From Balch Springs, the Fort Worth Zoo makes a day trip centered on animal habitats, optional rides and activities in Fort Worth, Texas. Check the Zoo’s hours calendar before setting out, then plan the drive and your time on site around its operating hours.
- Location: 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, Texas 76110.
- Opening pattern: Open 365 days a year; typical daily hours are 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., with some days closing at 5 p.m. Check the hours calendar for your visit date.
- Admission: $22 for adults, $18 for children ages 3–12 and seniors age 65 and older, and free for children age 2 and younger.
- Parking: $5 per vehicle, separate from admission.
Why the Fort Worth Zoo works as a day trip
The Fort Worth Zoo offers enough animal exhibits and optional activities to give a day trip a clear focus. It cares for nearly 7,000 animals, and its Predators of Asia & Africa area features African lions, Sumatran tigers, clouded leopards and other carnivores.
Build the day around the animal habitats first, then decide whether to add a ride or activity. Giraffe feeding takes place in the African Savanna during normal operating hours. Zoo-approved food is required; lettuce costs $6, or $5 for members.
For a break between areas, the Yellow Rose Express runs between Safari Depot and Texas Wild! A one-way ticket costs $5, or $4 for members. The Country Carousel is in Texas Wild!, with tickets at the same prices. A separate Fort Worth-area outing could include the Shock Wave ride at Six Flags Over Texas.
How do you get from Balch Springs to the Fort Worth Zoo?
From Scottish Inns & Suites, the Fort Worth Zoo is about 43.6 miles away. Follow the Zoo’s directions from Interstate 30: take University Drive south, exit at University Drive, continue approximately one mile to Colonial Parkway, turn left, then follow the Zoo signs. The Zoo advises checking the North Texas Tollway Authority for updated traffic information.
Allow time for the drive and parking before choosing your first activity. You can make the Zoo the focus of the day, then visit the surrounding cultural district if time allows. For local transport context at the Balch Springs end of the trip, Balch Springs driving and transit options can help you plan how to get around town.
Check zoo hours, admission and entry rules
Hours and admission costs affect how to plan your day, so check the official site before you go. The Zoo is open 365 days a year. Typical daily hours are 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., though some days close at 5 p.m.; use the hours calendar for your visit date.
General admission costs $22 for adults age 13 and older, $18 for children ages 3–12, free for toddlers age 2 and younger, and $18 for seniors age 65 and older. Half-price admission is offered every Wednesday. Parking costs $5 per vehicle and is separate from admission; major credit cards are accepted at the parking booths.
Tickets are valid for one visit within 30 days of purchase. At the gate, you can self-scan your ticket; print it or take a screenshot of its mobile barcode. Outside food and beverages are permitted, and small coolers are allowed. Glass containers, alcohol, single-use straws and single-use lids are not permitted.
For mobility needs, double-stroller rentals cost $15 plus tax per day and motorized scooters cost $40 for an all-day rental. A limited number of wheelchairs are complimentary.
Rentals are limited and cannot be reserved; bring valid ID, and note that credit cards are accepted. Sensory bags are available at no rental fee from Guest Relations, first-come, first-served, and cannot be reserved.
Allow time for the zoo and nearby cultural district
Keep the Zoo as the main stop, then use any remaining time for the surrounding cultural district. The Zoo’s attractions can add time to the visit: the Yellow Rose Express connects two Zoo locations, while giraffe feeding takes place during normal operating hours. Check current attraction details when planning your schedule.
Summer heat can affect animal viewing, as some animals may retreat to their barns when temperatures rise. The Zoo is smoke-free, including its parking lots and surrounding sidewalks, and weapons are prohibited on Zoo grounds and in its buildings.
Service animals are permitted, with exceptions in Toyota Children’s Ranch and Petting Corral, Hudson Foundation Kiddie Corral, Brush Country Aviary, and the Flamingos of the Americas and Flamingos of Africa areas; check in at Guest Relations upon arrival.
For lodging in Balch Springs, see Scottish Inns & Suites.
FAQs
How much is parking at the Fort Worth Zoo?
Parking costs $5 per vehicle and is separate from admission. Major credit cards are accepted at the parking booths.
Can you bring food into the Fort Worth Zoo?
Yes. Outside food and beverages and small coolers are permitted, but glass containers, alcohol, single-use straws and single-use lids are not.
Are service animals allowed at the Fort Worth Zoo?
Service animals are permitted with exceptions in several areas, including the aviary and flamingo areas. Check in at Guest Relations when you arrive.