All facilities are accessible by wheelchair. You are welcome to bring your own wheelchair, stroller or wagon. Cycles of any kind are not permitted. If you need a wheelchair they are available for rent at the Congo Bazaar Gift Shop.
For your convenience, our concession stands offer a wide variety of food and beverages. The Oasis (main concession stand) and Zoofari Gift Shop (closest to the exit) close at the same time as the admission gate. Please note that the Coyote Cafe, the Asian Grille, the Lion’s Pride, Pizzooria, Dippin’ Dots, and various extra food carts are open during peak visitation times.
- Sorry, food may not be brought into the Zoo. Water is the only beverage permitted.
- For the safety of our animals and yours no pets are allowed on Zoo grounds.
Map Out Your Plan in Advance
Gladys Porter Zoo is located at 500 Ringgold St., Brownsville, Texas and is easy to access from Expressway 77/83. From 77/83 take the 6th Street exit and proceed to Ringgold St., turn right and park.
Download our online Zoo map and plan your route through the Zoo. If you are bringing young children choose a meeting place just in case someone gets separated from the group.
There’s Always Something Happening Here!
Check out our online calendar to get the scoop. See what events and programs are going on the day you’ll be visiting. If the Zoo has an event scheduled like Boo at the Zoo or Zoo Nights & Lights, you are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to avoid having to wait in long lines.
Do You Visit Often or Want to Visit More?
Take advantage of the benefits of membership like free admission every day during regular Zoo hours. Read about the great benefits that every member receives and download an application.
Prepare for the Weather
There is a lot to see at the Gladys Porter Zoo and many of our animals are in outdoor exhibits. In the Rio Grande Valley the summer months are very hot and humid. We encourage you to utilize weather appropriate dress and wear comfortable shoes made for walking. No skates or skating is allowed. If you want to take a break from the weather, visit one of our air-conditioned exhibits such as the Herpetarium or Australia Exhibit.
When You Arrive
Hopefully, you have your online Zoo map printed with your route plotted out. If you forgot your map ask for one at the ticket booth, office or at our information booth. You don’t want to get lost or miss some of your favorite animals.
At the Zoo the most frequently asked question is, “Where is the restroom?” There are four public restrooms on Zoo grounds. They are located adjacent to The Oasis, Eagle’s Nest, Asian Grill and Herpetarium.
Before You Leave
Don’t forget to visit the Zoofari Gift Shop and pick up a souvenir to remember your amazing trip to the Gladys Porter Zoo. Our gift shop features many items such as t-shirts, stuffed animals, books, jewelry, toys and much more. Due to limited space, strollers are not allowed in the Gift Shop. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please ask one of the Gift Shop employees for help securing your stroller during your visit. Plans are underway for a more spacious gift facility, and this will not be a problem in the future.