Gladys Porter Zoo

Bunny Corral & Easter Animal Playday
2026-04-04 10:00 - 2026-04-05 15:00 (America/Chicago)
Easter Fun at the Gladys Porter Zoo
During Easter weekend, hop on over to the Gladys Porter Zoo! From April 4th & 5th, visitors can enjoy the annual Bunny Corral and Animal Play Day.
Guests can visit the Bunny Corral, which will be across from Small World! Zoo staff will set up a cozy corral These adorable bunnies will be available to pet on April 4th & 5th from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Docents and Zoo staff will be at hand to answer any questions about these furry creatures.
Zookeepers will be conducting an Animal Play Day on April 5th. Please join the Zoo as we celebrate Easter with treats and gifts for our animals. During the day, keepers will be distributing Easter-themed enrichment items to animals, large and small, throughout the Zoo.
Animal Play Days are scheduled events where Zoo animals are given an enrichment item that has a specific theme. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain Zoo inhabitants. It is performed daily at the Zoo and is a vital component essential to the health and well-being of the animals.
Thank you to the run sponsors City of Brownsville, and Visit Brownsville. Hope to see you there in your best bunny attire!
Stay in Brownsville
Brownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo. Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.
All activities are free to visitors with paid regular admission or Zoo membership. For more information, call the Gladys Porter Zoo at (956) 546-7187.

Party For the Planet
2026-04-18 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 E Ringgold St,, BROWNSVILLE, TX, 78520, United States
Party for the Planet: Zoo Celebrates Earth Day!
The Gladys Porter Zoo will be celebrating Earth Day with their annual event, Party for the Planet, presented by Chick-Fil-A on Saturday, April 18th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be various games and activities throughout the Zoo grounds for guests to enjoy and learn about the many ways they can help preserve the planet.
Kids can make their seed bombs to toss in their backyard or play a recycling relay race, to name a few activities. Local beekeepers, gardeners, and other eco-exhibitors will also be on-site to educate the public about various ways to help native wildlife, especially pollinators.
“The Gladys Porter Zoo is excited to celebrate Earth Day by hosting Party for the Planet. At this event, our goal is to teach the public about the importance of conserving the Earth and the many ways they can do it while having fun with the entire family,” said Cynthia Garza-Galvan, Marketing Director.
Another great component of this event is that Girl Scouts will be able to accomplish 90 to 100 percent of the requirements to earn a badge.

It will be a fun and exciting experience for the whole family to enjoy!
Thank you to our sponsors Chick-Fil-A, Brownsville Public Utilities Board, City of Brownsville, and Visit Brownsville.
Stay in Brownsville
Brownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo. Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.

Brownsville Appreciation Weekend
2026-05-08 - 2026-05-10
Gladys Porter Zoo Celebrates “Brownsville Appreciation Weekend” to Honor Vital City Partnership
From the modernization of essential water and wastewater infrastructure to the visionary investment in the Zoo’s Master Plan, the City of Brownsville has been an indispensable partner in the Gladys Porter Zoo’s forward momentum. As a heartfelt thank you for this steadfast support and the City’s commitment to the Zoo’s comprehensive redevelopment, the Zoo is proud to host Brownsville Appreciation Weekend on May 8th, 9th, and 10th.
“The progress we are seeing today, including the revitalization of our existing habitats and the critical infrastructure grants that keep our gates open, is a direct result of our partnership with the City of Brownsville,” says Zoo Director Dr. Patrick M. Burchfield. “This weekend, we invite the community to see how their support is improving the Gladys Porter Zoo.”
During this exclusive three-day event, Brownsville residents are invited to explore the Zoo for a special discounted rate:

Admission Price: $4.00 per person for both adults and children.
Eligibility: Exclusive to residents of Brownsville.
Requirements: Guests must present proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, at the gate; only one person per group is required to show proof.

Residents can experience the thrill of the Soaring Eagle Zipline, which served as the pivotal first step in the Zoo’s master plan and takes guests 120 feet into the air for a bird’s-eye view of the park. Visitors can also look forward to the upcoming grand opening of El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco Phase II in August 2026. In the meantime, guests can discover new additions like the guira cuckoo in the Tropical American aviary and a new reticulated python in the herpetarium. A number of newborn babies are currently on display for visitors to observe, such as black and white ruffed lemurs that are so adorable.
As an added celebration, the Zoo will host a Mother’s Day themed Animal Play Day on Sunday, May 10th.
For those who cannot make it this weekend, another opportunity for regional discounts will be available later this fall. For more information, please contact the Marketing Department at (956) 546-7187

Animal Play Day “Mother’s Day… M.O.M.”
2026-05-10 08:00 - 17:00 UTC
Join us for a Mother’s Day themed Animal Play Day at the Orangutan Palapa. Participate in fun educational activities and coloring from 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Orangutan Palapa. Our mother and daughter orangutan pair will be also receiving enrichment from their keepers at the following times:
11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Orangutans are facing a crisis in the wild due to the loss of their rain forest home to make space for palm oil plantations. The cutting down and burning of the rain forest for these plantations leaves many orangutans homeless and/or orphaned. This event is free with the purchase of general admission or Zoo membership. We will be accepting donations for the Missing Orangutan Mothers campaign.

Brew at the Zoo
2026-05-16 19:00 - 22:00 (America/Chicago)
Brew at the Zoo 2026
The Ultimate Wildlife Conservation Fundraiser
Presented by Whataburger
Join Gladys Porter Zoo and presenting sponsor Whataburger for the 12th Annual Brew at the Zoo in Brownsville, Texas! This 21+ event combines craft beer, local flavors, and high-energy entertainment to support vital wildlife conservation efforts.

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Live music continues until 11:00 p.m.)
Location: Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville, Texas

Experience the Feast with the Beasts
Sample a curated selection of 24 premium and craft beers from L&F Distributors while 24 of the Rio Grande Valley’s best restaurants compete for the People’s Choice Award. We are incredibly grateful to these partners for donating their time and delicious food to support wildlife conservation:

BBQ & Comfort Favorites: Texas Roadhouse, Reyna’s BBQ & Cocina, Barnyard Burgers, and Black Bear Diner.
International Flavors: Mod Dang Thai, Teriyaki Madness, Jolie Petite, and Ramses Tacos & Tequila.
Pub Grub & Wings: Brewskies Pub & Eatery, Hooters, Buffalo Wild Wings to Go, Wing Barn, and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.
Tacos & Coastal Eats: Taqueria la Bravo, Chef Ricardo’s Tacos and Beer, and El Amigo Seafood.
Quick Bites & Fast Casual: Dave’s Hot Chicken, Wienerschnitzel, Applebee’s, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, H-E-B Flaming Bird, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.
Special Guest: 2025 People’s Choice Award Winner: Yo Momma’s Cookin’!

Refreshment Station
In addition to our curated craft beer selection, upgrade your aesthetic with these must try specialties:

Whataburger “Whatafreshers”: Try the Southwest-inspired Prickly Pear Raspberry or the Strawberry Hibiscus with real fruit inclusions.
Los Trevi Drive-Thru: Authentic Estrella Jalisco micheladas from the iconic Michelada Combi.

High-Energy Entertainment Zones

Sound & Stages: Live sets from Back to Riverdale, The Reynalds, and Reserve, plus an EDM dance party with DJ Akasha.
The Spectacle: Catch the Reinas de Saba fire dancing sets in the Amphitheater.
The Social Yard: Friendly competition featuring an H-E-B Beer Pong Tournament, karaoke, and viral tabletop games like What Do You Meme.
The Thrill Zone: Axe throwing, a mechanical bull, and the Soaring Eagle Zipline ($15.00 fee for General Admission).
Digital Memories Zone: Capture the night at five curated selfie stations or our 360-degree photo booth.

Ticket Information
Brew at the Zoo is a 21+ event. Tickets sell out quickly—secure yours early!

Pre-sale Tickets: $40.00
At the Gate: $60.00 (if available)
VIP Experience ($100.00): Limited to 100 guests. Includes fast-pass access to all lines, private stage-side seating, an animal feeding session, and a complimentary zipline ride.

PRESALE TICKETS
VIP TICKETS
Our Sponsors
This event is made possible by Whataburger, the City of Brownsville, Visit Brownsville, L&F Distributors, H-E-B, SpaceX, and the Brownsville Public Utilities Board.
Stay in Brownsville
Brownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo. Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.

Ridley Rush
2026-06-06 07:00 - 12:00 UTC
You are invited to join us for our 10th Annual Ridley Rush 5K/1-Mile Walk/Run presented by Chick-Fil-A. This family fun run aims to raise awareness for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle. The Ridley Rush route will take you through the beautiful and scenic Mitte Cultural District and Gladys Porter Zoo as you experience what a baby sea turtle must endure in its rush to the ocean.
As federal and state funds have dwindled over the years, this direct funding has become mission-critical to sustain Kemp’s Ridley Project and provide support to other sea turtle projects. The Kemp’s Ridley Project has both a successful track record and the real possibility of down-listing this most iconic of marine animals. Other proven sea turtle projects may receive funding to promote conservation efforts.
The cost to participate in the 5K run is only $35.00 and $30.00 for the 1-mile run per runner. This cost covers a limited edition dri-fit Ridley Rush shirt, a race bib, a race medal, and the entrance to the Zoo for the post-race festival celebrating World Oceans Day!
REGISTRATION
A special thanks go out to this year’s Ridley Rush sponsors, Chick-Fil-A, H-E-B Helping Here, Brownsville Public Utilities Board, CBS 4, NBC 23, Visit Brownsville, and City of Brownsville.

Animal Play Day “World Giraffe Day”
2026-06-21 08:00 - 17:00 UTC
What is World Giraffe Day? It is a world-wide day of recognition for the longest necked animal on the planet. Take part in World Giraffe Day, established by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. During World Giraffe Day, the Zoo will have our Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 100% of the proceeds will go directly towards saving giraffes in Africa. Kids can participate in activities like giraffe mask making, while learning about giraffe conservation.
Giraffe are becoming one of the forgotten large mammals of the world. While everyone knows about the terrible waves of elephant poaching that continue to plague the African savannahs, the degree of giraffe destruction is even worse. There are estimated to be 500,000 elephants remaining, while only 100,000 giraffe are left. For more information about World Giraffe Day, visit www.worldgiraffeday.org.

Kids Appreciation Day
2026-07-25 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago)
22nd Annual Kids Appreciation Day Presented by H-E-B
Join us at the Gladys Porter Zoo for our 22nd Annual Kids Appreciation Day! Designed to give Rio Grande Valley families a fun, educational day together while preparing for the upcoming school year, this event features free backpack giveaways, interactive learning stations, raffles, and new zoo attractions.
Event Overview & Admission Details

Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Gladys Porter Zoo | Brownsville, Texas

Admission Discounts & Special Passes

H-E-B Coupon: Pick up a “Child Free with Paid Adult” admission coupon (for ages 2–13) at any H-E-B location in Brownsville. Valid only on Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Region One Summer Passes: Have an unused Region One school district Summer Pass? Kids Appreciation Day is the perfect time to redeem it!

Backpack Giveaways & Passport Activity
Upon entering the Zoo, children will receive an event passport that guides them on an interactive trail across the grounds.

Free Backpack Giveaway: The first 1,500 children to pick up their event passport receive a free backpack filled with essential school supplies.
Passport Activity: Complete all passport stops—focusing on health, child safety, conservation, and community resources—to enter the door prize raffle!

Door Prize Raffle
Complete your event passport for a chance to win one of our fantastic door prizes:
Ultimate Back-to-School Bundles

Fully Loaded “Gear Tech” Clear Backpack (6 to be raffled)

Tech & Gear: HDX Ultra 3.5mm Earbuds, XL Reusable Shopping Bag, HEB Black Pencil Pouch
Paper & Organization: HEB Eco View 1-Inch 3-Ring Binder, HEB Filler Paper (300 Sheets), HEB 5-Tab Paper Dividers, HEB Poly Folder with Prongs, HEB Laminated Folder (No Prongs), HEB Wide-Ruled Composition Notebooks (6 ct.).
Coloring & Art Supplies: Crayola Crayons (64 ct.), Crayola Colored Pencils (24 ct.), Crayola Washable Classic Markers (10 ct.)
Writing & Office Tools: Ticonderoga #2 Pencils (2 Boxes / 24 ct. Total), HEB Blue Ballpoint Pens (10 ct.), Pentel Hi-Polymer Erasers (2 ct.), Eraser Caps, HEB Wooden Ruler, Bostitch Twist Sharpener, HEB Yellow Highlighters (4 ct.), HEB Fine Dry-Erase Markers (4 ct.)
Adhesives & Cutting: Elmer’s Washable Purple Glue Sticks (6 Pack), Elmer’s Liquid School Glue, HEB Point-Tip Kids Scissors
Health, Hygiene & Cleaning: HEB Original Hand Sanitizer, HEB Tru-Grit Disinfectant Wipes (2 Pack), Kleenex Ultra Tissue (2 Boxes), HEB Texas Tough Quart Storage Bags, HEB Texas Tough Gallon Storage Bags

Bicycles & Helmets

16” Dynacraft Sweetheart Bicycle (Includes coordinating helmet)
16” Ozone 500 Kick It 1600 Bicycle (Includes coordinating helmet)
20” Ozone 500 Island Girl Cruzer Bicycle (Includes coordinating helmet)
20” Ozone 500 Blaze Bicycle (Includes coordinating helmet)

Sports & Active Outdoor Play

Jupiter Light-Up Folding Kick Scooter (2 to be raffled)
Baden Basketball Set Includes Spalding “Back-At-Cha” Basketball Return (2 to be raffled)
FIFA-Branded Soccer Ball Set Includes Brava Junior Soccer Goal (2 to be raffled)
Baden Volleyball Set Includes Mizuno Youth Kneepads (2 to be raffled)
Ride-On Pink Flamingo Includes Dual Bubble Blaster
Let’s Go Bowling Glow Bowling Set (4 to be raffled)

STEM, Crafts & Creative Kits

LEGO Creator 3-in-1 Wild Safari Animals
National Geographic Motorized Shark Model
National Geographic Shark Dig Kit
Think Box Inventor’s Box
Mondo Llama Jungle Bucket of Crafts
Mondo Llama Create-Your-Own Clay Characters Kit
Mondo Llama Create-Your-Own Punch Needle Stuffed Animal Kit
Mondo Llama Create-Your-Own Superhero Comic Book Kit

Tech, Electronics & Goodie Bags

Helix Wireless Earbuds for Kids (Ages 7+) (2 to be raffled)
Discover Brownsville Historic Places Goodie Bag

Themed Lunchboxes + $25 H-E-B Gift Card
(Each lunchbox bundle includes a $25.00 H-E-B Gift Card)

Minecraft Lunchbox Bundle
Hello Kitty Lunchbox Bundle
Spider-Man Lunchbox Bundle
Thermos Unicat Lunchbox Bundle

Interactive Event Activities & Stations
Explore hands-on crafts, interactive games, and environmental learning stops along the passport route:

Arts, Crafts & Fun: Face Painting, Cassowary Mask Making, Colors of the Rainforest Monster Mural, and Rainforest Delight.
Interactive Games: Jungle Jenga: The Great Deforestation Collapse, Barrel of Monkeys, Termite Fishing, and Money Manor.
Eco-Education & Science: Photosynthesis: Let’s Make Some Oxygen!, Roselle Hibiscus: Plant of Many Wonders, Layers of the Rainforest, Hop into the Ecosystem!, Rainforests of the World, and Pledge to the Rainforest.

Special Attractions & New Exhibits
Make the most of your visit by checking out the Zoo’s newest additions:

Wild Explorer VR Experience: Step into a state-of-the-art virtual reality pod for an immersive journey inside wild animal habitats. (Fee: $7.00 per rider)
Return of the Keel-Billed Toucan: Visit the Tropical America aviary to see the vibrant Keel-Billed Toucan, returning to the collection after a 20-year absence!

Community Sponsors
This event is brought to you through the generous support of our partners:
H-E-B Helping Here | Chick-fil-A | Brownsville Public Utilities Board | Raising Cane’s | Whataburger | City of Brownsville | Visit Brownsville | Digital 101.5 | NBC 23 | CBS 4

Brownsville Appreciation Days
2026-09-11 08:00 - 2026-09-13 17:00 UTC
Its Brownsville Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo, this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—September 11th, 12th, and 13th!
Brownsville residents can enjoy the Zoo for just two dollars per person. That’s right—get up close with our new emus, see the gorillas, and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline. Just show proof of residency at the gate!

Lower Valley Appreciation Days
2026-09-18 08:00 - 2026-09-20 17:00 UTC
It’s Lower Valley Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 18th, 19th, and 20th!
Residents from Cameron and Willacy County can enjoy the Zoo for just six dollars per adult and four dollars per child! That’s right—get up close with our new emus, see the gorillas, and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline. Just show proof of residency at the gate!
All residents living in the Lower Valley will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Lower Valley includes: Arroyo City, Bayview, Bluetown, Brownsville, Calaboz, Carricitos, Combes, El Ranchito, Harlingen, La Feria, La Leona, La Paloma, La Tina, Laguna Heights, Laguna Vista, Lantana, Las Rusias, Las Yescas, Laureles, Los Coyotes, Los Fresnos, Los Indios, Lozano, Lyford, Matamoros, Mexico, Monte Grande, Olmito, Porfirio, Port Isabel, Port Mansfield, Primera, Rancho Viejo, Rangerville, Raymondville, Rio Hondo, Russelltown, San Benito, San Pedro, San Perlita, Santa Monica, Sebastian, South Padre Island and Willamar. Residents will need to show proof of residency.
Identification such as a driver’s license, utility receipt or school ID will suffice. At least one family member must show proof of residency at the gate.

Upper Valley Appreciation Days
2026-10-09 08:00 - 2026-10-11 17:00 (America/Chicago)
It’s Upper Valley Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the 9th, 10th and 11th of October! Residents from Hidalgo and Starr County can enjoy the Zoo for just six dollars per adult and four dollars per child! That’s right! – Get up close with our new emus, see the gorillas and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline. Just show proof of residency at the gate!

Boo at the Zoo
2026-10-30 18:00 - 2026-10-31 21:00 UTC
The Gladys Porter Zoo will hold “Boo at the Zoo” celebration Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Become a Zoo member and you are eligible to come in early during the members’ only hour from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Come out for a ghoulish good time at this alternative way to trick-or-treat – perfect for kids, teens and families alike!
Boo at the Zoo guests of all ages are encouraged to come out in their favorite Halloween costumes. There will be more than 50 different game and treat stations.
Concessions
Zoo Concessions will have a number of snacks for you and your family to enjoy while at Boo at the Zoo! Prepare your palate for turkey legs, roasted corn, pizza, popsicles, Dippin’ Dots, nachos and more. Yum!
Zoo members have free access to the event and can get in early starting at 5 p.m. each night by showing their membership card. To alleviate congestion, there will be a total of three entrances; the main Zoo gate, a side gate near parking lot (pre-paid admission only), and a members-only entrance at the new Membership office.
Please be aware that due to construction on Ringgold Street there is no thru access from Palm Blvd. onto Ringgold Street. Parking will be available but is limited so be sure to arrive early or consider carpooling.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I become a Zoo member?
Sign up to become a member before Boo at the Zoo! Zoo members have free access to the event and can get in as early as 5:00 p.m. each night by showing their membership card with photo ID. Also, members avoid long lines with special members-only entrance. Call the Zoo at (956) 546-7187 today for membership details!
Can I purchase my tickets in advance?
Purchase your Boo at the Zoo tickets in advance at the Zoo’s front office.
Where are the entrances?
Make sure to look for directional signs to enter Boo at the Zoo. There will be a total of three entrances; the main Zoo gate, a side gate off of 6th St., and a members-only entrance at the Zoo’s side exit.
Where can I park?
Parking can be a hassle, so try carpooling if possible. Zoo parking is available but limited.
Does the Zoo provide bags for treats?
Sometimes we have a limited supply of treat bags. Remember to bring your own trick-or-treat bags for all your Boo at the Zoo treats and prizes.
Does the Zoo have an ATM?
Yes, but we encourage you to have cash in hand for the event to avoid long lines at the ATM. We have two ATMs one outside of the main Zoo entrance and the other inside the Zoofari Gift Shop. To gain access to the ATM in the Zoofari Gift Shop you have to ask Zoo staff located in the stroller and wagon rental station to open the gift shop. Ticket booths will only be accepting cash to purchase tickets for games and food stations.
VOLUNTEERS
The Zoo is currently accepting volunteer applications, on a first come, first serve basis, for its most popular and spooktacular event of the year! Boo at the Zoo will be held on the evening of October 30th (Friday) and 31st (Saturday) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. There are only 50 volunteer booths available for the first 50 volunteers groups that turn in their complete application. Space is limited and the deadline for accepting applications is October 14th. If volunteer space is filled prior to deadline, applications submitted after space is filled will not be considered.
ZOO MEMBERS
Zoo membership has its privileges like free admission to “Boo at the Zoo” and special members-only hour at 5 p.m. The members’ only entrance is located in the new Membership building.
Boo at the Zoo member tickets are available for pick-up in the Zoo office during regular hours of operation. Members will need to show proof of their membership by bringing their cards and a driver’s license. If the cards were lost or stolen, please contact the Zoo office at (956) 546-7187 ext. 310 or email mems@gpz.org to make arrangements to purchase replacement cards.
Want to learn more about becoming a Zoo member or purchase a membership? Check out our membership benefits page.

Wild Tales
2026-11-14 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago)
One of the highest zoo attendance days for November is the day we hold our literacy event, Wild Tales. Over 3,000 people are present for the literacy and reading activities. The live animals and children’s book authors are the two main draws to the event. Over 1,000 children’s books are given out free to young readers.
The Zoo also offers a discounted school admission rate for all guests on this day: $6.00 for elementary and middle school students, $6.00 for high school and college students, and $7.00 for adults. The event is free with paid Zoo admission. Members get in free. According
to statistics for our region, for every 300 children living in a low-income household, only one book is owned in that home. The issue mentioned above, coupled with other factors as to why children don’t read, only adds to the lack of personal growth and less than high quality of life for each child.
Thank you to the run sponsors Brownsville Public Utilities Board, City of Brownsville, and Visit Brownsville.
Stay in Brownsville
Brownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo. Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.
