by L.E. Duncan

Created on: June 20, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

The San Antonio Zoo has been one of Texas' best secrets since 1914. However, since they were recently ranked in Parent magazine's Top 10 Parent Friendly Zoo's in April of 2009 and the nomination for Nickelodeon's Parent's Picks Awards, this hidden gem's secret is out.

Originally assembled by Colonel George W. Brackenridge, the Zoo now sits in an area of town named Brackenridge Park. The San Antonio Zoo is nothing short of amazing. There are many, many programs, classes and events to participate in. A quick look at their website and you will see that there is something for everyone at this zoo. For the extra-adventurous, you can even travel off zoo property to another hidden gem of San Antonio to Government canyon for a nature hike led by a naturalist.

The newest attraction, Africa Live!, is the closest you'll get to an African safari without getting on an airplane. The exhibit's goal is to teach the patron the importance of the environmental issues surrounding water in addition to its animals, plants and people. The Hippopotamus exhibit is spectacular. Partially set up in an aquarium fashion, you can look through the windows at these amazing animals. Be sure to visit the Nanyuki Market where you can indulge in some of Africa's treasures.

Your children will love the interaction with animals all over the zoo. Some of the extraordinary things your children can do at the San Antonio Zoo include Feeding lory's nectar at Lori's Landing, walking among hundreds of butterflies at the Catapillar Flight School or crawling underground to visit earthworms and prairie dogs at the Discovery House's Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot. There is more to do at this zoo than there is daylight!

Adults will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the San Antonio Zoo. The paths do not have steep inclines like many zoos have and there is plenty of shade. The walk you experience on the zoo's 56 acre plot is serene and enjoyable. The exhibits are very well kept and the 600 different animal species are usually easily viewed. San Antonio's relatively mild climate keeps the animals active for longer periods of the day and allows the zoo to remain open 365 days a year.

The San Antonio Zoo is like no other zoo. The relationship that the zoo has with the community and surrounding nature is second to none. The zoo offers educational opportunities for teachers and their classes, summer camps for kids and business conference centers. There is definitely something for everyone at the San Antonio Zoo!

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