What To Expect

A new attraction has arrived! Check out Congo Falls! Congo Falls is San Antonio Zoo's most ambitious and immersive habitat to date, marking the return of gorillas to the zoo after more than 30 years. This two-acre, state-of-the-art habitat is designed to replicate the lush, multi-level terrain of the African jungle, providing an enriching environment for the gorillas and an engaging experience for guests. At the heart of Congo Falls is the Mays Family Silverback Peak, a revolutionary 70-foot-tall gorilla tower—the first of its kind globally. This structure allows gorillas to climb from their open-air habitat to an observation area atop the cliff wall, offering them panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline and the zoo's event center, The Ralston.

The habitat features expansive roaming areas, interactive browsing gardens, and naturalistic elements such as waterfalls and climbing structures, all designed to stimulate the gorillas' natural behaviors and provide guests with multiple vantage points to observe these magnificent animals. During the construction of Congo Falls, an unexpected historical discovery was made: the excavation unearthed limestone from the very quarry that supplied stone for the construction of the Alamo over 300 years ago. This finding deepens the connection between the zoo and San Antonio's rich history. Congo Falls is more than just a habitat; it's a testament to the zoo's commitment to conservation, education, and innovation. By bringing gorillas back to San Antonio in such a groundbreaking habitat, the zoo offers an unparalleled opportunity for guests to connect with these incredible animals and learn about the efforts to protect them in the wild.

The adventure doesn't stop there! Get face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, white rhinos, sitatungas, and ostriches. Africa Live! introduces you to hippos, Nile crocodiles lurking in reeds, and vibrant colobus monkeys and dwarf mongooses thriving in lush surroundings. Meanwhile, Wild Australia immerses you in the Outback, where red kangaroos bounce across the grass!

Wander through Asian Forest Home, where giant Komodo dragons and playful gibbons roam while the Reptile House and Amphibia exhibits showcase snakes, turtles, lizards, frogs, salamanders, and caecilians from around the globe. Don't miss Pride Plaza for red-ruffed lemurs and Caribbean flamingos, or the Cat Grotto. From spectacled bears and hyenas in The Grottos to exotic birds in Hixon Bird House and freshwater wonders in Friedrich Aquarium, hundreds of species await to spark curiosity and wonder!

ZOO BOO! presented by PNC - September 19 to November 1

San Antonio Zoo's beloved fall tradition turns 40 this year, and it's not-too-spooky by design. From September 19 through November 1, the whole zoo goes full fall: free daily trick-or-treating, live entertainment, interactive animal experiences, seasonal food and the debut of Fiesta de los Muertos. ZOO BOO! is included with standard admission, so your Groupon ticket gets you in.

What's Included With Admission

• The all-new Fiesta de los Muertos celebration
• FREE daily trick-or-treating from 4 to 5 pm
• Live entertainment and interactive animal experiences
• A DJ every Saturday
• The John and Greli Less Spider Rainforest, with encounters with real spiders
• Seasonal food, drinks and sweet treats, including Deep Fried Oreos, Zombie Brains and Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Bites

New for 2026: Fiesta de los Muertos

Three themed realms bring the color and artistry of Día de los Muertos to life. Cross the Marigold Bridge into Plaza de los Recuerdos and honor a beloved animal at the Ofrenda de Animales. Walk through Calaveras Salvajes, where zoo animal sculptures are transformed with sugar-skull designs. Then wander El Jardín de los Alebrijes, a garden of fantastical Mexican folk-art creatures. Expect face painting, live entertainment, limited-time themed food and plenty of photo moments.

Special ZOO BOO! Dates

• Sunday, October 18 - ZOO BOO! Dog Day, with dog-friendly trick-or-treating and a costume contest (separate Dog Day ticket required per dog)
• Saturday, October 31 - Halloween at the zoo, with extended hours until 9 pm