The Dallas Zoo opens at 9 a.m. most days, but hours change by season and day of the week

The Dallas Zoo, located in Fair Park, opens at 9 a.m. on weekdays year-round. On weekends and holidays, opening time is the same — 9 a.m. — but closing time varies. During summer months (roughly June through August), the zoo stays open until 6 p.m. on weekdays and 7 p.m. on weekends. In fall and winter, closing time drops to 5 p.m. most days. The exact schedule shifts twice a year, so checking the official Dallas Zoo website or calling ahead before your visit prevents a wasted trip.

Hours also change for special events, holiday closures, and weather. The zoo closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. During extreme heat warnings or severe weather, the zoo may close early or open late. If you are planning a visit more than a few days out, the zoo's website has a calendar showing hours for each specific date.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dallas Zoo opens at 9 a.m. every day it operates, with closing times ranging from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. depending on season and day of the week.
  • Summer hours (June through August) extend to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 7 p.m. on weekends; fall and winter hours close at 5 p.m. most days.
  • The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and may adjust hours during extreme weather or special events.
  • The official Dallas Zoo website displays a full calendar with hours for each date, which is the fastest way to confirm before you go.

How to find the current schedule

Visit dallaszoo.com and look for the "Hours" or "Plan Your Visit" section. The site displays a calendar where you can click any date and see that day's opening and closing time. You can also call the zoo directly at (469) 554-7501 to confirm hours for the day you plan to visit.

If you are buying tickets online in advance, the website will show you which hours explore to your chosen date. Many visitors buy tickets ahead of time to skip the gate line, and the online purchase process always confirms the hours for that day.

Seasonal hours explained

Summer hours (typically June 1 through August 31) run 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays. This longer schedule lets families spend more time outdoors during school break and takes advantage of longer daylight.

Fall and winter hours (September through May) are shorter: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. most days. Some weekends may stay open until 6 p.m., but this varies by month. The zoo makes these changes to match daylight and manage operating costs during cooler months when attendance is lower.

The exact dates when hours change are posted on the zoo's website each year. If you visit in late May or early September, confirm the current schedule because those are transition weeks.

What to know before you arrive

Arriving early — within the first hour after opening — means shorter parking and entry lines, especially on weekends and during school holidays. The zoo is busiest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so if you go on a weekday morning, you will move through exhibits faster.

Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. The zoo covers 106 acres, and you will walk several miles even if you do not see every exhibit. Shaded areas exist but are limited, so plan for sun exposure. Strollers and wheelchairs are available to rent on-site if you need them.

Parking is included with admission and is located in Fair Park lots. Arrive with enough time to park and walk to the entrance before the zoo opens, especially if you bought timed-entry tickets online.

Admission prices and ticket options

General admission varies by age: children (3–11 years) and seniors (65+) pay a lower rate than adults (12–64 years). Children under 3 are free. Prices change seasonally, with higher rates during peak summer months and lower rates during fall and winter. The zoo's website shows current prices and lets you buy tickets online.

Online tickets are usually cheaper than gate prices and let you skip the ticket line. Some tickets are timed-entry, meaning you choose a specific arrival window (for example, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.). Other tickets are valid any time during operating hours that day. Check which type you are buying before completing your purchase.

The zoo also offers memberships, which pay for themselves after two or three visits if you plan to return. Members get free admission, discounts on parking and food, and early access to special events.

Special closures and holiday hours

The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. On other major holidays — including New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day — the zoo is open but may have modified hours. Check the calendar on the website for the specific hours on any holiday you plan to visit.

During extreme weather — temperatures above 105°F or severe storms — the zoo may close early or delay opening. If you are visiting during a heat wave or when severe weather is forecast, call ahead or check the website that morning for any changes.

Getting to the Dallas Zoo

The zoo is located at 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway in Fair Park, about 3 miles south of downtown Dallas. If you are using GPS or a navigation app, enter the address or search "Dallas Zoo." Parking is free and included with admission.

Public transit is available: DART bus routes serve Fair Park, and the DART light rail Green Line stops at Fair Park Station, about a 10-minute walk from the zoo entrance. Check the DART website for current routes and schedules if you plan to use public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the zoo?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, including water bottles and snacks. The zoo also has food vendors throughout the grounds if you prefer to buy meals there. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

Are there quiet hours or less crowded times to visit?

Weekday mornings, especially in fall and winter, are quieter than weekends and summer days. Arriving right at 9 a.m. on a Tuesday or Wednesday will give you the shortest lines and most peaceful experience. School holidays and summer vacation are the busiest times.

What if the zoo closes early due to weather?

If the zoo closes early, you can return another day with your ticket, or request a refund through the website. Keep your ticket receipt. Call the zoo if you are unsure whether your ticket is valid for a future date.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance, or can I buy them at the gate?

You can buy tickets at the gate, but online purchase is faster and usually cheaper. If you buy online, you still need to arrive early enough to park and walk to the entrance before your timed-entry window begins.

Is the Dallas Zoo accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes. The zoo has paved pathways, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking. Wheelchairs and strollers are available to rent. Some exhibits have seating areas where you can rest. Call ahead at (469) 554-7501 if you have specific accessibility questions.