The Dallas Zoo Field Trip Planner is an essential tool for educators and group leaders organizing educational visits to one of Texas’ premier wildlife attractions. This guide offers a detailed itinerary, group rates, educational programs, and interactive activities to ensure a memorable and enriching experience for students. From Wild Walks aligned with TEKS standards to animal encounters and exhibits, the Dallas Zoo provides a diverse range of learning opportunities for all age groups.
What is the Optimal Itinerary for a Dallas Zoo Field Trip?
Planning a successful field trip to the Dallas Zoo requires careful scheduling to maximize educational value and enjoyment. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- 8:00 AM – Arrival and Check-In
- Arrive at the zoo
- Check-in at the designated area
- Ensure all participants have tickets
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Park school buses (free) or additional vehicles ($12 fee)
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8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Entry and Orientation
- Enter the zoo
- Distribute maps and schedules
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Assign lead chaperones for subgroups
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9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Wild Walks or Self-Guided Tour
- Participate in a Wild Walk (if booked)
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Begin self-guided tour
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Animal Encounters and Exhibits
- Visit key exhibits (Giants of the Savanna, Hamill Family Play Area, Simmons Hippo Outpost)
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Attend Keeper Chats and demonstrations
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12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break
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Eat packed lunches in outdoor picnic areas
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1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Additional Activities
- Participate in walk-up activities or rides (additional fees may apply)
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Explore educational exhibits
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2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Wrap-Up and Departure
- Gather the group
- Ensure all participants are accounted for
- Depart from the zoo
What are the Group Rates and Discounts Available?
The Dallas Zoo offers special rates for school groups:
- Students and teachers: $9 per person
- Additional adults: $9 per person (purchase upon arrival)
- Title I schools may be eligible for discounts (contact Education Department)
- No free chaperone tickets provided
For guided tours:
– Wild Walks: $150 per program (up to 20 participants)
– Available Monday through Friday at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 12:30 PM
What Educational Programs Does the Dallas Zoo Offer?
The Dallas Zoo provides several educational programs tailored to different grade levels:
Wild Walks
- Adaptations
- Grade levels: 1st-8th
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $150 per program (up to 20 participants)
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TEKS alignment: 1.13A, 2.13B, 3.13A, etc.
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Habitats
- Grade levels: 1st-2nd
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $150 per program (up to 20 participants)
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TEKS alignment: 1.2A, 1.2B, 1.12A, etc.
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Food Chains & Webs
- Grade levels: 1st-5th
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $150 per program (up to 20 participants)
- TEKS alignment: 1.12C, 2.12B, 3.12B, etc.
Other Programs
- Animal Adventures Outreach
- Ages: 5 and up
- Duration: 45 minutes
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Features 6-7 ambassador animals
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Backstage Safari
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Includes animal feedings and behind-the-scenes experiences
What Field Trip Activities are Available at the Dallas Zoo?
The Dallas Zoo offers a variety of interactive exhibits and animal encounters:
- Keeper Chats and Demonstrations
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Free and scheduled throughout the day
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Animal Feedings and Rides
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Additional fees apply
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Key Exhibits
- Giants of the Savanna
- Hamill Family Play Area
- Simmons Hippo Outpost
Educational Workshops
- Wild Walks
- Guided tours aligned with Science TEKS
- Led by Zoo educators
- Pre-registration required (book during field trip checkout)
- Must be booked two weeks in advance
How to Ensure Accessibility and Pre-registration for Dallas Zoo Field Trips?
To ensure a smooth field trip experience:
- Communicate any accessibility needs to the Education Department in advance
- Pre-register for Wild Walks and other guided tours to secure spots
- Follow the zoo map and schedule provided upon arrival
- Designate meeting points in case of group separation
By following this Dallas Zoo Field Trip Planner, educators can create an engaging and educational experience for their students, making the most of the zoo’s diverse offerings and aligning with curriculum standards.