Zoos and aquariums are hugely popular among children, and San Antonio has an abundance of places to see animals. You can also find options that are outside the city and are worth the drive!
If your kids love spending time in nature or engaging in farm-related activities, they will love these awesome places to see animals around town. Zoos and aquariums in San Antonio are the best options for being face-to-face with unique creatures, but these aren’t the only spots to find them. This list is packed with options like the best zoo in San Antonio, a wildlife ranch, and even the best San Antonio aquarium!
Get prepared for your next family outing by checking out our list of where you can go to see animals in or near San Antonio – you and the kids will love any of these fun destinations!
Great Aquariums and Zoos in San Antonio to visit with kids
1
San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo is the main and best zoo in San Antonio, being home to a wide variety of animals and many different amazing species! The entire family will enjoy this special place that protects animals and educates the community. San Antonio Zoo also offers many kid-friendly events and programs throughout the year, such as camps and educational classes!2
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Not exactly a San Antonio zoo, but this wildlife ranch comes pretty close to that and it’s a must-visit for families who love animals. Experience an African Safari, Texas-style! Explore 450 acres of rolling hills, and oak trees, and witness the behavior of over 500 exotic, native, and endangered animals. This safari drive-through offers close animal interactions for the entire family to enjoy!3
SeaWorld San Antonio
This interactive aquarium in San Antonio will be your kids’ new favorite spot! SeaWorld is a totally must-visit experience! Families have an amazing time seeing and learning about marine animals at SeaWorld having close-up encounters, enjoying thrilling rides, performances, and so much more, all in one place!4
Sea Life San Antonio
This is one of the best aquariums in San Antonio! Sea Life San Antonio features many different amazing animals such as sharks, seahorses, clownfish, jellyfish, sea turtles, and so much more! At this amazing aquarium, you will get to see them all up close, from the curious and the rescued to the enigmatic!5
Texas Zoo
At Texas Zoo in Victoria, the whole family will have a unique time seeing over 100 species of animals both exotic and native, many of them being rescued animals that could not be returned to the wild. Visit this awesome zoo near San Antonio and spend a great family day connecting with the wild.6
San Antonio Aquarium
The San Antonio Aquarium welcomes families to experience everything the deep blue sea has to offer with interactive experiences. Guests can get to hand-feed sharks, rays, birds, and fish; get up close and personal with a red ruffed lemur, or pet one of the caiman lizards! This spot is in the running towards being the best aquarium in San Antonio!7
Gladys Porter Zoo
Another spot that is worth the drive from San Antonio is Gladys Porter Zoo. Families will get to see over 1,500 animals and explore 31 acres of tropical plants. This zoo is dedicated to preserving nature through education, conservation, and healthy outdoor recreation. Open every day of the year from 9 AM until 5 PM with extended summer hours.Want to know about more places like these beyond the San Antonio city limits?
Make sure you check out our blog on 25 Best Places to See Animals in Texas!
Besides visiting zoos in San Antonio, there are so many more opportunities for family fun! Take a look at our favorite picks!