Visiting a zoo to see and learn about exotic animals is one of the best plans! But zoos aren’t the only places where you can see animals. Texas offers a wide variety of places to visit with kids, including mini golf, arcades, and more. But what do you do when you want to engage them in something educational, fun, and interesting?
When looking for ways to interact with animals alongside the kids, you have several options, including aquariums, wildlife rescue centers, drive-thru safaris, farms, and more.
In this guide, we present a list of the best animal encounters in Texas for kids. From exotic to native species, you’ll want to visit them all!
Our Top Picks for Animal Encounters in Texas for Kids
1
HOUSTON
Houston Zoo
If you live in Houston or are passing through with the family and looking for animal encounters in Texas for kids, the Houston Zoo is a must-visit. Discover more than 6,000 animals that are provided with the highest standard of animal care. Feed giraffes see cheetahs, sea lions, bears, and more! This zoo inspires action to save wildlife, while you get to see these amazing species up close.2
DALLAS- FORT WORTH
Fort Worth Zoo
Named the #1 zoo in America by a 2020 USA Today Readers' Choice poll, this zoo is one of the best places for animal encounters in Texas for kids. Home to more than 500 animal species, including 72 species of mammals, 148 species of birds, and 172 species of ectotherms, this zoo offers many great exhibits for the entire family to enjoy a great day. Additionally, there are hands-on animal programs for kids, such as the Fishing Seminar for Kids.3
AUSTIN
Austin Zoo
The Austin Zoo assists animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation, and education, making it a premier wildlife rescue center in Texas. Kids will be amazed by more than 300 animals, including exotic species and Texas natives like goats, pigs, donkeys, and more! The zoo also hosts family-friendly events, animal rescue initiatives, and hands-on animal programs for kids.4
3903 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212, USA
San Antonio Zoo
With over 750 species in replicas of natural habitats and dedicated animal care, the San Antonio Zoo is truly one of the best zoos and wildlife parks in Texas. Operated by the San Antonio Zoological Society, a non-profit organization, it offers a unique experience. The entire family will enjoy this special place that protects animals and educates the community.5
DALLAS
Dallas Zoo
This 160-acre zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and 400 different species! Learn about the animals, feed giraffes, enjoy birds landing, and more! Meet all the amazing species and have a fun family day. While they don’t offer specific options alongside drive-thru safaris for families in Texas, their Backstage Safari provides a unique 90-minute guided tour, allowing families to experience the zoo like never before. Engage in exclusive animal encounters, such as feeding elephants and penguins.6
AUSTIN
Austin Aquarium
Looking for aquariums for children in Austin, Texas? Look no further! Experience everything that the sea has to offer! Enjoy interactive experiences, hand-feed sharks, rays, birds, and fish, and discover amazing interactive exhibits! The entire family will have so much fun at the Austin Aquarium.7
HOUSTON
Old MacDonald’s Farm
For farm animal experiences in Texas, Old MacDonald’s Farm is a top choice! This charming 15-acre farm features 12 petting zoo barns, pony rides, a train ride, a swimming pool, and many other activities that kids will love. Children can enjoy the playgrounds, while the whole family interacts with amazing farm animals!8
HUOSTON
Crocodile Encounter
When it comes to animal encounters in Texas, mentioning crocodiles might sound a bit daunting, but this destination is incredibly family-friendly! You can watch crocodiles and alligators swimming and sunning, plus enjoy feeding demonstrations. You'll also have the chance to see snakes, lizards, and turtles! Get ready for a unique experience!9
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Experience an African Safari, Texas-style! Explore 450 acres of rolling hills, oak trees, and witness the behavior of over 500 exotic, native, and endangered animals. This drive-thru safari for families in San Antonio, Texas, offers close and exciting animal interactions for the entire family to enjoy!10
HOUSTON
Downtown Aquarium
Another great aquarium for children is the Downtown Aquarium in Houston. This 6-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland! Visitors can see over 300 species of aquatic animals, enjoy amazing exhibits, rides, and games! It’s sure to become a family favorite!11
AUSTIN
Pioneer Farms
At Pioneer Farms, besides getting up close with amazing animals, you will also walk into five themed historic areas, including a German Emigrant Farm, a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a Cotton Planter’s Farm, a Texian Farm, and a rural village called Sprinkle Corner. The entire family will experience Texas history while engaging in many exciting farm animal encounters.12
HOUSTON
Dewberry Farms
Looking for more exciting animal encounters in Texas for kids? Families can enjoy pony rides, as well as an 8-acre corn maze, 50 attractions, eating spots, seasonal live entertainment, and music! There’s something for every member of the family at Dewberry Farms!13
DALLAS
The Dallas World Aquarium
From the rainforest exhibit, where you will see exotic birds, to the aquarium part, which displays marine life, you will love visiting the Dallas World Aquarium! Discover amazing exhibits and learn about exotic animals at one of the best aquariums for children in Texas.14
DALLAS
Caldwell Zoo
Caldwell Zoo is home to over 3,000 individual animals from more than 200 species, including zebras, giraffes, alligators, black bears, and more! Explore the African savanna, as well as North and South American habitats, and discover many new things! While it is not a wildlife rescue center, the zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts for endangered species through breeding and release programs.15
AUSTIN
The Exotic Resort Zoo
When searching for animal encounters in Texas for kids, the Exotic Resort Zoo is a must-visit. See more than 700 animals from 45 different species. You can feed and socialize with animals such as the American Bison, Scottish Highlanders, Zebras, and more. The zoo also offers cozy Safari Cabins equipped with essential amenities, as well as drive-thru safaris for families.16
HOUSTON
Nature Discovery Center
The family can connect with nature and explore prairie grasses, tall pecans, native understory, and wide lawns that are home to many animals. The best part of the Nature Discovery Center is its hands-on animal programs for kids, where children can awaken their curiosity about nature and animals in a safe environment. If you’re interested in animal encounters for kids in Texas, be sure to visit the Discovery Room Animals and Dean Neubek Critter Classroom Animals.17
DALLAS
Cameron Park Zoo
At this incredible animal encounter in Texas, kids and families can see more than 1,700 animals representing 300 species across beautifully designed habitats. This over 52-acre zoo features views of native vegetation, waterfalls, a lake, and ponds. From primates to majestic big cats, it’s one of the best zoos and wildlife parks in Texas to learn about conservation.18
DALLAS
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Take a tour with the family at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. With over 1,100 animals, including more than 50 species of native and non-native wildlife, Fossil Rim is one of the most comprehensive animal encounters in Texas for kids. This 1,800-acre park is home to incredible animals such as kudu, cheetahs, addax, rhinos, and more, ensuring that everyone has an unforgettable experience.19
500 E Ringgold St, Brownsville, TX 78520, USA
Gladys Porter Zoo
Known for its conservation efforts, the zoo features distinct geographic areas including Africa, Asia, and Tropical America, along with a Herpetarium and an aquarium. At the Gladys Porter Zoo, you will get to see over 1,600 animals and explore 31 acres of tropical plants. They also offer great hands-on animal activities for kids, like the Animal Contact Yard.20
110 Memorial Dr, Victoria, TX 77901, USA
Texas Zoo
See over 70 species of animals, both exotic and native, many of which are rescued animals that could not be returned to the wild. Visit the Texas Zoo for a great family day connecting with wildlife! It's one of the best zoos and wildlife parks in Texas.21
10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, USA
SeaWorld San Antonio
Families have an amazing time seeing and learning about marine animals at SeaWorld! You will get to experience close-up encounters, enjoy thrilling rides, performances, and so much more, all in one place. Next time you’re looking for unique aquariums for children in Texas, be sure to check out SeaWorld!Kids love animals. They are drawn to the charm of creatures that are both unique and adorable. However, even when they want to pet a dog or cat, parents often worry about safety. The best way to let kids have fun while interacting with animals is to visit a zoo, farm, or wildlife park. Because of this focus on safety, it’s important to know where the best animal encounters in Texas for kids are.
Next time you’re looking for a fun outing and want to try something different from a trampoline park or indoor playground, you’ll know exactly where to go.
