Black Bear at the San Antonio Zoo

LParkerTX/Shutterstock

San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio


San Antonio’s zoo, in Breckenridge Park north of downtown, is home to 9000 animals from 750 different species. As well as one of the country's largest endangered-animal collections, it features a mini-train, a carousel and a butterfly garden. All charge a small separate fee, or are included in the Fun Day ticket (adult/child $25/22), which offers a small overall saving.

Note: this isn't a good place to spend a hot summer afternoon. Come early or late, when the animals aren't inside escaping the heat.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby San Antonio attractions

1. Japanese Tea Garden

0.24 MILES

It’s hard to believe this lovely, tranquil place was originally just a clever way to hide a hole in the ground. Almost 100 years ago, an eyesore of a…

2. Witte Museum

0.39 MILES

Set on the eastern edge of Brackenridge Park, the Witte is an engaging museum of natural history, science and Texas history. Pronounced ‘witty’, it’s…

3. Brackenridge Park

0.45 MILES

North of downtown near Trinity University, this 343-acre park is a great place to spend a family day. As well as the San Antonio Zoo, you'll find the…

4. DoSeum

0.71 MILES

This place is perfect for the 10-and-under set. Got toddlers? Head to Little Town and its miniature-sized businesses. Older kids will get a kick out of…

5. San Antonio Botanical Gardens

1 MILES

This expertly tended, 38-acre garden complex showcases native Texas flora. There's also a rose garden and a wonderful conservatory, with a bit of…

6. Fort Sam Houston

1.43 MILES

'Fort Sam' – as it's known 'round here – is ready to enlist you for a little military history. Its claims to fame? The Apache chief Geronimo was held here…

7. Quadrangle

1.43 MILES

Part of the Joint Base San Antonio military complex, Fort Sam Houston is home to more than 900 historic buildings. It has long been known as an Army…

8. San Antonio Museum of Art

1.81 MILES

Housed in the original 1880s Lone Star Brewery (a piece of art in itself), the San Antonio Museum of Art is home to an impressive trove of Latin American…