entrance is clearly marked from the parking lot. Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the entrance if you did not bring your own.

What to bring and what to expect on a visit

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially during warm months—the zoo has limited shade in some areas, and the Texas sun is intense. Comfortable walking shoes are essential because you will be on your feet for several hours. The zoo allows outside food and drinks, so you can bring a picnic, though food vendors are also scattered throughout the grounds.

The zoo can be crowded on weekends and during school holidays, particularly in spring and early summer. Weekday visits in fall and winter tend to be quieter. Strollers are allowed everywhere, and the zoo is generally accessible for visitors with mobility challenges, though some paths have slight inclines.

Special exhibits and seasonal events

The Dallas Zoo hosts seasonal events and special exhibits that change throughout the year. Holiday-themed events occur in winter, and the zoo sometimes features temporary exhibits focused on specific animal groups or conservation efforts. The zoo also runs educational programs and keeper talks at various times during the day.

Check the zoo's website or call ahead before your visit to learn about any special events, temporary closures, or new exhibits. Some exhibits rotate animals seasonally, so the specific animals you see may vary depending on when you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Dallas Zoo?

Yes, outside food and drinks are permitted. You can bring a picnic or snacks, and the zoo has shaded picnic areas. Food vendors throughout the zoo also sell meals and snacks if you prefer not to bring your own.

Is the Dallas Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most of the zoo is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges. Paved pathways run through most habitat areas, and wheelchair rentals are available at the entrance. Some elevated viewing platforms and certain sections may have limited accessibility, so ask staff about specific areas when you arrive.

What is the best time of year to visit the Dallas Zoo?

Fall and winter offer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, making for a more comfortable visit. Spring and summer are busier but offer longer hours and more active animals. Avoid peak times like weekends and school holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.

How much does it cost to park at the Dallas Zoo?

Parking is free and included with your admission. The zoo has a large parking lot adjacent to the entrance, and spaces are usually available even on busy days.

Can I feed the giraffes at the Dallas Zoo?

Yes, the giraffe feeding station in the Wilds of Africa section allows visitors to hand-feed giraffes from an elevated platform. This is one of the most popular activities at the zoo, so arrive early if you want to participate.