Is the Fort Worth Zoo better than the Dallas Zoo?

Many DFW families who've visited both prefer Fort Worth for its newer, more immersive exhibits and consistently high rankings nationally.

What is MOLA at the Fort Worth Zoo?

The Museum of Living Art , one of the top reptile exhibits in the US, with over 100 species in naturalistic displays. A top even for non-reptile fans.

How long should we plan for the Fort Worth Zoo?

Plan 3, 5 hours for a full visit. With a tram ride, all major habitats, and a lunch break, budget a full half-day.

Is there parking at the Fort Worth Zoo?

Yes, paid parking on-site at $8, $10. Arrive early on busy weekends as the lot fills.

What are the best exhibits for young kids?

Texas Wild! for immersive Texas animals, the African Savanna giraffe feeding, and the children's zoo area for hands-on animal encounters.

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Fort Worth Zoo

Name: Fort Worth Zoo
Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Dallas, TX, 76110, US
Telephone: +1 817-759-7555
Rating: 4.6

Rating

4.6(14,994)

Family of 4

$90, $140 (2 adults ~$27 each, kids 3, 12 ~$22 each, parking ~$8, $10, food ~$25, $35)

Duration

3, 5 hours

Best Ages

2, 13

About

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the great American zoos , and it's only 35 minutes from downtown Dallas. Consistently ranked in the Top 5 zoos in the United States by both experts and visitors, it offers a level of habitat quality and exhibit design that genuinely rivals the best zoos in the country.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Yes

Nursing / Changing

Available

Kid Meals

Available

Setting

Indoor & Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings year-round; spring and fall for best weather; arrive at 10am opening

Wait Times

15, 30 min entry on busy weekends; animal encounter add-ons require advance booking

Nearby Food

On-site dining throughout the zoo; Fort Worth Cultural District restaurants 10 minutes away for post-zoo dining

Why Kids Love It

The Fort Worth Zoo consistently ranks in the Top 5 zoos in the United States, and you feel it immediately. The Texas Wild! section is a masterpiece of immersive habitat design, and the Museum of Living Art (MOLA) reptile house is unlike any reptile exhibit in the country. Kids are completely absorbed from the moment they walk in.

Pro Tips from Parents

MOLA (Museum of Living Art) reptile house is a Top 10 reptile exhibit in the US , don't skip it
Texas Wild! is the zoo's signature section , immersive Texas landscape habitats
The African Savanna habitat gives giraffe feeding and close elephant encounters
Tram rides are available for families with tired little legs , worth the small fee
Arrive at 10am opening for the best animal activity before midday heat

What to Bring

Packed lunch to save money
Sunscreen and hats
Stroller or wagon for toddlers
Water bottles
Membership card if applicable

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

$90, $140 (2 adults ~$27 each, kids 3, 12 ~$22 each, parking ~$8, $10, food ~$25, $35)

Tips to Save

Zoo membership pays for itself in 2 visits; look for AAA discounts; children under 3 free; pack your own food to save $20+; Monday, Wednesday visits are typically less crowded