Kid-Friendly Wildlife Adventures Around Austin

Austin is full of amazing spots where families can enjoy wildlife and connect with the great outdoors. Whether your little ones love spotting birds, watching turtles, or just exploring the wonders of nature, there’s something for everyone.

Zoo, Farm and Ranch

Austin Zoo

10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736

Get up close with animals like never before! There's so much to see from the playful monkeys swinging in their enclosures to the mighty lions lounging in the shade. Kids will love feeding the goats and sheep in the petting zoo, where they can interact with friendly farm animals. Also meet colorful parrots, curious reptiles, and even exotic creatures like tigers and lemurs. Every animal here has a rescue story, making your visit not just fun, but also meaningful. It’s a one-of-a-kind chance to connect with wildlife while learning about their care and conservation!

Exotic Resort Zoo

235 Zoo Trail - Johnson City, Texas 78636

With over 700 animals from 45+ species, every visit at the Exotic Resort Zoo feels like a new adventure. Open year-round from 9 AM to 5 PM (except for some holidays), you can hop on a guided safari tour and get up close with zebras, camels, antelope, and more. The last tour leaves at 4:30 PM, so don’t miss your chance to feed these incredible animals while learning about the zoo’s important conservation efforts.

One thing to remember: the Exotic Resort Zoo doesn’t allow dogs, including service animals, for the safety of their residents. Since dogs are seen as natural predators, their presence could upset the animals.

Discover a curious llama nibbling from your hand or a bison strolling by, for an unforgettable experience, that creates lasting memories.

Tiny Tails To You

Get ready for an adorable animal experience with Tiny Tails To You! This unique traveling petting zoo brings the joy of animals to your doorstep or event. Whether it’s cuddling with a fluffy bunny, feeding a curious guinea pig, or holding a gentle hedgehog, you’ll be amazed by how friendly and fun these tiny creatures are. The staff is super knowledgeable and makes sure you feel comfortable with the animals, sharing cool facts about each one. It’s a hands-on experience that’s perfect for kids and adults alike!

Tiny Tails To You specializes in creating memorable moments for birthday parties, school events, and even community festivals. Their animal encounters are not only heartwarming but also educational, teaching everyone about the care and behavior of their furry and scaly friends. From lovable chinchillas to quirky tortoises, every encounter feels like a small adventure. Whether you’re holding a baby chicken or laughing at the antics of a playful guinea pig, Tiny Tails To You makes connecting with animals easy and unforgettable!

Animal World & Snake Farm

5640 S Interstate 35 New Braunfels, TX 78132

Experience a fun animal encounter at Animal World & Snake Farm. These hands-on sessions allow you to meet some incredible animal ambassadors while learning about conservation and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. Imagine feeding baby capybaras their favorite treats, cuddling a fennec fox, or holding a giant Burmese python! Each encounter is guided by a friendly zookeeper who shares fascinating facts and stories about these amazing creatures, making it a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll cherish forever.

The animal encounters here are packed with excitement and heartwarming moments. Tilly the brown lemur might hold your hand while making adorable oinking sounds, or Cinnamon and Nutmeg, the red ruffed lemurs, could leap onto your lap! Meeting Hercules the giant python or Ali the American alligator is a jaw-dropping highlight. And let’s not forget the quirky pancake tortoises or the sweet corn snake, Ruby, who’s perfect for younger animal lovers. Whether you’re snapping selfies with a furry friend or marveling at a scaly giant, these up-close experiences are guaranteed to leave you smiling and inspired.

Sweet Eats Fruit Farm

14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626

Sweet Eats Adventure Farm in Georgetown is a delightful escape where the charm of a traditional farm meets the thrill of adventure! This place has something for everyone, including a massive 2-acre petting zoo filled with friendly goats, sheep, pigs, and even ponies. You can feed the animals, pet them, and even enjoy unlimited pony rides!

Watch the exciting pig races, race your friends in the apple cannon, or take a ride on a tractor-pulled wagon through the beautiful countryside. Try out the massive jump pads, zipline swing, duck races, and two bounce pillows. You could easily spend the whole day here, and the kids will never get bored!

Blue Hills Ranch

2032 Blue Cut Rd N McGregor, TX 76657

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Blue Hills Ranch! The Grand Safari tour takes you through 150 acres of scenic ranchland, where you’ll ride in a ranger vehicle and meet incredible animals like giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos. Explore the property, take in the views, and enjoy up-close encounters with these amazing creatures in their natural habitats.

After the tour, head to the ranch’s backyard for even more hands-on fun. Feed a giraffe, pet a friendly cow, or watch playful otters in action. This interactive experience is perfect for anyone who loves animals and wants to create lasting memories. Don’t miss your chance to connect with nature like never before!

Crowes Nest Farm

10300 Taylor Lane, Manor, TX 78653

At Crowe's Nest Farm in Manor, experience amazing animal encounters! One of the coolest things you can do is watch a cow being milked, a fun and hands-on way to learn about where our milk comes from. The farm also has a reptile and snake room where you can safely observe these fascinating creatures up close. If you're looking for more adventure, hop on a hayride that takes you around the farm to visit incredible animals like ostriches, bison, and other wildlife. It's a great way to connect with nature and see animals in a beautiful, natural setting.

But Crowe’s Nest Farm isn’t just about fun animal experiences—it’s also a place with a purpose. As a non-profit educational organization, the farm is dedicated to caring for injured, orphaned, or abused animals that can’t be released back into the wild. They work closely with local wildlife organizations and humane societies to provide sanctuary for these animals, teaching the public about the importance of wildlife conservation and stewardship. Visiting Crowe's Nest Farm is a great way to see animals, and an opportunity to support a place that truly cares for and protects Texas wildlife.

Topsey Exotic Ranch & Drive-Through Park

945 County Rd 118 Copperas Cove, TX 76522

Visit Topsey Exotic Ranch & Drive-Through Park in Copperas Cove, TX, for a one-of-a-kind wildlife adventure! Drive through 350 acres and see over 50 species, including camels, zebras, antelopes, and gazelles. You can even hand-feed the animals right from your car for an up-close and unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the excitement of curious animals approaching your vehicle for treats. From camels leaning in to zebras gently taking food, every moment is a chance to connect with nature. Remember, no pets or highly lifted vehicles (over 4 inches) are allowed for the safety of the animals.

Austin Aquarium

13530 US-183 #101, Austin, TX 78750

The Austin Aquarium is an exciting destination for families, bringing the wonders of the ocean and beyond right to the heart of Austin. With thousands of species to discover and interactive exhibits to enjoy, it’s a hands-on experience. You can hand-feed sharks and stingrays, interact with vibrant lorikeets in the aviary, and even meet playful ring-tailed lemurs up close. For those curious about land animals, the rainforest exhibit features reptiles, capybaras, and more, offering a unique blend of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife encounters.

This family-friendly spot isn’t just about fun—it’s also a place to learn and connect. The Austin Aquarium provides educational programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and unforgettable experiences like the “Sleep with the Sharks” program. Whether touching a caiman lizard, marveling at glowing jellyfish, or celebrating a birthday, every visit is a chance to explore and grow. The Aquarium’s commitment to supporting foster children and local organizations makes it even more special, creating a place where everyone feels welcome to discover the magic of wildlife.

  

Science & Nature Centers

Austin Nature & Science Center

2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746

The Austin Nature & Science Center (ANSC) is the perfect spot for a fun and hands-on way to learn about wildlife! Since 1960, ANSC has been a hub for nature exhibits, education programs, and recreation activities designed to inspire appreciation for the natural environment. Nestled on the western edge of Zilker Park, this beloved destination is dedicated to exploring and protecting the wonders of nature.

One of the highlights is the Wildlife Exhibits, where you can meet native animals like owls, hawks, snakes, and even a bobcat. These rescued animals, unable to return to the wild, have found a safe and caring home here. The center often hosts interactive sessions where you can meet reptiles, amphibians, or insects and discover their vital roles in the environment. Seeing them up close while learning about their unique adaptations and habitats is a truly fascinating experience.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is home to a variety of wildlife that thrives in its natural habitats, making it a perfect spot for animal encounters. As you stroll through the gardens, keep your eyes peeled for butterflies fluttering among the native plants or colorful birds perched nearby. The center's dedication to native plants helps create a welcoming space for animals like bees, birds, and small mammals, giving you the chance to see nature in action. You might even spot a rabbit or two hopping through the grass as you explore!

 

Pet Shops

Zookeeper Exotic Pets

9012 Research Blvd, Ste C11 Austin, TX 78758

Zookeeper Exotics in North Austin is a fun stop for anyone who loves animals, especially for a fan of unique and exotic creatures! Find all sorts of fascinating animals like snakes, frogs, lizards, turtles, and even a sloth! It's a great place for kids to get up close and personal with creatures they might not see every day. 

Zookeeper Exotics offers a fun and educational experience. It's a pet store, but a place where you can observe and learn about these creatures in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The animals are all kept in well-maintained enclosures, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to share interesting facts about each one. It's a perfect spot for a casual visit with the family, offering opportunities to discover new animals and make unforgettable memories!

Gallery of Pets

11689 Research Blvd #107, Austin, TX 78759

Gallery of Pets in Northwest Austin is a great place for animal lovers! Whether you’re interested in fish, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, reptiles, or amphibians, this store has something for everyone. The staff here has over 100 years of combined pet knowledge, so you can trust them to answer your questions and help you find the perfect pet or pet supplies. One of the coolest things about this store is its focus on fish and birds, making it a go-to spot for anyone who loves these unique pets. You’ll be amazed by the variety of colorful fish and the beautiful birds that greet you when you walk in!

Austin Aqua-Dome

1604 Fortview Road Austin, TX 78704

With Central Texas' largest selection of marine fish and corals, Austin Aqua-Dome is a dream come true for aquarists. If you're looking for stunning saltwater fish or colorful freshwater species, you'll find hundreds of fish, including koi, shrimp, crayfish, and even pond plants. It’s a great spot to explore if you’re curious about setting up your aquarium or pond, as they offer everything from fish and plants to supplies and equipment.

The Aqua-Dome has been around since 1986 and has a rich history in Austin’s aquarium scene. The knowledgeable team, including experts with over 60 years of experience, orders fish and corals from all over the world—from the Philippines and Bali to Indonesia and South America. It’s a great place to learn about exotic aquatic life and get advice on caring for your new pets. If you’re looking to create a beautiful aquarium or pond, the Aqua-Dome is the place to go for all your aquatic needs, and it’s a fun place to explore for anyone who enjoys the beauty of underwater creatures!

 

Parks and Nature Preserve

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a fantastic day trip just an hour from Austin, offering an exciting chance to see over 500 animals from 40 different species! The ranch is a safari park where you can drive through and observe animals like giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and even ostriches up close. It's a great place for families to learn about animals in a natural, spacious setting. As you drive through the park, keep your eyes peeled for these amazing creatures roaming freely, and don't forget to stop and take pictures of the giraffes, which are always a favorite!

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch has special educational areas where kids can safely interact with animals and learn more about the different species. The ranch is a fun place to visit an important wildlife refuge, helping to protect these animals while providing a unique experience for visitors. With over 450 acres to explore, there’s always something new to see and learn about, making it an unforgettable experience for animal lovers of all ages!

Franklin Drive Thru Safari

4324 West Highway 79, Franklin TX 77856

Head to Franklin Drive Thru Safari in Franklin, TX, for an exciting animal adventure! Drive through 100+ acres and get a close look at exotic animals from all over the world. You can also visit the petting zoo to interact with and feed some of the animals. For a more personal experience, book a VIP private tour to learn more about how the animals are cared for.

Admission is $20 per person, and kids under 2 get in free. The safari is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, weather permitting. 

Buena Vista Wildlife Safari & RV Park

1830 S, S Hwy 281, Evant, TX 76525

Take a trip to Buena Vista Wildlife Safari & RV Park and experience the thrill of seeing exotic animals in their natural habitat. The 350-acre wildlife park features a 3.5-mile drive-through safari where you can spot over 20 species, such as zebras, bison, llamas, and antelope. It’s a great opportunity to get up close to these incredible animals as they roam freely in the Texas Hill Country.

After your safari, make sure to visit the petting zoo for more hands-on encounters with friendly animals. The park also offers plenty of activities for everyone, including a playground, an Event Center with games, and a dog park for your pets. Whether you’re staying in one of the cozy cabins or bringing your RV, Buena Vista Wildlife Safari provides a fun, family-friendly experience that you won’t forget.

 

Tips for a Successful Wildlife Adventure

Pack the essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats to stay comfortable throughout your adventure. Having these items on hand will help everyone enjoy the outing without any distractions.

Teach respect for nature: Remind kids to observe animals quietly and avoid feeding or disturbing them. Respecting wildlife ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience for both humans and animals.

Bring a field guide: A simple guide to local wildlife can make the experience more fun and educational. It helps kids identify animals and learn about their surroundings.

Take it slow: Wildlife watching requires patience. Moving slowly gives kids the chance to spot animals up close and observe their natural behavior.

Safety first: Always stay on designated paths and keep a safe distance from wild animals. Some animals may seem friendly but can become defensive if they feel threatened.

 

Austin and its surrounding areas offer amazing wildlife experiences that kids will love! From getting up close with exotic animals on a safari to feeding playful creatures in a petting zoo, these places make learning about wildlife exciting and memorable. So, grab the kids, head out on an adventure, and enjoy a day full of fun, animals, and nature!