What is the Austin Zoo and what is its mission?

The Austin Zoo is a private, nonprofit rescue zoo and animal sanctuary located on 15 scenic acres in the Texas Hill Country. Its mission is to assist animals in need through rescue, conservation, and education.

What kinds of animals can you see at the zoo?

The zoo houses more than 300 animals representing over 100 different species. Visitors can see animals such as African lions, Bengal tigers, cougars, three species of monkeys, black bears, ring-tailed lemurs, and porcupines.

How much does admission cost?

General admission is $19.95 for adults; $18.95 for students, military, and seniors aged 60 and older; $16.95 for children; and $12.95 for guests of members. Tickets can be purchased in advance on their website or at the gift shop upon arrival.

What are the hours of operation?

The zoo is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, and Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Keep in mind that admissions close one hour prior to the zoo's closing time each day.

Is parking free at the zoo?

Yes, parking at the zoo is free and conveniently located on site.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Austin Zoo in Austin

Austin Zoo

Located on 15 scenic acres in the Texas Hill Country, Austin Zoo is a nonprofit rescue sanctuary. Home to over 300 rescued animals, it offers a rustic haven dedicated to conservation and education.

Open prototype

Official site

Get directions

What to know

Founded in 1999 as a humble goat ranch and animal rescue, the Austin Zoo transitioned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2000. Located at 10808 Rawhide Trail in southwestern unincorporated Travis County, just west of Austin, this unique sanctuary spans 15 scenic acres in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Unlike traditional zoos, its core mission is to assist animals in need through a dedicated focus on rescue, conservation, and education. Today, this charming and rustic haven is home to more than 300 animals representing over 100 different species. Visitors can observe a diverse array of residents, including African lions, Bengal tigers, cougars, three species of monkeys, black bears, ring-tailed lemurs, and porcupines. The zoo's popularity has grown steadily over the years, welcoming 232,000 visitors in 2017 alone. Each animal at the zoo has a story of rescue and rehabilitation. One of the most famous residents is Zulema, a blue-eyed white tiger. Discovered by DEA agents in a cramped cage during a raid, Zulema was brought to the zoo, where she now lives in a spacious, natural habitat and enjoys splashing in her pool. The zoo operates year-round, offering a family-friendly experience that typically takes about three hours if you participate in zookeeper chats, animal feeding times, and the on-site train ride. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the website or upon arrival at the gift shop, with convenient free parking located on site.

Visitor tips

Purchase tickets online in advance or buy them at the gift shop when you arrive.
Take advantage of the free on-site parking available at the entrance.
Arrive early, as daily admissions close exactly one hour before the zoo's closing time.
Plan for a three-hour visit if you want to catch zookeeper chats, animal feedings, and the train ride.

Nearby context

Tucked away at 10808 Rawhide Trail in southwestern unincorporated Travis County, the Austin Zoo sits in the scenic, rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country, west of Austin's bustling downtown. This peaceful, rustic setting provides a natural backdrop that perfectly aligns with the sanctuary's rescue and conservation efforts, offering visitors a quiet escape into nature.

Quick facts