Looking for fun family activities near Houston? Bayou Wildlife Zoo is a unique and exciting destination for animal lovers of all ages. Located in Alvin, TX, this wildlife park allows visitors to get up close and personal with animals from around the world. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at all you need to know about the Bayou Wildlife Zoo, including its history, attractions, and practical information for visitors.
History of Bayou Wildlife Zoo
The Bayou Wildlife Zoo was founded in 1967 by a group of Texas ranchers who wanted to preserve the natural beauty of their land and educate the public about the importance of conservation. Over the years, the zoo has expanded to include a variety of exotic animals, many of which were rescued or donated by private owners and other zoos.
Attractions at Bayou Wildlife Zoo
One of the most unique aspects of the Bayou Wildlife Zoo is its drive-through safari. Visitors can hop on board a tram to explore the park’s 80 acres of rolling hills and lush greenery. As you make your way through the park, you’ll encounter animals from all over the world, including giraffes, zebras, camels, ostriches, and more. Most animals are free to roam and interact with each other, providing visitors with an authentic wildlife experience – Don’t worry, the crocodiles are safely enclosed for your safety 😉
In addition to the tram safari, the Bayou Wildlife Zoo also offers a variety of other attractions, including:
- Addie Lou’s Barnyard: This area allows visitors to see typical farm animals to exotic and rare animals. In the barnyard, you will be able to encounter a Wallaby, Kangaroos, Prairie Dogs, Foxes, Sheep, Llamas, Pygmy Goats, Lemurs and much more! interact with friendly farm animals, such as goats, sheep, and llamas.
- The Big Red Barn: Visitors will be able to meet the giraffes, bottle-fed baby goats, and even a sloth! During our visit, we waited in the Barn while the next tram ride was ready to take us on our safari.
- Educational programs: The Bayou Wildlife Zoo offers a variety of educational programs for schools, scouts, and other groups, designed to teach visitors about the importance of conservation and wildlife preservation.
Practical Information for Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to the Bayou Wildlife Zoo, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Hours of operation: The zoo is open every day except Christmas Day. Hours vary depending on the season, so be sure to check the park’s website here before your visit. My family and I visited the zoo on a Thursday afternoon and it wasn’t extremely busy.
- Admission fees: Admission fees vary depending on the age of the visitor and the attractions they wish to see. Children 2 and under are free, Children 2-11 years: $15; Ages 12 – 64: $25; Seniors 65+: $22. Discounts are available for groups and military personnel. Annual passes are also available from $75-$100. The Zoo also provides buckets of animal feed at a fee of $5 to feed the animals while on the tram ride.
- Food and beverages: The Bayou Wildlife Zoo has several picnic areas throughout the park where visitors can enjoy their own food and beverages. The park also has a concession stand that sells snacks and drinks.
- Gift shop: The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and stuffed animals. Proceeds from the gift shop help support the zoo’s conservation efforts.
- Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.
Final Thoughts
The Bayou Wildlife Zoo is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a unique and educational wildlife experience for visitors of all ages. From the drive-through safari to the petting zoo, there’s something for everyone at this park. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend the day with family and friends, the Bayou Wildlife Zoo is definitely worth a visit. With its commitment to conservation and education, this zoo is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
XOXO,
Diana Colibri
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