El Paso Zoo, El Paso (must see)

Founded in 1930 in Washington Park, El Paso Zoo grew from animal displays that began in 1910, when residents first donated animals. Today, it covers about 35 acres and houses more than 220 species, with a focus on conservation and education. In March 2025, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums denied full accreditation due to maintenance issues in older guest areas, while still praising the zoo’s veterinary care and animal welfare standards.

The grounds are divided into four themed sections: Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Chihuahuan Desert. In the Africa area, giraffes, lions, zebras, and meerkats live in habitats designed to reflect open savannah terrain. Viewing platforms at different heights allow visitors to observe the animals from varied perspectives while maintaining safe distances.

The Asia section features Malayan tigers, red pandas, and a Greater Indian one-horned rhinoceros named Taj, who arrived in December 2023 and now lives in the former elephant habitat. The zoo’s last elephant, Savannah, was euthanized in January 2024 at age 71 due to arthritis. In the Americas area, visitors see sea lions, spider monkeys, and endangered Peninsular pronghorn involved in a conservation breeding program.

The Chihuahuan Desert exhibit highlights animals adapted to arid climates and connects global conservation themes to the surrounding region. Reptiles, birds, and desert mammals are presented alongside interpretive panels that explain water conservation and survival strategies in extreme heat. The Hunt Family Desert Spring adds a water play area for children while reinforcing environmental awareness.

Shaded walkways, the African Star Train, and daily keeper talks shape the overall visit. Seasonal programs and behind-the-scenes experiences such as “Close Encounters of the Wild Kind” provide deeper insight into the care of species like rhinos and pronghorn, underscoring the zoo’s ongoing role in regional conservation efforts.