In 1914, local businessman and philanthropist Colonel George W. Brackenridge bought a piece of land which he filled with lions, bears, monkeys and buffalo. He then donated it to the city and it became the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium. Located in the 138-hectare Brackenridge Park, the zoo neighbours a golf course, a recreational area and Spanish Colonial and Civil War archaeological sites.
Nowadays, the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, which spans over 14 hectares, is home to over 9,000 mammals, reptiles, birds and sea creatures. Notably it boasts one of the most effective breeding programmes for endangered species in the country. Some of the species it has helped to repopulate are white rhinos, whooping cranes, Caribbean flamingos and snow leopards. Since the 1970s, over 50 snow leopards have been born in the San Antonio Zoo, all of which have been re-introduced to their natural habitat or given to other zoos.
With so much to see and do, the best way to kick start your visit is with a trip on the Eagle Train. This fun locomotive journey will help you get to grips with all there is on offer. When you step off the train, make sure to catch Exciting Encounters where you can watch keepers feed and engage with monkeys, hippos, alligators and elephants. Don't worry if you miss a show as they are scheduled regularly throughout the day.
A favourite attraction at the zoo has to be the Richard Friedrich Aquarium. Come see a multitude of sea creatures including jellyfish, piranhas and turtles. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the two-headed baby turtle called Thelma & Louise!
Other popular spots to visit include the wild African plain and a rainforest brimming with butterflies (open March through November). For a small fee you can purchase some feed for the rainbow lorikeets and have them perch on your shoulder.
Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot is the perfect spot for younger children. It has its very own aquarium, a garden with chickens and a reptile exhibit featuring lizards, snakes and even alligators! It also boasts both an indoor and outdoor play area.
With so much to see and do at the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, you will want to spend the whole day so arrive early to avoid queues. If you fancy a quick snack or a hot meal, there are a range of cafés and restaurants available to suit your needs. Alternatively you can bring a packed lunch.
San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium Tours and Activities
Visit San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium
Tours & day trips
See all 83 activitiesOpens in new tabBest of San Antonio Tour
Activity duration is 4 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 41 reviews
Free cancellation available
Attractions
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabHopscotch Immersive Art Experience
Activity duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 9 reviews
Free cancellation available
Private & custom tours
See all 11 activitiesOpens in new tabSan Antonio Haunted History Tour
Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabDining at Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio
Activity duration is 2 hours
5.8 out of 10 with 12 reviews
Free cancellation available
Holiday & seasonal tours
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabSan Antonio: Historical Ghost Tour
Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Top San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium Hotel & Accommodation Deals
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La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk
303 Blum Street, San Antonio, TX
Riverwalk Plaza
100 Villita Street, Dwyer/Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Hotel Contessa
306 W Market Street, San Antonio, TX
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
105 S Saint Marys Street, San Antonio, TX
Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk
123 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.