Who is ready for a road trip to see — perhaps, even feed — exotic animals? We’ve compiled the best wildlife attractions ideal for a day trip (only one to four hours) from the metroplex!
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1. Arbuckle Wilderness Park
Head north two hours to our neighboring state for this drive-thru zoo. Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Davis, Oklahoma, features giraffes, cattle, porcupines, and camels. This is a great excursion located across the street from the ever popular Turner Falls — Oklahoma’s largest waterfall.
2. Blue Hills Ranch
Blue Hills Ranch is located two hours south in McGregor, Texas. This is one unique ranch with unforgettable experiences, such as playtime with otters (ages 12 and older) and bottle feeding kangaroos (all ages). Additionally, if you book a stay in one of the farmhouse cabins, your family gets all-inclusive treatment with a behind-the-scenes tour and access to the swimming pool. But, if your schedule (and budget) only allows a day trip, I recommend splurging on the expertly guided tour.
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3. Exotic Resort Zoo
A zoo and resort in one? Yes, please! Exotic Resort Zoo in Johnson City, Texas, has more than 45 different species such as cattle, deer, sheep, goats, and zebras, and you can visit them all on the drive-thru safari. If you stay in one of the many lodging options (you may as well since it’s nearly a four-hour drive home), a guided tour is included free of charge. It also has a resort-style pool, outdoor grills, and a playground for overnight guests.
4. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
This one is a real favorite for North Texas families. Take a beautiful, hourlong drive west to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas. It’s another drive-thru zoo with many different types of deer and antelope, as well as giraffes, ostriches, and cheetahs. You can pay a little more to have a guided tour through the center, and to stay overnight in its swanky lodge. Admission includes one free cone of animal feed.
5. In Sync Exotics
In Sync Exotics in Wylie, Texas (more than an hour away), is a big cat rescue and education center that cares for tigers, lions, cougars, lynxes, and more. And the ticket price is up to you! It considers the cost of admission a donation, and spends all money donated on food and care for the rescued animals. It does not buy, sell, trade, or breed any animals. Suggested donations start at $10 for self-paced tours, and $15 for guided tours. You can also host birthday parties here, or send your kids to safari camp.
6. John Bunker Sands Wetland Center
Just one hour down the road in Combine, Texas, is John Bunker Sands Wetland Center. It’s an educational center that showcases the natural flora and fauna of the region like no other attraction on this list. There are miles of serene trails on a boardwalk where you can view bald eagles and other birds. If you look closely, you might see minks, beavers, and feral pigs. The center promotes local water and wildlife conservation. Kids ages 12 and younger are free.
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7. Sharkarosa Zoo
Sharkarosa Zoo in Pilot Point, Texas, is a self-guided zoo featuring zebras, black bears, lemurs, and sloths. It is also a large petting zoo. There are educational chats every 20 minutes. You can even opt for a close encounter with many of the animals.
8. Texas Zoofari Park
Feed llamas, giraffes, and cattle on weekend wagon rides in Kaufman, Texas, at Texas Zoofari Park. There is also a petting zoo and kangaroo viewing area. Plan for three hours round trip.
Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know!
