At the Houston Zoo, visitors may enjoy numerous permanent animal exhibits such as the Reptile House, the Asian Elephant Habitat, the Wortham World of Pirates, the Kipp Aquarium and the Fischer Bird Gardens. Children and adults may also enjoy petting animals at the John P. McGovern Children?s Zoo as well as learn interesting new facts about animals at the Carruth Natural Encounters Building.

At the 55-acre zoo, visitors may also enjoy a ride at the zoo?s Wildlife Carousel, which opened in May 2004. There?s also the Water Playground, where kids may enjoy some splashing fun. Both the carousel and playground are located at the Children?s Zoo area.

For those who wish to dine at the Houston Zoo, visitors may choose between the Cypress Circle Grill and the Macaw Cafe, which is best known for serving deliciously fresh salads, hot chicken tender baskets, and Starbucks coffee.