Discover the Wonders of Houston Zoo
Explore the Houston Zoo: A family-friendly adventure featuring 6,000+ animals, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to wildlife conservation.
Experience the vibrant world of wildlife at the Houston Zoo, a family-friendly destination filled with over 6,000 animals, interactive exhibits, and lush landscapes. Perfect for all ages, this 55-acre zoo offers unforgettable encounters with diverse species from around the globe. Whether you’re exploring the African Forest or the Kipp Aquarium, every corner of the zoo invites you to connect with nature and learn about animal conservation in a fun and engaging way.
A brief summary to Houston Zoo
- 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, Medical Center Area, Texas, 77030, US
- +1713-533-6500
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Check the schedule for animal feeding times and special events to enhance your experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot throughout the expansive grounds.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line.
Getting There
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Walking
From Rice Village, head south on Kirby Drive. Walk for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with West Holcombe Boulevard. Turn left onto West Holcombe Boulevard and continue walking for approximately 0.7 miles. You will reach the entrance to Hermann Park, where the Houston Zoo is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.
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Public Transit (Bus)
From Rice Village, head to the nearest bus stop located at Kirby Drive and University Boulevard. Catch the METRO Bus Route 56 towards the Medical Center. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the stop at Hermann Park. From there, it's a short walk (about 5 minutes) to the entrance of the Houston Zoo located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. A single ride on the bus costs approximately $1.25.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can ride from Rice Village to the Houston Zoo. Start by heading south on Kirby Drive. After about 0.5 miles, turn left onto West Holcombe Boulevard. Continue for about 0.7 miles to Hermann Park. The ride will take around 15-20 minutes, and you can lock your bike at designated bike racks near the zoo entrance.
Discover more about Houston Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mahatma Gandhi Monument
0.6 km
Discover the Mahatma Gandhi Monument in Houston, a serene sculpture honoring the legacy of peace and non-violence in a vibrant urban setting.
Sam Houston Statue at Hermann Park
0.7 km
Explore the grandeur of the Sam Houston Statue at Hermann Park, a historic monument surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant Texas culture.
History Department
0.9 km
Discover the captivating world of history at Rice University's History Department, where knowledge and exploration come together in a vibrant academic setting.
Clayton House
1.2 km
Explore your ancestry at the Clayton House, a historical landmark and library in Houston's Museum District, rich in genealogical resources.
Montrose District
1.3 km
Discover the Montrose District, Houston's vibrant hub of art, culture, and culinary delights, where creativity thrives in every corner.
Hungry's
2.2 km
Discover the flavors of New American cuisine at Hungry's in Houston, where quality ingredients and a bistro atmosphere create dining delight.
British Isles
2.3 km
Discover unique gifts, gourmet treats, and charming collectibles at the British Isles Gift Shop in Houston, a must-visit for every tourist.
Refresqueria at Rice Village
2.4 km
Discover the irresistible flavors of Refresqueria at Rice Village, Houston's favorite dessert and ice cream destination, perfect for sweet lovers.
Fundamentally Toys
2.4 km
Explore Fundamentally Toys in Houston: a magical destination for toys, games, and books, perfect for families and visitors of all ages.
The Rice Box
2.4 km
Experience a delightful blend of flavors at The Rice Box, Houston's premier Asian fusion restaurant, renowned for its delicious takeout and vibrant atmosphere.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
2.4 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at Hopdoddy Burger Bar in Houston, where gourmet flavors meet a lively atmosphere.
Mendocino Farms
2.4 km
Discover the fresh flavors of Mendocino Farms, a sandwich and salad haven in Houston's Rice Village, perfect for food lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
La Taste
2.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at La Taste, the charming gift shop in Houston's University Place, perfect for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs.
Tiger Noodle House
2.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of China at Tiger Noodle House in Houston, where fresh ingredients meet culinary tradition in a vibrant atmosphere.
Rothko Chapel
2.5 km
Discover tranquility and artistic brilliance at Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas—where spirituality meets contemporary art.
Unmissable attractions to see
McNair Asian Elephant Habitat
0.2 km
Experience the awe-inspiring McNair Asian Elephant Habitat at Houston Zoo, where conservation meets education in a naturalistic setting.
Hermann Park
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of Hermann Park in Houston, an urban oasis with stunning gardens, a serene lake, and ample recreational activities for all.
Pioneer Memorial Obelisk
0.3 km
Explore the Pioneer Memorial Obelisk in Hermann Park, a historic tribute to Texas pioneers amidst Houston's natural beauty.
Miller Outdoor Theatre
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre, Houston's premier destination for outdoor arts and culture amidst the beauty of Hermann Park.
Japanese Garden
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Japanese Garden in Houston, a peaceful retreat featuring tranquil koi ponds, lush landscapes, and traditional Japanese design.
Burke Baker Planetarium
0.6 km
Explore the cosmos at Burke Baker Planetarium in Houston, a captivating destination for stargazers and science enthusiasts alike.
McGovern Centennial Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of McGovern Centennial Gardens in Houston, a picturesque urban oasis perfect for relaxation and exploration.
McGovern Garden Falls
0.7 km
Experience tranquility at McGovern Garden Falls, a serene oasis in Hermann Park, Houston, featuring stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes perfect for relaxation.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
0.7 km
Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science for an unforgettable journey through nature, history, and science in the heart of Texas.
Cockrell Butterfly Center
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting wonder of thousands of butterflies in a lush rainforest setting at the Cockrell Butterfly Center in Houston.
Hawkins Sculpture Walk
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and artistic flair of Hawkins Sculpture Walk within Houston's Hermann Park, where art meets nature in perfect harmony.
The Health Museum
0.8 km
Discover the wonders of science and health at The Health Museum in Houston, an engaging destination for curious minds and families alike.
Mecom Fountain
0.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Mecom Fountain in Hermann Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Houston perfect for relaxation and scenic photography.
Children's Museum Houston
0.9 km
Explore Children's Museum Houston, a hub of learning and creativity in the heart of Texas, where young minds can play, learn, and discover.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
1.1 km
Explore the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: A Cultural Hub of Art, History, and Inspiration in Texas.
Essential places to dine
Davis Street at Hermann Park
0.9 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine at Davis Street near Hermann Park, where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Bodegas Taco Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic Tex-Mex cuisine at Bodegas Taco Shop in Houston's Museum District – a vibrant eatery with fresh flavors and great ambiance.
Granger's Restaurant & Bar
0.9 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at Granger's Restaurant & Bar in Houston's Museum District - a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Monarch
1.0 km
Experience refined American cuisine at Monarch in Houston's Museum District - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and style.
MF Sushi
1.0 km
Discover the art of sushi at MF Sushi in Houston's Museum District – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Barnaby's Cafe
1.0 km
Discover Barnaby's Cafe in Houston's Museum District: A must-visit spot for American comfort food lovers offering delicious meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Fadi's Mediterranean Eatery
1.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Fadi's Eatery in Houston - where every meal is a journey through rich culinary traditions.
Lucille's
1.0 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Lucille's in Houston - where every dish tells a story.
Wall Street Almeda
1.4 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Wall Street Almeda, where every dish tells a story in Houston's vibrant Museum District.
Turkey Leg Hut
1.7 km
Discover a unique blend of Southern American comfort food and Turkish influences at Turkey Leg Hut in Houston's Museum District.
BCN Taste & Tradition
2.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at BCN Taste & Tradition in Houston's Montrose neighborhood - where every meal tells a story.
Late August
2.2 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Late August in Midtown Houston—where local flavors meet modern dining.
The Toasted Coconut
2.3 km
Experience modern Mexican cuisine with tropical flair at The Toasted Coconut in Houston's lively Montrose neighborhood.
Island Grill
2.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine blended with American favorites at Island Grill in Houston.
Hamsa
2.4 km
Experience authentic Israeli flavors at Hamsa in Houston – a delightful Middle Eastern culinary haven.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Houston Zoo Gift Shop
0.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the Houston Zoo Gift Shop, a perfect spot for every zoo visitor.
Hermann Park Conservancy Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Hermann Park Conservancy Gift Shop, a must-visit destination for every Houston tourist.
Shani Market
0.5 km
Explore Shani Market at Houston Zoo for unique gifts, souvenirs, and eco-friendly treasures that celebrate wildlife and local culture.
Zen & Now Gifts 287
0.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts at Zen & Now Gifts, a charming shop in Houston's Medical Center Area, perfect for finding special memories.
Fiddle Sticks Toys
0.9 km
Discover a world of imagination at Fiddle Sticks Toys in Houston's Museum District, where every toy sparks joy and creativity for all ages.
The MFA Shop
1.1 km
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Melodrama Boutique
1.3 km
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Sabrak Boutique
2.1 km
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Desiree McKInney ENT
2.1 km
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Meli-Melo
2.4 km
Explore Meli-Melo Gift Shop in Houston for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and local treasures that capture the essence of Texas.
JonkBoxx Collection - Texas, USA
2.4 km
Discover unique fashion and local flair at JonkBoxx Collection, a premier clothing store in Houston, Texas.
Fig Tree Accessories Rice Village
2.4 km
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Space Village
2.4 km
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Fallen Angel
2.5 km
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Blue Leaf Houston
2.5 km
Explore Blue Leaf Houston for unique gifts, stylish baby clothes, and exquisite jewelry in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
City Cellars
1.0 km
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Martini Bar and Cigar
1.4 km
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Bar 5015
1.5 km
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Grand Prize
1.6 km
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The Tipsy Lounge
1.7 km
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Quad Houston Restaurant & Sports Lounge
1.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of grilled delights and sports entertainment at Quad Houston Restaurant & Sports Lounge in the vibrant Houston Museum District.
UnWine
2.0 km
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Cooper's
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Houston at Cooper's, where cocktails, ambiance, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable night out.
MOCA Restaurant & Lounge
2.2 km
Discover MOCA Restaurant & Lounge in Houston's Museum District for a lively blend of exquisite drinks, delicious bites, and vibrant ambiance.
Upstairs
2.2 km
Discover Upstairs, Houston's chic bar and lounge featuring crafted cocktails, vibrant atmospheres, and versatile event spaces in University Place.
Little Woodrow's Rice Village
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Houston at Little Woodrow's Rice Village, the ultimate sports bar with great food, drinks, and game day excitement.
The Owl
2.5 km
Discover The Owl in Houston, a unique bar with eclectic vibes, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Lees Den
2.5 km
Discover the exquisite taste of wines from around the world at Lees Den, Houston's premier wine bar, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
Under the Volcano
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails at Under the Volcano, a premier cocktail bar in Houston's Southampton neighborhood.
Simone on Sunset
2.6 km
Discover Simone on Sunset, where culinary innovation meets a vibrant bar scene in Houston's Southampton neighborhood.
