Dallas Zoo closes at 5 p.m. most days, with extended hours in summer

The Dallas Zoo closes at 5 p.m. from November through February. From March through October, the zoo stays open until 6 p.m. During the summer months of June, July, and August, closing time extends to 7 p.m. on select days, usually Thursday through Sunday. The zoo opens at 9 a.m. year-round.

Hours shift seasonally because of Texas heat and visitor demand. Summer evening hours let you avoid the hottest part of the day and see animals when they are more active. Winter hours reflect shorter daylight and lower attendance. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard closing time is 5 p.m. from November through February and 6 p.m. from March through October.
  • Extended summer hours run until 7 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday during June, July, and August.
  • The zoo opens at 9 a.m. every day it is open, so you have a consistent start time year-round.
  • Check the Dallas Zoo website or call ahead before your visit because special events, weather, or staffing sometimes change posted hours.

How to confirm hours before you go

Hours listed on the Dallas Zoo website are the official source and update if the zoo closes early or extends hours for a special event. The website shows the current month's calendar with exact closing times for each day. You can also call the zoo directly at 214-978-5888 to confirm hours the day of your visit.

Weather occasionally forces early closure. During extreme heat warnings or severe storms, the zoo may close earlier than posted. If you are planning an evening visit during summer months, confirm that extended hours are running that specific day, since they do not operate every day of the week.

Planning your visit around closing time

Arriving in the early morning gives you the most time to see exhibits before closing. The zoo is largest in the Dallas area and takes three to four hours to walk through at a comfortable pace. If you arrive after 2 p.m., you will have limited time to explore before closing, especially in winter when the sun sets earlier.

Parking and exit lines can take 20 to 30 minutes after closing time, particularly on weekends and during summer. Plan to head toward the exit 30 minutes before closing so you are not rushed. The zoo is located at 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway in Dallas, and parking fills quickly on warm days.

Summer extended hours schedule

From June through August, the zoo extends hours to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Monday through Wednesday close at 6 p.m. during these months. This schedule lets families visit in the evening when temperatures drop and animals are more active. The zoo often has special programming or food vendors available during extended evening hours.

Extended summer hours are popular, so arrive early in the afternoon if you plan an evening visit. Parking and entry lines move slower during peak hours. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday morning in summer gives you the full day without the evening crowds.

Off-season and holiday closures

The Dallas Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. These are the only days the zoo does not open at all. On other holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, the zoo operates on its regular seasonal schedule.

Winter months (November through February) have the shortest hours and the fewest visitors. If you prefer a less crowded experience, winter is the best time to visit, though you will need to plan your day around the 5 p.m. closing time. Spring and fall offer moderate crowds and pleasant temperatures with 6 p.m. closing time.

What to know about last entry and ticket sales

Last entry to the zoo is typically one hour before closing time. If the zoo closes at 5 p.m., you cannot enter after 4 p.m. This policy prevents visitors from arriving near closing and having only a few minutes inside. Ticket sales at the gate also stop one hour before closing, though you can purchase tickets online in advance at any time.

Online tickets are cheaper than gate tickets and let you skip the entry line. You can buy them on the Dallas Zoo website up until one hour before closing. If you arrive without tickets, the gate will sell them to you if time remains, but you risk arriving too late to enter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay inside the zoo after closing time?

No. All visitors must exit by closing time. Staff begin clearing the grounds 15 to 20 minutes before closing, and gates are locked at the posted time. Plan to head toward the exit well before closing to avoid being asked to leave.

Do hours change on weekends?

Weekends follow the same seasonal schedule as weekdays. The zoo closes at 5 p.m. in winter, 6 p.m. in spring and fall, and 7 p.m. on summer weekends. Summer weekday hours (Monday through Wednesday) are 6 p.m., not 7 p.m.

What if I buy a membership—do I get different hours?

Membership holders have the same access hours as day-pass visitors. The zoo closes at the same time for everyone. Some members-only events run in the evening after regular hours, but these are separate ticketed programs, not extended zoo access.

Is the Dallas Zoo open year-round?

Yes, the Dallas Zoo is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Hours change seasonally, but the zoo does not have a closed season. Winter hours are shorter, but the zoo operates daily.

Where can I find the most current hours?

The Dallas Zoo website shows the current month's calendar with exact hours for each day. You can also call 214-978-5888. Hours posted on Google Maps and other third-party sites may not update when ready if the zoo changes hours for special events or weather.