The Houston Zoo offers free admission on specific days and under certain conditions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding the zoo’s free admission policies can help you plan your visit and save money.
Free Tuesday Afternoon
The Houston Zoo provides free admission on the first Tuesday of each month from September to May, from noon until closing. However, online reservations are required for all non-member guests, and tickets will not be available at the gate. This offer does not include Zoo Lights, the carousel, giraffe feeding, or other events and attractions.
Free Zoo Days
The Houston Zoo also offers Free Zoo Days presented by ExxonMobil once a month, on the first Tuesday of each month, from open until closing. Again, online reservations are required for all non-member guests, and tickets will not be available at the gate. Admission to Zoo Lights is not included, and other attractions like the carousel and giraffe feeding are available at regular price.
Student Discounts
Registered students from specific universities (University of Houston, Rice University, St. Thomas University, and Texas Southern University) can get one free general admission ticket per visit with a valid current student ID.
Other Discounts
The Houston Zoo offers several other discounts to visitors:
- CityPASS Discount: CityPASS tickets save 50% on admission to Houston’s top 5 attractions, including the Houston Zoo.
- Group Discounts: Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more, with varying discounts for adults, children, and seniors.
- Corporate Discounts: The Houston Zoo offers ticket and membership discounts to employees of Corporate Partners.
- U.S. Military Discounts: U.S. veterans and active military receive 50% off general admission tickets for up to five guests all year long.
Membership Benefits
Members of the Houston Zoo enjoy free daytime admission for an entire year and other benefits.
General Information
- Hours: The zoo is open 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last admission at 4:00 pm.
- Parking: Free parking is available in Hermann Park, but it is limited, and public transportation is recommended.
Food and Beverages
- Dining Options: The zoo offers various dining options, including Cypress Circle Café, food trucks, and Twiga Café.
- Outside Food: Guests can bring their own outside food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Additional Details
- Hand Sanitizer: Free hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the zoo.
- Online Ordering: Food can be ordered online for quick pick-up at Cypress Circle Café.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: Not provided.
- Email: [email protected] (for membership inquiries) and [email protected] (for group reservations).
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Houston Zoo’s free admission policies and discounts can help you save money and enjoy a day of fun and exploration. Remember to plan ahead, make reservations, and take advantage of the various free and discounted options available.
References
Houston Museum District. (2017). Free Tuesday Afternoon. Retrieved from https://houmuse.org/explore/events/free-tuesday-afternoon/
The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). Prices and Discounts. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/prices-and-discounts/
Houston Zoo Web Store. (n.d.). Ticket Selection. Retrieved from https://tickets.houstonzoo.org/webstore/shop/viewitems.aspx?CG=GA&C=GADiscountEVENTS
The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). Free Zoo Days Presented by ExxonMobil. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/prices-and-discounts/free-tuesdays/
The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). Welcome to the Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/were-ready-to-welcome-you-back-to-the-zoo/.