So You Wanna See a Hippo? How Much Will It Cost You to Get Your Houston Zoo Fix?
Let's face it, folks, the zoo is a wild place (pun intended). You've got majestic lions lounging around like they own the joint, playful monkeys swinging through the trees like they're auditioning for Cirque du Soleil, and enough reptiles to make even the bravest soul sweat a little. But before you can get up close and personal with a giraffe (or, you know, politely avert your eyes from a particularly grumpy rhinoceros), there's one burning question: how much is this animalistic adventure going to set you back?
Fear Not, Frugal Friend! Here's the Lowdown on Houston Zoo Ticket Prices:
The Straight Dope:
- Adults (12-64): $19.95 – That's the price of a fancy coffee and a bagel, but with way more entertainment value (and hopefully less chance of getting bitten by a squirrel).
- Seniors (65+): $14.95 – Respect to the elders! You get a little discount for all those years of wisdom (and maybe an extra appreciation for a leisurely stroll through the zoo).
- Kids (2-11): $15.95 – The future zoologists of America! This price will get them face-to-face with everything from a cuddly panda to a creepy crawly spider (fun fact: there are more insect species on Earth than all other animal species combined...eek!).
- Wee Ones (Under 2): Free – Because babies are basically zoo exhibits themselves, waddling around and making everyone coo. Just be sure they don't try to pet the penguins (trust me, it's frowned upon).
Hey, That's Not All!
- Free Tuesdays: That's right, FREE! Once a month, the Houston Zoo opens its doors to the public for free. Just be prepared for crowds – it's basically a zoo-palooza!
- Discounts Galore: Military members, college students, and even students from certain Houston universities can snag discounted tickets. Do your research and save some dough!
Pro Tip: Don't Be a Hippo at the Gate!
Tickets are not available for purchase at the zoo anymore. That's right, folks, it's a brave new world of online reservations. So plan ahead, grab your tickets online, and avoid the hangry zoo-goers waiting in line (because trust me, there will be hangry zoo-goers).
So there you have it! Now you're armed with the knowledge to navigate the exciting (and sometimes expensive) world of zoo tickets. Remember, a trip to the Houston Zoo is an investment in fun, memories, and maybe a newfound appreciation for your own comfy couch (after all that walking!).
