Dallas Zoo, Dallas

The Dallas Zoo, officially known as the Dallas Zoological Park, stands as a 106-acre (43 hectares) sanctuary for wildlife, situated just 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of downtown Dallas, within the scenic confines of Marsalis Park. This institution, established in 1888, holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas. It operates under the stewardship of the non-profit Dallas Zoological Society and boasts a diverse collection of over 2,000 animals representing 406 species, underscoring its significant role in conservation and education efforts.

A pivotal moment in the zoo's history occurred in 2009 when the Dallas City Council unanimously endorsed the construction of the 11-acre (4.5 hectares) Giants of the Savanna Exhibit, a decision that coincided with the move to privatize the zoo. This strategic shift has catalyzed a remarkable increase in visitor engagement, with the zoo crossing the milestone of one million annual visitors for the first time in 2015.

The zoo's layout is bifurcated into two primary sections: ZooNorth and Wilds of Africa. ZooNorth, the original and historic heart of the zoo, serves as a testament to the zoo's longstanding heritage. Conversely, the Wilds of Africa, developed seventy-eight years after ZooNorth, offers an immersive experience of African ecosystems and is accessible via a tunnel beneath Clarendon Drive. Notably, the Wilds of Africa is home to the Giants of the Savanna exhibit, further enhancing the zoo's commitment to providing enriching, educational, and conservation-centric experiences to its visitors.