Some say that everything is bigger in Texas and this is clearly the case at its wild animal parks. Travel to East Texas to see animals in the wild, expansive zoos that are home to lions and wildebeests or see the beautiful tigers at a wildlife refuge.
Located in the East Texas city of Tyler is the Caldwell Zoo, home to more than 2,000 animals. Traipse through the African Savanna and see the meerkats, wildebeests, cheetahs and African lions or explore the South America habitat and catch a glimpse of the giant anteaters, capybaras (think overgrown guinea pig) and Chilean flamingos. Other exhibits showcasing creatures from North America are also available. Caldwell Zoo also offers classes and day camps for kids interested in learning about the zoo and its inhabitants. Guests can bring their own lunch to enjoy at the designated picnic areas or have a meal at the Chakula Cafe near the African Overlook. The Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through Labor Day and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. after Labor Day through February. Parking is free for zoo guests.
Caldwell Zoo
2203 W. Martin Luther King Junior Blvd.
Tyler, TX 75702
903-593-0121
caldwellzoo.org
Your visit to the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari may have you thinking that you have somehow ventured into Africa. Jacksonville's wildlife park offers a 300-acre preserve that is home to Watusi, (African longhorn cows), Canadian Wood Bison, emus, zebras and water buffalo. Guests are free to drive through the preserve in their own cars and see the animals in their natural habitat. Guests can take pictures of the animals and even feed them. A private, guided tour is also available. The Safari is open seven days a week, but hours of operation do vary. The Safari is closed on major holidays.
Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari
1200 Country Road 4405
Jacksonville, TX 75766
903-683-3322
cherokeetrace.org
Located in Tyler, Texas, is a special wild animal park, the Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge is home to more than 40 tigers who have been rescued. These big tigers, saved from displacement, neglect or abuse, have been brought to the Refuge for rehabilitation and rescue. Visitors can see Bengal tigers, Siberian tigers, pumas and even a black Asian leopard. Guided tours are offered Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The refuge is closed on Sundays and major holidays. Parking is available for guests.
Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge
17552 Farm-to-Market 14
Tyler, TX 75706
903-858-1008
tigercreek.org
