Starting December 9, families in Texas who receive SNAP or WIC benefits can now join the Dallas Zoo for just $50 a year. This new initiative makes a beloved regional attraction more accessible to the communities that rely on these vital assistance programs.
A New Affordable Path to the Zoo
The Dallas Zoo has announced “Zoo For All,” a program designed to lower the cost of family-level memberships for families participating in Texas’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs. The goal is to ensure that every family has the opportunity to explore the zoo, officials said.
“Zoo For All is a crucial step toward removing barriers and making sure every family can connect with animals, nature, and conservation in meaningful ways,” Lisa New, CEO of the Dallas Zoo, said. “That core belief is central to everything we do here at the zoo, and we’re so proud to roll out this new program to help us extend our reach to even more families.”
How the Program Works
Qualified families can purchase one reduced‑price membership in person at the zoo’s membership booth. To do so, they must present a valid EBT card along with a matching state‑issued photo ID. The membership is valid for one year and costs $50, a significant discount compared with the standard price.
What Members Get
Zoo For All participants receive the same benefits as any family‑level member for a year, including:
- Free daily admission for up to four people per day (with named adult cardholder present)
- Free parking for one car per day
- Exclusive discounts on gift shop purchases, dining, additional guest tickets, rides, animal feedings, and premium exhibits like Destination: Dinosaurs and Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant
- Invitations to special member events, such as Member Happy Hours and monthly Member Mornings
- Priority access to and discounts on zoo education programs, camps, and classes
- Reciprocal membership to more than 150 zoos and aquariums nationwide
- Subscription to Wild Edition, the zoo’s digital member newsletter, which keeps families connected to zoo news year‑round
Why It Matters
The Dallas Zoo’s commitment to accessibility is underscored by its visitor statistics. On average, each year the zoo welcomes almost 60% of its visitors for $10 or less, with 13% attending for free, according to the release. By lowering the membership price for SNAP and WIC families, the zoo expands its reach to those who might otherwise be unable to afford a regular visit.
Key Takeaways
- Families in Texas who use SNAP or WIC can obtain a one‑year, family‑level membership for $50 starting Dec. 9.
- The program offers the same full suite of benefits as a standard membership, from free admission to reciprocal zoo access.
- The initiative reflects the Dallas Zoo’s ongoing effort to remove financial barriers and broaden community engagement.
For more information, visit the Dallas Zoo website.
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