San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium

San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium which includes mangroves, forests and landscape views
Come and see over 800 species at this centrally located zoo that’s suitable for the whole family.

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.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Airport
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Airport
2.5 out of 5
850 Halm Blvd, San Antonio, TX
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Airport
Riverwalk Plaza
Riverwalk Plaza
4 out of 5
100 Villita Street, Dwyer/Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Riverwalk Plaza
Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
3.5 out of 5
105 N Alamo, San Antonio, TX
Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
Menger Hotel
Menger Hotel
3.5 out of 5
204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Menger Hotel
Hotel Contessa
Hotel Contessa
4 out of 5
306 W Market Street, San Antonio, TX
Hotel Contessa
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk
3 out of 5
303 Blum Street, San Antonio, TX
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk
Crockett Hotel
Crockett Hotel
3 out of 5
320 Bonham, San Antonio, TX
Crockett Hotel
Omni La Mansion del Rio
Omni La Mansion del Rio
4 out of 5
112 College St, San Antonio, TX
Omni La Mansion del Rio
Sonesta ES Suites San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza
Sonesta ES Suites San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza
3 out of 5
425 Bonham, San Antonio, TX
Sonesta ES Suites San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza
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.