Houston Zoo Reviews

The zoo is amazing. I have gone here for 50 years and it is better now than ever. I don t know if the traffic is always as bad leaving but that s a great indication of what the zoo offers.

Great zoo but parking was awful! Got a ticket for parking in a non parking space! Not good!

Great place to visit with the family. Expect to do a lot of walking and spend a whole day here. Some renovations are still going on and the place is growing. Arrive early- Parking gets full quickly.

Lonely place but some animales looked sad. Like the porcupine

So many animals to see. Sound effects have been put in a number of place to makes the animals feel more at home. You can actually learn a thing or two about the original and species of some of the animals there. We saw creatures we did even know existed on this planet. Loved that some animals had enough space to even run around and that others actually lived in herds. Place is big, so much to see, you actually get tired and feel like you exhausted all your money. Amazing for families with kids too. Was easy to navigate. We did find a shop to grab a bit but it was closed. I guess we were there at the wrong time.

The only thing that was disappointing is the souvenir shop. It had everything that kids can love but we could not find a nice authentic craft that one can give an adult. Most items were made of plastic of fibre. It's a zoo, with animals from all over, I had hoped to find souvenirs made out of natural material, at the least wood! But again. It is good to check out the shop if you have kids .

this was awesome to see the different animals the children loved it we went up and down and it was just great seeing different snakes and turtles and monkeys and giraffes you know the normal animals that we see at the zoo it was cool very cool

I am not typically a fan of zoos, but I had a great experience at Houston zoo. We had had a filling, healthy lunch at Macaw Cafe, and then started off to explore the animals. All of the exhibits were clean and well sized for the animals and zoo volunteers/staff were quick to stop the folks who wanted to tease the animals. Great, educational day overall. Parking is DIFFICULT and it was a bit confusing getting to the zoo and past the parks surrounding it, but Houston Zoo is totally worth the effort.

Houston Zoo is a very good zoo. I've visited several zoos in the country and Houston may not be the best, but is pretty good.

Not what it used to be.. petting zoo was a real bummer.

Beautiful place that inspires being responsible with one's actions to keep these animals thriving in the wild. I always love coming here

High quality fun place for all ages. Friendly and professional staff. Difficult to park.

Absolutely a perfect day. Lots of animals were out. Cypress cafe had a good lunch.

The signage at this zoo was the worst I have ever seen in any zoo. I have been to the zoo in cities all around the world. Never have I been so lost, and everyone I asked for help were just as lost as we were. We could see the frustration on the guests as well as the employees working in the park. Please go over the signs and make sure they are pointing in the right direction. Also add some signs that show guests are going in the correct direction. Place signs at cross roads so people turn on the correct direction. It was a frustrating and really cut down on the time we could stay at the exhibits.

Overall good experience but for the love of the Tiger there, PLEASE expand its exhibit and put another Tiger inside for companionship!!! The poor animal looked so sad and lonely just walking in circles; several other guests watching noticed as well. In fact, it seemed like a pattern with all of the animals that didn t have a companion in the exhibit. I pray in the future that their homes will be expanded for the health and happiness of these animals.

My best friend accompanied me when I was in college because I had an assignment that required going. I must say, it was fun! It does require a lot of walking and because the zoo is so big, I believe we only covered 1/4 of the zoo!

There were several things that I did not like about going, which are: I do not believe they offer any sort of transportation to get from one side of the zoo to the other. Which is a shame because it s so large and it takes a very long time walking. I also didn t enjoy the fact that there food stations were outside right next to a whole bunch of animals. Which I believe is unsanitary. It also made me feel uncomfortable. Finding parking is a bit difficult too and as I stated earlier, it s a lot of walking around.

Loved it!! Went on a school field trip. Have to go back on my own with the family to enjoy everything they have to offer. I hear for Christmas they have lights.

The animals look sad. Cages were tiny. The staff was great though.

Had a lovely time after 4 o clock when the rush was over. Only we were disappointed when all the drink and snack stands were closed at 4 when the zoo should be open another 3 hours. Petting zoo was closed too.

LOVE the adopt an animal and strict adherence to animal welfare and survival is extraordinary

I loved what I could see but a lot was closed off that I really wanted to see.

Love the lights. Parking was a headache. Overcrowded.

Pllp put 00 lol lllp0 sounds good right the last time you're going to stay with me and Aaron and they're going to

Fun zoo that is very easy to navigate. They used to have a crocodile exhibit with tons of crocodilians but it has since been removed. Not sure why. Plenty of restaurants and water fountains available to help one get through a hot, summer day.

I took my toddler and nine month old, and we were there all day and still didn't see everything. The Children's Zoo portion really is perfect for the kiddos, with a petting zoo, park, and other exhibits they can interact with. You're allowed to bring your own food and drinks, so you don't have to spend a fortune on lunch. Most of the zoo is stroller-friendly. Parking can be a hassle, so be prepared for a hike in and on the weekends the lot may be completely full.

Even during COVID my two sons, 8 and 3. Were able to have a blast there. We even got to hand feed a giraffe!! Definitely planning on going back before the year ends to check out some exhibits we missed!

Seems like zoo lights was less than previous years. But still beautiful.

Awesome Zoo! Well maintained, clean and super friendly place. Animals are beautiful, and there is plenty of them to see. People are welcome to bring their own food and drinks which is the first time I've seen any kind of public venue allowing this.
Parking is free in Herman park lots, you only need to come in a bit earlier and you won't have any problem finding a place.
I would highly recommend! We'll visit again some day.

Smallish zoo that we toured in 3-4 hours. We arrived at opening on a Sunday in mid- January. It was not crowded and were able to park in the free parking lot (I guess it fills quickly however). Elephants were in the barn but they had very close up viewing windows. They were getting a bath and vitamins. Very entertaining (but we followed another family back there otherwise we would have missed it). Lots of shade and cooling zones ( which we didn t need in January). Able to feed giraffe for extra $$ only at specific times (11am on the day we were there). Our only complaint was that a portion of the zoo was under construction which blocked some of the pathways. So there was only one way around the zoo which caused quite a bit of extra walking as we wanted to get back to giraffes at 11am but we were up front. Worth a visit.

We visited during Covid. Large portions of the Zoo are closed off, not surprisingly, but you feel a bit like the price should be reduced somewhat, accordingly. It was, though, REALLY fun to be there with so few other guests. We were able to stand in front of cages as long as we wanted with inconveniencing anyone else. We saw some good animal action. Lots of animals were just layimg around, but they were laying around where you could see them.

Great zoo with a good assortment of animals and really good for kids!

Visiting Zoo Lights was a beautiful and memorable experience. The entire park was lit up in beautiful, clolorful lights. We walked the whole park and there was something different along each pathway. The colorful dancing trees to Holiday music was front and center. The infinity tunnel and giant dragon was in other areas. Open until 10 pm, there were mostly adults and some children.

CANNOT recommend highly enough! This is one of the best zoos we've ever been to. We took our kids on a trip to Houston, and we loved it. A zoo is always a gamble, because it's a real all day commitment, but the Houston Zoo knocked it out of the park. Great place, especially for families.

Great place to visit solo or with your family. Don't worry if the parking lot looks packed, when you get inside the zoo it doesn't feel that way. Pay attention to the keeper talk times because they are awesome. It is better to get there early because the animals tend to sleep once it gets hot. If you have an extra $7-14, I would recommend paying for the giraffe feeding. There are two feedings per day, and the small line is worth the wait for this unique experience. Also, don't forget about the indoor exhibits. They are well thought out, and a great place to get out of the hot, Texas sun.

Not my favorite zoo. It s so hot and a lot of areas are not shaded. The flow is kind of odd too. It is pretty though

I love the Zoo. Its a great place to go for a nice long walk while seeing a some interesting sights. The carousel is super cute and the keeper talks are really interesting as well. They have a huge variety of animals and tasty foods at their cafes. I go whenever I get the chance. I cannot think of one time where I hated my experience at the Zoo. It was always the best time.

Great zoo with lots of animals and well maintained exhibits. Constantly upgrading and improving. We became members because it takes multiple trips to see everything.

Lots of fun. My 3 year old loves it. Especially the water area and petting zoo.

We love the zoo. We have been members for two years now and we try to go once a week. All of the zoo employees are always kind and helpful!

Nice zoo. Large exhibits. Some animals were not out due to weather but we saw anwide variety. Okiapi wasn't out but I got to see them in San Antonio. Could use better selection of the shirts in gift store. Great day overall

I have been in many zoos and they used to make me sad because the animals were in tiny spaces with poor living conditions, after the Houston zoo I can't stop wanting to visit! they have the best habitats and the animals look so happy they are always playing and it just bring up a big smile in my face just to think about this place

Pricing can seem a bit high, but remember where your money is going- straight back into supporting the animals housed there! We love all the exhibits and how there's a few indoor areas as well. Last trip we made they had some construction going on for a new area. I am looking forward to seeing the finished project!

Really nice structures, and cages. Clean. Great animal variety, remodeling going on ATM so it should be way nicer once done.

It definitely feels like Christmas! It is beautiful and captivating for both children of all ages and adults. You do have to be patient! Why? Parking is a pain. But, if this is meant to be a family affair then, parking has to be taken patiently. It will take you 10-15 minutes to find parking so, go bearing that in mind and it won't upset you. REMEMBER, this is about family time, couples time, a time to enjoy!

It was hella hot because I was smart enough to go in the middle of summer.

it was a good day for us it was very peaceful it wasn't too crowded and everybody got to enjoy themselves that day we're a family of four so I was about $100

The zoo is nice but the manager Natalie is very rude and has little to no customer service skills. I am positive she is racist. This woman made up her own version of what I told her and interrupted me while I was talking. She even accuses zoo guest of being liars even when she has evidence of what they are saying is true. On top of that, she will refuse to allow you to speak with her director. I am very disappointed. The aquarium has better service and never a hassle.

Pretty awesome zoo love to walk arround it. Animals are awesome very well kept, healthy and clean, also very well organized. Staff are very friendly and helpful they are very professional and knowledgeable about every animal.

Nice place to hangout with friends and family.It is one of the best places for family outings as well as to take kids along. The place in itself is a knowledge hub and the various exhibits depict the features of natural environment.Last week , i went here with my family and the kids in the family had a lot of fun along with learning. The best place for kids.

Awesome family place. Can't wait to come back again ...

We visited the Huston Zoo on February 1,2019. Despite the fact that they were doing construction and several exhibitions were closed. We had a blast and still got to see lots of things, even though we went during the off-season. The reason I chose 4 stars, is because it was a ghost town in many areas of the park. Not even offering a soda machine. Plus we were trying to make the smashed penny keepsakes and we went to, two separate venders that wouldn t trade our dollar bills for quarters. Other than that, highly recommend!! *Don t eat in the cafe unless you plan to drop a small fortune, on mediocre food at best.

Very well laid out and could get through it in a morning. Clean and in a great location. My son loved it. We might come back.

The weather is beautiful the day went fantastic we realy enjoyed.

The zoo was a really cool place. There are alot of exotic animals there. The zoo has a free day every first Tuesday of the month. You can bring in a cooler and snacks

Zoo closed early without updating the website, all aninals are sleeping

One of the best zoos we've been to (maybe on par with the national zoo in DC)

Not bad. Seems a lot of animals are "missing" from their regular places

We are getting an annual pass this summer because of how much we enjoy this zoo. The animals seem happy and playful. Staff was useful when I needed directions or help. There s so much to do and worth the entrance fee. The food in the on-site restaurant was good.

So much fun I go once a month and they are making a wetlands area so cool.

Alot of the good exhibits are closed. But good until next vacation.

I love the Houston zoo! They have a great variety of animals, it's very informational, and it's very kid friendly! The splash area is one of the best in Houston we've found and my son loves the other kids areas too.

Love our Zoo! We go early to assure parking spot. We also take snacks and drinks to save money. We are card carrying members...so we go pretty often. One of the best African exhibits we've ever seen.

This is awesome place to go spend time with the family . I m so said it closed right now...

I love the houston zoo it is amazing and there is so much to do here. If you come here good luck and have fun.

The beautiful winter lights will send you in an Aww..mode.loved it.

Enjoy the animals! Lots of great creatures to check out. Many of them are rescues.

Lovely zoo. Very expensive. The zoo used to be an affordable family activity

Beautiful zoo, very clean and easy to find your way around. The zoo had every animal out and it seemed the animals were happy whereas some zoos you go to it looks like they just want out.

I love the Houston zoo, zoo lights around Christmas time is very beautiful and awesome to see. I can't wait until all the improvements are done.

Very nice zoo. Friendly staff. Went on a Saturday morning and it wasn't very busy.. lots of cool little nooks and crannies to explore.. park was beautiful. They have several times where they feed the animals. Lots of different kinds of animals.. i would definitely go back to this zoo..

I love this zoo. With the addition of the gorilla really makes me want to come often. I've been to many zoos but the Houston zoo really is a lot better with many more varieties. The large space for the animals are much better. It is a good place for lots of family fun!

Wonderful!! The story of the elephants is so (I have no suitable extreme positive adjectives!!) Adorable and interesting together

Bought the membership and I'm telling y'all bypassing the lines in the heat was well worth it. Great views and very educational. We will bring a drink cooler next time as many of the service booths we closed. Wonderful overall and we will return.

This place is very good! Huge and beautiful! Take your cooler with water and ice, take big hats, and ice packages- you will love it. What was really nice, they have chilling rooms where you can rest and cool down on the hot Texas summer. All the stuff is very helpful and ready to take care of you. They also have many awesome locations for photo shoots and very beautiful trees!

I was on a school bus trip. The bus drivers are treated very badly by the Houston Zoo. We are not allowed to come in or park close enough to even use the restroom. It would have been a good day to go because it was cold enoigh for the animals to be out and playful.

Great place to make memories with the family! My family and I took the most advantage of an invitation from my company. I haven t been at the zoo since 10 years ago. I was greatly impressed with how much it has grown and how well the animals are kept. We had a great time! The only suggestion I have will be for the parking. This place needs a better parking area. If you arrive really early, 9ish, you will find a parking place. Apart from the parking, the zoo is a great place to enjoy with your family!!

It was nice didnt have very many big animals mostly small animals and birds.

Typical zoo. Most of the employees seem unlicensed and have no idea what they re doing or no experience whatsoever. It s almost animal abuse.Nothing unique or that stands out!! Smaller then expected!!! Overpriced frozen food and drinks. A lot of nasty people around. Nice animals and cages for the zoo in prisons them in!!!!

All the areas have been updated and was glad to have a beer while visiting the zoo animals.

It seems every time we come visit, the lions or tigers are always missing along with other big cats. Other than that it's still nice to bring family to walk around.