What is ZooNorth at the Dallas Zoo?

ZooNorth is the northern section of the Dallas Zoo featuring one of the country's top gorilla habitats, plus primates and seasonal events.

What is the ZooNorth Halloween event?

An October Halloween event at the zoo with trick-or-treating, themed decorations, and animal activities. One of Dallas's best fall family events.

How do I get ZooNorth Halloween tickets?

Buy tickets on the Dallas Zoo website well in advance , the event sells out. Zoo members get discounted pricing.

When is the best time to see the gorillas at ZooNorth?

Morning visits , gorillas are most active before the afternoon heat. By 1, 2pm they tend to rest in shaded areas.

Is ZooNorth included in regular Dallas Zoo admission?

Yes, ZooNorth is part of the main zoo. The ZooNorth Halloween event is a separately ticketed seasonal event.

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ZooNorth

Name: ZooNorth
Address: 650 S R.L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX, 75203, US
Telephone: +1 214-350-9416
Rating: 4.5

Rating

4.5(16)

Family of 4

$90, $140 standard zoo admission; ZooNorth Halloween event has separate pricing (~$25, $35/person)

Duration

2, 3 hours focused on this section

Best Ages

3, 13

About

ZooNorth is the northern section of the Dallas Zoo, and it houses one of the zoo's most compelling exhibits , the Gorilla Conservation Research Center, one of the largest gorilla habitats in the country. Watching the gorilla family from the viewing areas is a genuinely emotional experience: you'll observe complex social behaviors, playful young gorillas, and the sheer physical presence of silverbacks up close through reinforced glass.

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

Morning visits when gorillas are most active; Halloween season for ZooNorth event

Wait Times

Moderate on weekends; ZooNorth Halloween event has high demand , buy tickets early

Nearby Food

On-site zoo dining throughout; Oak Cliff neighborhood restaurants nearby

Why Kids Love It

ZooNorth is the Dallas Zoo's northern section featuring the gorilla habitat, kids are mesmerized watching the gorilla family interact, groom, and play. During the Halloween ZooNorth event, the entire section transforms with lights, trick-or-treating stations, and themed activities.

Pro Tips from Parents

The gorilla habitat here is one of the best in the country , budget extra time
Morning visits have the most gorilla activity before heat sets in
ZooNorth Halloween (October) is one of Dallas's best family fall events , buy tickets early
This section of the zoo is less crowded than the main entrance areas
Combine with Giants of the Savanna for the full Dallas Zoo experience