If you've ever wanted to visit the Galápagos Islands, you'll soon get the chance - and you don't even need a passport or plane ticket! In the fall of 2022, to celebrate its 100-year anniversary, the Houston Zoo will unveil a state-of-the-art exhibit showcasing the unique and diverse wildlife of the famous island chain. From the iconic Galápagos tortoises to sea lions and a whole host of other fascinating creatures, the exhibit will quickly become one of your favorites.

This tunnel of trees is among the most recognizable spots in Texas, marking the entrance to the beloved Houston Zoo.

First opened in September 1922, the 55-acre zoo is the second-most visited zoo in the U.S.

Over 6,000 animals across nearly a thousand different species call the zoo home, and you'll see everything from giraffes to tropical fish in every color imaginable.

Visitors of all ages have an absolute blast perusing the exhibits and coming face-to-face with all the incredible creatures.

In autumn of 2022, to celebrate its 100-year anniversary, the zoo is set to unveil a state-of-the-art Galápagos Islands exhibit that will transport visitors overseas without ever leaving Texas.

The first major exhibit of its kind to showcase the unique wildlife of the legendary archipelago, the addition promises to be fun, educational, and inspirational.

While the exhibit is obviously not complete, this artist rendering helps showcase what it will look like.

As you can see, the habitat will be quite expansive, featuring sea lions, sharks, and several other aquatic and land-dwelling animals.

Of course, the stars of the show will be the Galápagos tortoises, the largest living species of tortoise. They can grow to weigh nearly 1,000 pounds and have lifespans of up to 177 years!

The zoo already has some Galápagos tortoise, so feel free to come say hi even before the exhibit has opened.

Humboldt penguins will also be part of the Galápagos Islands exhibit, and the announcement has caused quite the hubbub among Houstonians.

These penguins are special in that they can survive in temperatures of up to 100 degrees - after all, the species does originate from South America. Their resilience makes them a perfect fit for the heat and humidity of Southeast Texas!

Address: 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030.

Current zoo hours are 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Visit the official website or Facebook page to keep up with the progression of the Galápagos Islands exhibit.

Are you excited about the Galápagos Islands exhibit at the Houston Zoo? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section, and check out our previous article for another zoo in Texas that's perfect for a family day trip.