These 5 Drive-Thru Safaris In Texas Are A Wild Adventure For The Whole Family
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 15, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Looking for a “wild” adventure the whole family can enjoy? Texas has plenty of ’em! These five drive-thru wildlife safaris feature some of the most exotic animals in the world, right here in the Lone Star State.
Home to over 600 animals from all over the world, Exotic Resort Zoo is a hidden Hill Country gem. From kangaroos to ostriches to camels and everything in-between, these four-legged friends welcome visitors with a smile on their face. More information here.
In true Texas-sized fashion, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is 450 acres of up-close animal encounters -- sometimes even closer than real African safaris provide! Marvel at 30+ species as you traverse more than six miles of lush, beautiful New Braunfels landscape. More information here.
Most likely the largest and most comprehensive wildlife ranch in Texas, Fossil Rim features over 1,000 animals across 50 species. The center has a core mission of conserving endangered species, a category about one-third of the animals belong to. The 9.5-mile, self-guided driving tour is an experience you'll never forget. More information here.
Minutes from Copperas Cove, Topsey Exotic Ranch features over 50 species in its drive-thru safari. In an effort to maintain the most natural setting possible, the 350-acre facility is primarily free-range. The Friedel family has been dedicated to "preserving the wonders of the animal kingdom" since 1988, and you can definitely feel the love. More information here.
Measuring in at 100+ acres, Franklin Drive-Thru Safari is an exotic animal adventure park that deserves a spot on the bucket list of every Texan. Not only will you get to meet adorable critters like this smiling donkey, but the park also offers an island full of lemurs, aviary, baby animal room, and encounters with sloths and dingos. More information here.
Special hours and precautions may be in place at any or all of the safaris, so check the websites or Facebook pages before visiting. You might have to purchase tickets in advance online, as well.
