Trying to figure out how to keep the entire family entertained during the summer without breaking the bank feels like an uphill battle sometimes. Thankfully, North Texas is home to plenty of free or super cheap things to do, including two upcoming Dollar Zoo Days at the Dallas Zoo.
The Dallas Zoo is offering $1 admission tickets for July 16 and August 4. Tickets are already available, and you’re encouraged to grab yours now while supplies last. Click here to purchase your $1 tickets. To start, choose how many adults and children will be included in your party and then proceed to the next page, which will populate a calendar of available dates. Be sure to select July 16 or August 4 to make sure you’re getting discounted admission.
Last year, the Dallas Zoo sold around 17,000 tickets, and it’s sure to sell an equally impressive amount in 2026. In addition to admission being offered for $1, deals will be available on certain food and beverage items at the Zoo on those days. To make sure you’re in good shape before you go, let’s talk about where to park, what time to get there, and everything else you need to know.
Everything you need to know about Dollar Zoo Days
Parking at the Dallas Zoo is limited on Dollar Zoo Days, so it’s best to arrive before the 9 a.m. opening time to secure a spot. Parking costs $14 per vehicle and must be purchased directly at ticket booths on site. Advance parking is not available for purchase through the zoo’s website.
The Dallas Zoo notes that once you arrive, you’ll need to head to the parking lot near the main entrance. Staff will be available on site to help everyone navigate the situation smoothly and fill in all available spots. Conversely, you can take the DART Red Line and bypass the parking situation altogether, as there’s a stop that brings you right to the Dallas Zoo’s entrance. More information on the Red Line and how much it costs can be found here.
To ensure everyone has a safe and comfortable experience, packing refillable water bottles and sunscreen is recommended. The Zoo has several water stations which are conveniently located and easily identified on maps that can be downloaded in advance. Please bear in mind that it will likely be extremely hot on those days, so staying hydrated and wearing cool clothing and hats can prevent health-related issues from occurring.
On July 16 and August 4, certain beverages and snacks will be available for purchase for $1-$4, including ice cream, popcorn, hot dogs, and canned drinks, among others. You’re allowed to bring food and drinks from home, however, you cannot bring in alcoholic beverages, glass items, or single-use disposable straws.
The McKinney family attended one of the Dallas Zoo’s Dollar Days in 2025, and they had a note of advice for Texans hoping to take advantage of the deal this year: “Make sure you have comfortable shoes, a lot of water snacks, cooling towels, ice water, a lot of cool things to keep cooled off.”
Staff at the Dallas Zoo emphasized that it will be very busy on those days and request that you remain patient and kind with them as they help everyone have the best experience possible.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Related: How to make the most of summer deals in DFW at a time when everyone is pinching pennies
