El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens - San Juan Capistrano, California.
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El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens

4.3
·8k reviews·El Paso, United States

A 35-acre zoological park featuring diverse African, American, and Asian species in naturalistic habitats, plus botanical gardens and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens - San Juan Capistrano, California.

El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 35-acre zoological park featuring diverse African, American, and Asian species in naturalistic habitats, plus botanical gardens and family fun.

4.3
(8k reviews)

"It's a zoo, surprise, honestly it's a decent zoo I've been to better also to worse."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Swim Gear! 🩳

Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the splash pad – kids love it!

Membership Value 💰

Annual memberships are a great deal for locals or frequent visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

African Lion Exhibit

African Lion Exhibit

Africa section

Witness the majestic lions in their habitat, a thrilling sight for all ages.

Penguin Splash

Penguin Splash

Penguin exhibit

Watch these charming birds waddle and dive in their aquatic playground.

Botanical Gardens Oasis

Botanical Gardens Oasis

Throughout the zoo

Explore diverse plant life, offering a tranquil escape and beautiful photo opportunities.

Splash Pad Fun

Splash Pad Fun

Children's area

A perfect spot for kids to cool off and play on warmer days.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

El Paso's desert climate means it gets hot! Plan your visit for cooler mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially if you want to avoid school groups.

Membership Perks & Encounters

Consider an annual membership if you're a local or plan multiple visits; it's often cost-effective. For a special treat, look into animal encounters like the penguin experience – they're highly recommended for a memorable day!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Animals more active, less heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Family fun before peak
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Un día diferente en familia ❤️‍🩹🫶🏻 #zoo #familyfun #elpasotx #visitelpaso #recommendations #texas #familytime #niños #thingstodo #entertainment #toddlermom #momoftiktok #mom #activity #zoo #kidstiktok
@daniellahernandezp
239 likes • 12.7K views

Bring Swim Gear! 🩳

Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the splash pad – kids love it! TikTok

Membership Value 💰

Annual memberships are a great deal for locals or frequent visitors. Reddit

El Paso Zoo #creatorsearchinsights #elpasozoo #elpaso #elpasotx #elpasotexas #animals #animalsoftiktok #zo #fun #giraffes #monkey #fyp #fy #fypage #fypシ゚viral
@_paomuro
5.8K likes • 123.3K views
🌊🐟 Exciting news from The El Paso Zoo & Botanical Gardens! We're thrilled to welcome a vibrant new group of koi, generously donated by Aceitunas Beer Garden! 🎉 After a successful 30-day quarantine for our first eight koi, they're now thriving in the serene Asia habitat. 🏞️💚 With cascading waterfalls and lush foliage, our koi are living their best lives—talk about #FishGoals! 😍🐠 As Colby Shannon ...
elpasozoo
382 likes • 12.2K views

Animal Encounters 🐧

Consider a paid encounter for a unique, memorable experience. Penguin encounters are a hit! Reddit

Hydrate & Shade ☀️

El Paso gets hot! Bring water bottles and seek shade, especially during summer. TikTok

🌿🦁 Exciting news from the El Paso Zoo! The City of El Paso proudly announces that the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens has achieved sensory inclusion certification through KultureCity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating sensory-inclusive environments for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This certification marks a significant step towards greater accessibility and inclusivity fo...
iam_elpaso
685 likes • 14.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Swim Gear! 🩳

Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the splash pad – kids love it! TikTok

Membership Value 💰

Annual memberships are a great deal for locals or frequent visitors. Reddit

Animal Encounters 🐧

Consider a paid encounter for a unique, memorable experience. Penguin encounters are a hit! Reddit

Hydrate & Shade ☀️

El Paso gets hot! Bring water bottles and seek shade, especially during summer. TikTok

Check for Closures 🚧

Some areas might be under maintenance; check ahead or ask staff. Reddit

Share Info with Guests 👋

Visitors are friendly and often share tips about animal sightings and closures. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the El Paso Zoo to be a decent and enjoyable family-friendly destination with a good variety of animals and attractions like a splash pad and carousel. While some sections might be under maintenance or animals may not always be visible, the friendly staff and unique animal encounters, such as the penguin experience, often leave a positive impression. The zoo is also praised for its botanical gardens and its commitment to accessibility.

"It's a zoo, surprise, honestly it's a decent zoo I've been to better also to worse. You can never predict if the animals are going to be active or not. I was sad to hear about the loss of a giraffe I was told there were still 3 there but we never saw them. When we went to the zoo had a few sections down for maintenance and repair but it didn't dampen the experience much. I liked how people in the park were passing along info to fellow guests about closures and better spots to see an animal very friendly. Bonus info You can purchase a ticket to get a face-to-face with a few of the animals for $40.00. We opted for the penguins encounter and it was great! They gave us instructions on how and where we could pet the penguins amazing experience I would highly recommend it if you want to do something a little more memorable. The staff was friendly and helpful."

Jerry W

"The Zoo is always a fun place to visit and enjoy the company of wonderful animals, cool down in the splash pad, take a ride on the carousel 🎠 ride, run around the playground and indulge in a tasty treat. Love making memories with my family! 🦒 🦓 🐅 🐦"

Bonbon Sainz

"Nice family friendly fun but could be better. Many of the animals were nowhere to be found. Loads 9f attractions were closed for myriad reasons. We had fun but we left feeling a little underwhelmed"

Nwachukwu Onyeaso

What People Like

Family-friendly atmosphere
Splash pad and playground
Penguin encounter experience

What People Dislike

Animals not always visible
Sections under maintenance
Gift shop selection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The El Paso Zoo is located at 3300 Desert Blvd N, El Paso, TX 79930. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the zoo. TikTok

Yes, the zoo offers parking for visitors. It's generally ample, but can fill up on busy days, especially weekends and holidays. Arriving earlier can help secure a good spot. TikTok

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a viable option for reaching the El Paso Zoo. Drivers can drop you off at the main entrance, making it a convenient choice if you're not driving yourself. TikTok

Yes, there are several hotels located near the El Paso Zoo, offering various price points and amenities. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. TikTok

From downtown El Paso, you can typically take I-10 West and then exit onto Desert Blvd. Follow signs for the zoo. It's a straightforward drive, usually taking around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but generally, adult admission is around $12-$15, with discounts for seniors and children. It's always best to check the official El Paso Zoo website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance. TikTok

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the zoo's entrance. However, buying tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to save time and potentially secure your entry. TikTok

Absolutely! The El Paso Zoo offers annual memberships which can be very cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple times a year. It often includes perks like free admission and discounts. Reddit

The zoo's hours can vary seasonally. Generally, it's open from morning to late afternoon. Always check the official El Paso Zoo website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. TikTok

The El Paso Zoo is committed to accessibility and has achieved sensory inclusion certification. Many paths are paved and accessible, and they offer resources for visitors with sensory sensitivities. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular animals include the lions, giraffes, monkeys, and penguins. Keep an eye out for the African elephants and various reptiles. The variety of species offers something for everyone. TikTok+1

Yes! The zoo features a popular splash pad (bring swim gear!), a carousel, and a playground, making it a fantastic spot for family fun and keeping children entertained. TikTokReddit

Generally, feeding the animals is not permitted to ensure their health and safety. However, the zoo may offer special feeding experiences or encounters for an additional fee. Reddit

The penguin encounter is a special, paid experience where you can get up close with the penguins, learn about them, and even pet them under staff supervision. It's highly recommended for a unique memory. Reddit

Information on stroller and wheelchair rentals can usually be found on the zoo's official website or by contacting them directly. It's a good idea to check in advance if you plan to rent one. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The zoo has several food service locations offering snacks, meals, and treats. Options often include burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Some visitors have praised the Cajun fries. Reddit

Typically, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages into the zoo. This is a great way to save money and cater to specific dietary needs. Check the zoo's policy for any restrictions. TikTok

While specific menus can change, most zoos offer some basic options like salads or sides that can be adapted. It's best to inquire at the food stands or check the zoo's website for detailed menu information. Reddit

Many visitors find the food stops convenient for a quick bite. The Cajun fries have been mentioned positively. For a more relaxed meal, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in designated areas. Reddit

Yes, you can usually find a variety of beverages, including coffee, soda, and water, at the food concessions throughout the zoo. Staying hydrated is key in El Paso's climate. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The botanical gardens offer lush backdrops, while animal exhibits provide dynamic subjects. The koi pond in the Asia habitat and the giraffe enclosure are particularly photogenic. Instagram

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged! Capture your favorite animals and family moments. However, professional photography may require special permits. TikTok

A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing animals from a distance. For close-ups, a macro lens can be great for plant details in the botanical gardens. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for group shots. TikTok

Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in animal exhibits to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for signage at each exhibit and be mindful of the animals' well-being. TikTok

While the zoo is primarily focused on its inhabitants, some elevated points might offer glimpses of the surrounding landscape. Exploring the botanical garden areas might provide scenic views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The El Paso Zoo is a fantastic choice for families. The splash pad is a must-do on warm days – bring swimsuits and towels! TikTok Kids will also love the playground and carousel. Reddit Many parents share videos of their children's excitement seeing animals like monkeys and penguins. TikTok+1 The zoo's recent sensory inclusion certification makes it a more comfortable experience for children with sensory sensitivities. Instagram

Consider an animal encounter, like the penguin experience, for an extra special treat that kids will talk about for ages. Reddit The zoo's manageable size is also a plus for little legs. Plan for a morning visit to beat the heat and crowds, and don't forget snacks and water, though food is available for purchase. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the El Paso Zoo offers good value. Packing your own picnic is a great way to save on food costs, as outside food is generally permitted. Reddit If you plan to visit more than once a year, an annual membership can be significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets repeatedly. Reddit Look for weekday visits to avoid higher weekend crowds and potentially enjoy a more relaxed experience without the premium pricing often associated with peak times. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The El Paso Zoo provides ample opportunities for photographers. The botanical gardens offer beautiful, lush backdrops and intricate plant details, perfect for macro shots or scenic compositions. Instagram Animal exhibits, from the majestic lions to the playful penguins, offer dynamic subjects. TikTok+1 Remember to avoid flash photography in animal areas to protect the animals' well-being. TikTok Consider a versatile zoom lens to capture wildlife from various distances and a wide-angle lens for capturing the overall zoo atmosphere or group photos. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the El Paso Zoo

The El Paso Zoo is a manageable size, making it easy to explore in a few hours, though you can easily spend a full day if you take your time. Visitors often note that some animals might not be visible at all times, so patience is key. Reddit The zoo is divided into different zones, showcasing animals from various continents, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This thematic layout helps visitors learn about different ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider the weather. El Paso can get very hot, so early morning or late afternoon visits are often recommended to avoid the peak heat and potentially see more active animals. TikTok The zoo also offers a splash pad, which is a huge hit with kids on warm days – don't forget to pack swimsuits and towels! TikTok For a more intimate experience, consider booking one of the animal encounters, like the popular penguin encounter, which offers a unique opportunity to interact with the animals. Reddit

Family Fun and Kid-Friendly Activities

The El Paso Zoo is a top destination for families, with numerous attractions designed to delight younger visitors. The splash pad is a standout feature, providing a fun way for children to cool off and burn energy. TikTok Beyond the water play, the zoo boasts a playground and a carousel, ensuring there are plenty of options for entertainment. Reddit Many TikTok videos highlight the joy of family outings at the zoo, emphasizing the creation of lasting memories. TikTok+1

Parents often appreciate the zoo's commitment to being kid-friendly. The manageable size means little legs don't have to trek too far, and the variety of animals keeps children engaged. TikTok The zoo's recent certification as a sensory-inclusive environment further enhances its appeal to families, making it a more welcoming space for children with sensory sensitivities. Instagram From observing playful monkeys to watching majestic giraffes, the El Paso Zoo offers an enriching and enjoyable experience for the entire family. TikTok

Botanical Gardens and Natural Beauty

Beyond its animal inhabitants, the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a green oasis in the desert landscape. The botanical gardens are integrated throughout the zoo, offering a beautiful and diverse collection of plant life. Instagram Visitors can wander through themed areas, discovering various species of flora that complement the animal exhibits. These gardens provide not only aesthetic appeal but also educational opportunities about plant ecosystems. TikTok

The lush foliage and serene atmosphere of the botanical sections offer a tranquil escape from the more bustling animal viewing areas. They are also excellent spots for photography, providing natural backdrops and vibrant colors. Instagram Whether you're admiring the exotic plants or simply enjoying a moment of peace, the botanical gardens add another layer of richness to the zoo experience, showcasing the interconnectedness of plant and animal life. TikTok

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