Houston Zoo Lights Parking: Tips and Alternatives

Zoo Core Editors Desk

Houston Zoo Lights Parking: Tips and Alternatives

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The Houston Zoo Lights event, presented by TXU Energy, is a popular holiday attraction that takes place from November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024. Due to its popularity, parking and traffic around Hermann Park can get busier than usual. This blog post will provide you with tips and alternative parking options to help you plan your visit to the Houston Zoo Lights.

Is Parking at the Houston Zoo Lights Event Usually Full?

Yes, parking at the Houston Zoo Lights event can be challenging, especially on weekends and holidays. The Zoo recommends exploring alternative options to avoid increased traffic and parking congestion.

Alternative Parking Options for Houston Zoo Lights

Houston Zoo Lights Parking

  1. Hermann Park Parking:
  2. Guests can park in lots G, F, E, H, and I, which are a 5-10 minute walk to the Zoo’s entrance.

  3. Lot C at Centennial Gardens is another option, but it is limited to three-hour parking and is a 15-20 minute walk to the Zoo’s front entrance.

  4. Houston Museum of Natural Science Parking Garage:

  5. This garage offers parking for a fee, with a discounted rate for HMNS members.

  6. Medical Center + Museum District Parking:

  7. Several surrounding parking garages offer paid parking, and you can reserve your spot using the ParkWhiz App.

  8. Rates vary for each garage.

  9. Rideshare:

  10. Use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to drop you off and pick you up at the Zoo’s main entrance, eliminating parking hassles.

  11. METRORail:

  12. Ride the Red Line and exit at Memorial Hermann Hospital/Houston Zoo.
  13. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk through the Commons in Hermann Park to the Zoo.

Shuttle Services for Houston Zoo Lights

While there are no specific shuttle services dedicated to the Houston Zoo Lights event, you can use the METRORail to travel through the Museum District. The Red Line will take you to the Memorial Hermann Hospital/Houston Zoo stop, from which you can walk to the Zoo.

Additional Tips for Houston Zoo Lights Parking

  1. Buy tickets early: Secure your spot and avoid higher prices on weekends and holidays.
  2. Arrive early: Plan ahead and consider carpooling or ridesharing to avoid traffic congestion.
  3. Use the Zoo Lights digital map: Navigate the Zoo Lights path with the interactive map on your smartphone.
  4. Order food ahead or pack your own snacks: Take advantage of online ordering or bring your own food to avoid long lines.

By considering these alternative parking options and tips, you can make the most of your Houston Zoo Lights visit and enjoy the festive atmosphere without the hassle of parking.

References:
– https://www.houstonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/guest-services/
– https://www.houstonzoo.org/blog/plan-your-zoo-lights-visit/
– https://www.houstonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/directions-parking/
– https://www.houstonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g56003-i148-k10493455-Houston_Zoo_parking_how_to_avoid_the_nightmare-Houston_Texas.html

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