Originally a goat ranch, Austin Zoo is not your typical zoo—it’s a rescue-focused sanctuary dedicated to helping animals in need. Set in the scenic Texas Hill Country, the zoo has grown into a nonprofit rescue facility, now home to over 300 animals from more than 100 species, many of which have been saved from neglect, retired from research, or rehomed from private owners.

As the only Zoological Association of America (ZAA) accredited zoo in Austin, it offers a family-friendly, educational experience where visitors can get up-close encounters with everything from big cats and primates to reptiles and native Texas wildlife. The zoo’s interactive elements, including train rides and feeding experiences, make it a must-visit for animal lovers of all ages.

Unlike large-scale city zoos, Austin Zoo prioritizes conservation, education, and rehabilitation, offering a unique, feel-good way to connect with wildlife while supporting a great cause.