The Dallas Zoo: Dallas’ hidden jewel

by Shawn Williams of Dallas South

During Spring Break, I posted on my Facebook page that I was taking my son to the zoo. “That’s great, I love the Fort Worth Zoo,” one of my friends replied.” Another commented “we just went to the Fort Worth Zoo on Monday, he’ll love it.”

I’ve been to the Fort Worth Zoo and it’s really nice. But believe it or not, there’s a zoo in Dallas….and it’s great.

The best thing about the Dallas Zoo - other that it’s impressive collection of animals - is that it is accessible via DART rail. During Spring Break parking was at a premium, but we just hopped off the train and walked right in.

There was plenty to keep my son’s attention: The Children’s Zoo had petting areas as well as “The Underzone” where kids can crawl through holes to observe the mongoose. A miniature farm where children can pet animals and get up close and personal.

And Texas’ largest zoological experience is set to get even bigger in 2010. Earlier this year, the Dallas City Council approved construction of the “Giants of the Savanna” exhibit, a 10-acre, a safari-like experience that will be the new habitat for giraffes, elephants, lions, wild dogs, and many other African species. Yes, Jenny the Elephant will have a bigger and better home.

See Dallas Morning News story on the upcoming African Savanna.

This week we learned that the city of Dallas is woefully in the hole budget wise (go figure), and the Dallas Zoo faces some cuts. But zoo officials say most of the exhibit space lost will be compensated for in the new attractions.

Anyone looking for a great day with the kids that’s easily accessible and surprisingly affordable should check out the Dallas Zoo. No need for us who know about its greatness to keep it to ourselves.

Pegasus News content partner - Dallas South
Shawn Williams publishes Dallas South Blog; his e-mail address is shawn@dallassouthblog.com.

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Anonymous

"This week we learned that the city of Dallas is woefully in the hole budget wise (go figure), and the Dallas Zoo faces some cuts."

Yes, go figure. Importing animals from Africa might be one of the reasons??

Lew Patton Verified

6 months ago
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In many respects, the Fort Worth Zoo is far behind the Dallas Zoo when it comes to renovations. People complain about Jenny, but have you seen the enclosures for the mountain lions at the FT Worth Zoo? Pitifully small and inadequate for such beautiful animals.

Travis Bush Verified

6 months ago
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Maybe its time the Dallas Zoo goes into non-prof hands, as the city isnt too great when it comes to running things.

Chris Kidd Verified

6 months ago
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The Dallas Zoo dates back to the 1900's,while it was a W.P.A project in the 1930s for renovation, it is located on the old bluff and Cedar Creek site of the original Village of Oak Cliff found by Judge Hord in 1845, while an old Inn and store used to be where the present parking lot is today ..the zoo is really in a time zone of odd and yet perfect location.. for Dallas, given the placement due to the hill and trees, only problem,...traffic noise for years from the freeways have driven the animals nuts....A/T, Love lookin at you at the Dallas Zoo...