Best time to visit
Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.
Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
Every animal here is a rescue with a backstory, and your ticket helps care for them at this welfare-focused Hill Country zoo.
Set in the hills outside Austin, this zoo runs as a sanctuary rather than a conventional collection, giving rescued animals a permanent home.
What you'll see and do - Meet rescue animals in diverse habitats, each with its own story. - Catch zookeeper chats and feed some of the animals directly. - Ride the zoo train and book private animal encounters with select species. - Bring a picnic to enjoy in the Picnic Grove between exhibits. - Look into educational programs, from kids' camps to family nature series and scout programs.
2026-05-23 - 2026-05-25
Free admission for active-duty military members and veterans with valid ID.
2026-02-02
Registration for summer camp opens for non-members.
2026-03-14 - 2026-03-22
2026-03-18
Food truck on site from 11am-2pm.
2026-04-04
2026-04-18
Hosted by SCBWI Austin Chapter from 12pm-4pm.
2026-06-01
2026-06-20
2026-08-07
2026-08-31
2026-09-07
2026-09-19
Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Austin Zoo.
Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.
All ages
Onsite or nearby parking available at 10808 Rawhide Trail.
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.
Austin Zoo
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 6/23/2026
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