The San Antonio Zoo is Named Top 10 for Parent Friendliness

The San Antonio Zoo has been one of Texas' best secrets since 1914. However, since the zoo was recently ranked in Parent magazine's Top 10 Parent Friendly Zoo's in April of 2009 and the nomination for Nickelodeon's Parent's Picks Awards, this hidden gem's secret is out.

However, just because this San Antonio secret is out, does not mean you should not take the time to explore this amazing zoo. In addition to more than 3,500 animals set upon 56 acres, there are many programs, classes and events to participate. For the more adventurous, you can travel off the zoo property to another hidden treasure of San Antonio, to Government Canyon for a nature hike led by a zoo naturalist.

The zoo's newest attraction, Africa Live!, is the closest you'll get to an African safari without buying a plane ticket. In addition to the animals, plants and people of Africa, the goal of this exhibit is to teach the visitor water conservation and the environmental challenges that Africa faces. The Hippopotamus exhibit is magnificent. Set up like an aquarium, you can look through the thick windows and view these remarkable animals in their underwater environment. While traveling through Africa Live! you can visit the Nanyuki Market where you can purchase some of Africa's unique treasures.

Your children will love the interaction with animals all over the zoo. Some of the extraordinary things your children can do at the San Antonio Zoo include feeding the birds at Lori's Landing, walking among hundreds of butterflies at the Caterpillar Flight School or crawling underground to visit earthworms and prairie dogs at the Discovery House's Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot. There is more to do at the San Antonio Zoo than there is daylight!

Adults will enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the zoo. The paths do not have steep inclines as many zoos have and there is plenty of shade. The walk you experience is serene and enjoyable. The zoo exhibits are very well kept and the animals are usually easily viewed. San Antonio's year-round mild climate often keeps the animals active for longer periods of the day and allows the zoo to remain open 365 days a year.

The relationship that the San Antonio Zoo has with the community and surrounding environment is well maintained. The zoo offers educational opportunities for teachers and their classes, summer camps for kids and business conference centers. There is definitely something for everyone at the San Antonio Zoo!

Resources

San Antonio Zoo Website