The Dallas Zoo has launched a new initiative designed to make memberships more accessible to families across North Texas.
As part of the institution’s Zoo For All program, families who participate in Texas’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Women, Infants and Children program can now purchase a one-year family membership for $50 — more than $100 off the standard price.
Dylan Gutierrez (left), 4, and Melanie Gutierrez, 10, greet hippo Boipelo and her baby hippo, Adanna, at the Dallas Zoo on July 18, 2019.
Lynda M. González / Staff Photographer
According to Devan George, a zoo spokeswoman, the program serves to further the zoo’s commitment to accessibility, ensuring everyone “has the opportunity to explore one of Dallas’s most beloved education and conservation-focused destinations.”
Breaking News
“Zoo For All is a crucial step toward removing barriers and making sure every family can connect with animals, nature, and conservation in meaningful ways,” Lisa New, CEO of the Dallas Zoo, wrote in a statement. “That core belief is central to everything we do here at the zoo, and we’re so proud to roll out this new program to help us extend our reach to even more families.”
Related
According to George, Zoo For All participants will have access to the same benefits as any family-level member for one year, including:
- Free daily admission for up to four people per day (with named adult cardholder present)
- Free parking for one car per day
- Exclusive discounts on gift shop purchases, dining, additional guest tickets, rides (carousel, mini-train, VR experience), animal feedings and premium exhibits like Destination: Dinosaurs and Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant
- Invitations to special member events, like Member Happy Hours and monthly Member Mornings
- Priority access to and discounts on zoo education programs, camps and classes
- Reciprocal membership to more than 150 zoos and aquariums nationwide
- Subscription to Wild Edition, the zoo’s digital member newsletter
Families who qualify can purchase their membership in person at the zoo’s membership booth by presenting a valid EBT card along with a matching state-issued photo ID.
Four-month-old Makutu tries to reach back up after he was brought down to the ground by Sara Bjerklie, assistant zoological manager of mammals, on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Dallas Zoo. Makutu is being hand-raised by zoologists after he was rejected by his mother, JB.
Shafkat Anowar / Staff Photographer
Those who don’t qualify will still have opportunities throughout the year to visit the zoo at discounted rates.
On average, George said, the Dallas Zoo welcomes nearly 60% of its visitors for $10 or less, with another 13% attending for free.
During the sweltering summer months of July and August, tickets drop to $15 for all guests. It’s the same time of year the zoo typically hosts other community programs such as Dollar Days, providing admission for, yes, just $1 per person.
“With Zoo For All, Dallas Zoo is extending these efforts to provide lasting impact – an entire year of access, exploration, and discovery – for even more families,” George said.