A zoo just off I-35E, three miles south of downtown Dallas. It's Sensory Inclusive Certified by KultureCity, with sensory bags to borrow at no charge, named Quiet Zones and Headphone Zones on its digital map, and a Sensory Friendly Night during Dallas Zoo Lights.
Sensory supports. Sensory bags, Quiet Zones and Headphone Zones.
Hours
Usually 9 am to 5 pm daily; hours of 9 am to 4 pm may apply in certain summer and winter months, and your entry time shows when you buy tickets online. Open every day except Christmas Day. Dallas Zoo Lights runs on select nights from November 13 to January 3, 5:30 to 9 pm, and is closed December 24 and 25.
650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway (I-35E), Dallas, TX 75203
“Sensory bags are available for guests to check out free of charge the day of their visit by visiting the Information Booth just inside the Zoo gates.”
“Signage is placed throughout the Zoo indicating areas where there may be sensory challenges as well as quiet spaces for relaxing.”
“Calm, low-stimulation areas with reduced noise and activity, ideal for resting or taking a sensory break.” map.dallaszoo.com
The Dallas Zoo is Sensory Inclusive Certified by KultureCity. The sensory bags are made for both adults and children and include fidget tools, noise-reducing headphones and visual cue cards.
The zoo's digital map shows these Quiet Zones and also marks nine Headphone Zones where kids who are sensitive to noise may feel more comfortable with headphones on.
The map also marks two Smell Zones, at the gorillas and the maned wolves, where strong animal scents may be present.
whether a caregiver or aide gets in free on a regular visit (an aide who is required for the child to take part is free for Education Programs and Camps, and for field trips booked through the Education Department)
Tickets start at $18 and vary by date; children 2 and under get in free. Parking is $15; buy it with your tickets online or pay at the parking gates. Members get free admission.
With a valid military ID, you get $2 off general admission for up to 2 adults and 2 children; show your ID at the ticket booth. It's valid only at the gate, can't be combined with other discounts, and isn't offered in July, August and the first three days of September.
Tickets aren't refundable, but the zoo will exchange them for another day: call Guest Services at 469.554.7501 or email Tickets@DallasZoo.com.
The main lower parking lot is closest to the Main Entrance and has ADA-compliant accessible parking spaces; other lots, including the Elephant and Tiger Lot and the new garage, have clearly marked accessible parking. Go to the main entrance and staff will direct you to the best available parking. By train, take the DART Red Line to the Dallas Zoo Station.
The zoo encourages guests to limit in-and-outs, but you may go back to your car if you forgot something you need for your visit.
You're welcome to bring your own stroller, wagon or wheelchair. Rentals at the Gift Shop just inside the front gate, first come, first served: double stroller $15, manual wheelchair $15, electric wheelchair with canopy $35.
The Comfort Station in the Guest Services building, next to the Gift Shop, is a quiet, private space with seating and power outlets for pumping. Family restrooms are at Wonders of the Wild Amphitheater, Destination: Dinosaurs (just inside the entrance), Wildflower Ridge near the Monarch Express Mini-Train, Serengeti Grill, Base Camp and Simmons Hippo Outpost. The digital map marks First Aid.
Service animals are welcome; check in at Guest Services when you arrive. Pets and emotional support animals aren't allowed.
Dallas Zoo Lights: over two million lights, lanterns and musical performances. General admission starts at $19, and the $15 parking is separate (free for members). Most animals go to bed before the lights come on.
