The Austin Zoo, located at 10808 Rawhide Trail in Austin, Texas, is a non-profit rescue zoo that is dedicated to providing homes and rehabilitation for animals that have been rescued from abusive situations or abandoned in the wild.
The zoo was founded in 1990 by a group of volunteers who were committed to helping animals in need, and it has since grown to become a beloved attraction for locals and visitors alike.
History
The Austin Zoo was established in 1990 as a small animal rescue facility by a group of animal lovers and volunteers who were passionate about providing a safe and loving home for animals in need. At the time, the zoo was called the Good Day Ranch, and it was located in southwest Austin.
The founders of the zoo began rescuing animals that had been abandoned or abused and soon found themselves caring for a variety of different species, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and other mammals. Recommended you read
As the zoo grew, the founders realized that they needed a larger and more permanent facility to house the animals and provide the necessary care and attention.
In 1994, the zoo moved to its current location on Rawhide Trail in Austin. The new facility provided more space and resources for the animals, as well as better opportunities for visitors to learn about conservation and animal welfare.
Over the years, the Austin Zoo has continued to grow and expand, adding new exhibits and programs to better serve its mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation. Today, the zoo is home to more than 300 animals from over 100 different species, and it is a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors to Austin. Despite its growth and success, the Austin Zoo remains committed to its founding principles of compassion, dedication, and love for all animals.
A Home to Over 300 Animals from More Than 100 Different Species
One of the unique features of the Austin Zoo is that it is home to over 300 animals from more than 100 different species. These animals include big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and other mammals. Site
Many of the animals at the zoo have been rescued from neglectful or abusive situations, and the zoo provides them with a safe and loving home where they can live out their lives in peace.
Visitors to the Austin Zoo can take part in a variety of activities, including feeding the animals, taking a guided tour, attending a special event or party, or just strolling through the zoo and enjoying the exhibits.
The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for both children and adults, which focus on topics such as animal care, conservation, and wildlife protection.
In addition to its mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation, the Austin Zoo is also committed to promoting conservation and environmental awareness. The zoo works closely with other organizations to protect endangered species, preserve natural habitats, and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife preservation.
You see, the Austin Zoo is a unique and special place that provides a safe and loving home for animals in need while also offering visitors the opportunity to learn more about conservation and wildlife protection. If you are in the Austin area, a visit to the Austin Zoo is definitely worth considering!
How to Get There?
There are several ways to get to the Austin Zoo, depending on your starting location and preferred mode of transportation. Here are a few options:
- Driving
The Austin Zoo is located at 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736. If you are driving from downtown Austin, take the MoPac Expressway (Loop 1) south to Highway 290 west.
Continue on Highway 290 for about 7 miles, then turn right onto Rawhide Trail. Follow Rawhide Trail for about 1 mile, and you will see the entrance to the Austin Zoo on your left.
- Public Transportation
While there is no direct public transportation to the Austin Zoo, you can take a combination of bus and taxi/ride-share services to get there.
Capital Metro offers bus service to the intersection of Highway 290 and Old Bee Caves Road, which is about 2.5 miles from the Austin Zoo. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-share service to the zoo.
- Bike
The Austin Zoo is accessible by bike, but be aware that the route includes some hilly terrain and busy roads. You can take Southwest Parkway to Circle Drive, then turn onto Old Bee Caves Road and follow it to the zoo.
- Walking
While it is not recommended to walk to the Austin Zoo due to the distance and lack of sidewalks, it is possible to hike the nearby trails and reach the zoo as part of a longer hike or backpacking trip.
Regardless of how you choose to get to the Austin Zoo, be sure to check the zoo’s hours of operation and admission fees before you go, as they can vary depending on the season and day of the week.
Important Information You Should Know
- Address: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736, United States
- Website: http://www.austinzoo.org/
- Phone: +15122881490
- Business Hours: Open daily (9:30 am-4 pm)