INTRODUCTION:
Dallas Zoo was founded in 1988 and is considered the oldest zoo in Texas. Sitting on 95 acres, this zoo is home to over 2,000 animals, including many rare and endangered species, such as Okapis, Snow Leopards, Tuataras, and so much more. It also has Reptile Collection, Reptile Discovery Center, and a Walk-Thru Rain Forest Aviary. Take advantage of their Picnic Areas, Gift Shop, and Adopt-An-Animal Program, which is all conveniently located at the zoo.
Within the zoo, is the 25-acre Wilds of Africa exhibit. Featuring in this park, you will find over 90 species of African birds and mammals, and reptiles in their natural habitat. Some other features in this zoo are:
WILDS OF AFRICA:
Monorail Safari
Kimberly-Clark Chimpanzee Forest
Jake L. Hamon Gorilla Conservation Research Center
1500 foot Forest Aviary Trail
Zookeeper Talk Sessions
THE HIGHLIGHT(S):
As mentioned above, we were really delighted with the Monorail Safari. The Monorail Safari takes you on a narrated tour through six habitats. It lasts about 25 minutes and is well worth the time and the little expense they charge for this excursion. Please make note that the Monorail is open during seasonal times, from Sept. 15th through Dec. 1st. It then opens up again from March 1st to June 15th. We highly recommend this tour.
ZOO NORTH:
Endangered Tiger Habitat
Snout Route
Primate Place
Lacerte Children’s Petting Zoo
Bird Valley
Pierre Fontaine Bird and Reptile Building
Zookeeper Talk Session
THE HIGHLIGHTS:
Although I’m not really fond of seeing animals held in captivity, we did enjoy two things at the Zoo North exhibit: 1) Zookeeper Talk Session, which we explained why above. 2) Snout Route.
SNOUT ROUTE:
A variety of animals with, you’ve got it, noses or snouts! A one-of-a-kind experience which deserves to be acknowledged.
LACERTE FAMILY CHILDREN’S ZOO:
If you have small children, then this is a must do. Some features in this area are:
The Wander
The Hillcrest Foundation Nature Exchange
Discovery House and Yard
Foundation Nature Exchange
Foundation Farm
Levy Tot Spot
The Dallas Zoological Society's Woods and Underzone
HIGHLIGHTS:
We did not do this attraction since we didn’t have any small children with us. However, from a friend’s point of view, she said, "It shouldn’t be passed up for the little ones!!"
IN CLOSING:
Our overall experience at the Dallas Zoo was very entertaining and delightful. If we had to choose between the Dallas Zoo or the Dallas World Aquarium, I would personally opt for the latter. Whichever choice you make, have a good time regardless!!
For more information on the Dallas Zoo, please visit this website.
Please note: Enclosed pictures are from Dallas Zoo’s website.