The Gladys Porter Zoo is an oasis nestled in the center of Brownsville, Texas. With 26 acres of lush tropical plants and some 1,500 animals, the Gladys Porter Zoo is known for its successes in breeding endangered species of wildlife. Opened in 1971 as one of the first zoos in the country with no barred cages, most animal species are displayed in settings that closely resemble their own natural habitats. In a mere ¾ mile trek, a visitor will encounter a diverse ensemble of 377 species of animals and 225 species of plants. The park is divided into four zoogeographic areas: Africa, Asia, Tropical America, and Indo-Australia. There is also a Herpetarium and Aquatic Wing, a Free-flight Aviary, Bear Grottos, and a California Sea Lion exhibit. Small World features a nursery along with an animal contact yard, where children can touch and interact with domesticated animals. Large numbers of native wild birds find sanctuary on the Zoo grounds, drawn to the native plants and waterways that provide them with food and a place to rear their young.

Zoo Hours
Open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. with extended summer hours. Visitors may stay on the grounds until dusk.

Tour Train
The Safari Express II runs each Sunday; approximately every hour from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. weather permitting. Adults $2.00, children (2 - 13) $1.00. The train may also be reserved for groups; reservations must be made two weeks in advance. Prices subject to change.

Additional Services
For your convenience, our concession stands offer a wide variety of food and beverages. (Sorry, food may not be brought into the Zoo.) Strollers, wheelchairs, and wagons are available for rent at the Zoofari Gift Shop. All facilities are accessible by wheelchair. Parking is just $2.00 in our controlled access lot, space permitting. And don't forget to visit the Zoofari Gift Shop and pick up a souvenir from the Zoo!

Admission
Adults: $9.00
Seniors (Over 65): $7.50
Children (2-13): $6.00
Under 2 years: Free

500 Ringgold St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
General Information: 956-546-7187
http://www.gps.org

20% discount for groups of 10 or more, AAA and AARP members. VZS members are always admitted free during regular Zoo hours. Special rates and educational opportunities are available for school groups. Call the Education Department at 956-548-WILD (9453) for more information. Prices subject to change.