San Antonio Zoo has proudly secured the prestigious title of the third-best zoo in the United States, according to a recent ranking by Newsweek. This honor highlights the zoo’s ongoing commitment to excellence, conservation, and community engagement, solidifying its position as a leading institution in the world of wildlife preservation.
This recognition comes on the heels of the zoo’s recent accolades, including being named the Best Zoo in Texas for the fifth time in six years by the Texas Travel Awards and the Best Family Attraction in San Antonio for five consecutive years by the SA Current. In 2023, Zoo Lights (the zoo’s holiday lights program) was also recognized as one of the best in the nation. These awards underscore the zoo’s status as a beloved local and national treasure.
The San Antonio Zoo continues to expand and innovate, recently unveiling a state-of-the-art entrance and planning future attractions such as an expanded giraffe savanna and a highly anticipated gorilla habitat named Congo Falls, set to open in 2025. These developments are part of the zoo’s broader vision to redefine the zoo experience and set new standards for animal care and visitor engagement.
The zoo’s social media presence has also exploded, with over 5 million followers across various platforms and a milestone of 1 million Instagram followers, thanks in part to viral campaigns like “Cry Me a Cockroach” and “Timothy for President.” These campaigns have brought the zoo into the global spotlight, showcasing its unique blend of humor, creativity, and dedication to wildlife conservation.
Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo, expressed his gratitude for the zoo’s dedicated staff and the community’s unwavering support. “I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering dedication of our Zoo Crew, whose exceptional care for animals and our community embodies the heart and soul of San Antonio Zoo,” Morrow said. “Together, we are shaping a future where wildlife thrives through the conservation and education we pass to our children.”
The zoo’s mission to secure a sustainable future for wildlife is at the core of its operations, with a focus on conservation, education, and community involvement. As the San Antonio Zoo continues to push boundaries and innovate, it remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.