Austin Zoo

With its underlying mission to assist animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation and education, the Austin Zoo is a fantastic any-day choice to give the kiddos an up-close encounter with a wide variety of critters and feel good about it—your nominal admission price goes directly to efforts to save endangered species and the care of the zoo’s animals, many of which are retired due to age and health issues, or have rescued from cruelty cases. You and your little ones can check out more than 300 animals of over 100 different species while exploring the 15-acre expanse of beautiful hill country. For the most scenic tour, take the 20-minute train ride (only $2.50 per person) and see some longhorns, alpacas and emus along the way!