The Fort Worth Zoo opened in 1909, and generations of North Texas kids have grown up visiting it. Today it’s run by the Fort Worth Zoological Association and is home to thousands of animals across habitats you can walk in a morning. It’s about 20 minutes from our house, an easy family day.
What to see
Elephant Springs is one of the newer areas and one of the best. It’s home to Asian elephants and greater one-horned rhinos, with big open habitats and plenty of viewing spots.
African Savanna is the classic: giraffes, zebras and more, in a wide open landscape. Kids especially love the giraffes up close.
Plan time for the play areas and the indoor exhibits too. On a hot afternoon they’re a welcome break from the sun.
Getting there from Casita
Head west toward Fort Worth. The zoo sits south of downtown, near the Trinity River and the TCU area. It’s about 20 minutes on a normal day, and the zoo has its own parking.
Plan your visit
The zoo’s best-known deal is half-price admission every Wednesday. No code or advance booking is needed. Prices change, so check the zoo’s site for current admission before you go.
In summer, go early. The animals are more active in the morning, the paths are shadier, and you can be back at the house for lunch and a nap before the afternoon heat. Bring refillable water bottles and, for small children, a stroller. The zoo covers a lot of ground.
Make a weekend of it
The Cultural District is a few minutes away and has a science museum built for kids. Six Flags Over Texas is perfect for older kids who want coasters. The Stockyards cattle drive is free and short enough to hold a toddler’s attention.
With two bedrooms, a full kitchen and a fenced backyard, the house makes family trips easy. Check our dates.
Tips from the house
- Go on a Wednesday. Admission has been half price every Wednesday, with no code needed.
- Arrive at opening in summer. Animals are more active in the cooler morning and the paths are less crowded.
- Bring refillable water bottles and a stroller for little ones. The zoo covers a lot of ground.
- Plan two to four hours, more if your kids want to see everything.
Good to know
Is the Fort Worth Zoo half price on Wednesdays?
Yes. The zoo has offered half-price admission every Wednesday, with no code or advance booking needed. Check current prices on its website.
How long does it take to see the Fort Worth Zoo?
Most families spend two to four hours. With small children, plan for breaks and the play areas.
When did the Fort Worth Zoo open?
In 1909, which makes it one of the oldest zoos in Texas.
How far is the Fort Worth Zoo from Arlington?
From our home near Lake Arlington it's about 10 miles, usually around 20 minutes by car.
Photo: DRAMOS19, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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