Animals

A natural history museum built right into the Adirondack forest with indoor exhibits and an outdoor Wild Walk that takes you through the treetops on elevated bridges and platforms. Kids go wild for the Wild Walk, which includes a giant spider web net you can climb on, swaying bridges between trees, and a nest you can sit in at canopy level. Inside, live animal exhibits feature river otters, fish, and turtles. The nature trails behind the museum lead to a beautiful pond. This is a must-visit for families in the Adirondacks.

A 90-acre drive-through and walk-through safari with over 350 animals from 55 species right near Hochatown. The drive-through section lets you see exotic animals from your car and the walk-around area brings you face to face with kangaroos and sloths. The Ultimate Safari Adventure package includes up-close rhino and kangaroo feeding that kids go absolutely wild for. This place consistently surprises families who do not expect a legitimate safari experience in southeastern Oklahoma.

A rescue center and petting zoo where kids can interact with goats, rabbits, ducks, donkeys, hedgehogs, and even some exotic animals like coatimundis and bearded dragons. About 95% of the animals are rescued or rehabilitated which gives the visit an extra layer of meaning for older kids who appreciate the mission. The animals are used to little hands which makes the experience comfortable even for toddlers. It only takes about an hour but for kids under 6 it is often the highlight of the whole trip.

A family ranch and Old West town where kids can pan for gold, take pony rides, and explore an authentic-looking frontier village. The ranch houses rescued exotic animals that kids can meet up close during guided tours. Special event weekends add themed activities but the regular visit is engaging enough on its own. Located in the scenic Hill Country between San Antonio and Boerne.

A 1,800-acre wildlife conservation center where families drive a 9.5-mile scenic route through open pastures with giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and over 50 other species roaming freely. Kids can hand-feed giraffes from the car window which is an absolute highlight. Behind-the-scenes tours and the Children’s Animal Center offer closer encounters. It is significantly more immersive than a traditional zoo because the animals roam across natural Hill Country terrain.