Plan Your Visit to San Antonio Zoo: Timings and Directions

San Antonio Zoo offers a range of visitor facilities: accessible restrooms, shaded picnic areas, stroller and wheelchair rentals near the entrance, and seating throughout the park. Families will find designated play zones and interactive exhibits, including the Critter Cruisers rideable beetle vehicles. The renovated entrance area, H-E-B Plaza, adds comfortable gathering space and wayfinding.

To keep the visit safe and enjoyable for everyone, San Antonio Zoo asks guests not to feed or touch the animals, to stay on marked paths, and to respect exhibit barriers. Pets aren't permitted inside the zoo, except for registered service animals. Smoking is restricted to designated outdoor areas, professional photography requires prior approval, and drones or other remote-controlled devices are prohibited.

San Antonio Zoo is designed to be accessible to all visitors. The entrance and pathways accommodate wheelchairs and strollers with smooth surfaces and ramps, and accessible restrooms and parking are available. Sensory-friendly bags — with noise-canceling headphones, communication cards, and fidget items — can be picked up at Guest Services, and Universal Changing Stations are located at H-E-B Plaza and Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot.

San Antonio Zoo offers several dining options across the grounds. Beastro Restaurant serves burgers, pizza, and desserts with views near the carousel and lake. Longnecks Bar and Grill is an open-air, Africa-inspired café, and Changos Cafe, Aussie Snacks, and Snack-a-Roos offer quicker bites and beverages throughout the park.

Visitors can stop by the Insectería Pop-Up Tent for insect-themed merchandise, including plush bug toys, edible insect snacks, and themed gifts tied to the Big Bugs exhibit. The main gift shop carries apparel, educational books, and memorabilia celebrating the zoo's animals and conservation work.

For visitors staying near downtown, Riverwalk-area hotels like Home2 Suites by Hilton San Antonio Downtown – Riverwalk and Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk put you within a short rideshare or bus ride of the zoo. For a more upscale stay, Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and The Westin Riverwalk San Antonio are well-located downtown options.

While visiting San Antonio Zoo, guests can also explore the San Antonio Botanical Garden, the historic River Walk with its shops and dining, the Witte Museum's history and science exhibits, and Brackenridge Park's green space for picnics and outdoor activities.