How to "Do" the Houston Zoo

I may the only parent who maintains a Houston Zoo membership for themselves.

Let me start by saying that I do NOT enjoy animals. I'm not a dog person. Or a cat person. We don't own a pet.

But I enjoy the zoo. There is something about it that's tranquil, and I feel like I've left the city - if only for a couple of hours.

Make no mistake... my children like it, too. It's a nice outing for all ages, and the membership almost pays for itself in two visits (given the size of my family). In our house, we really enjoy the African Forest and the reptile house. And, if you have time, the 4-D theater is a fun addition to your trip.

We've been so many times that I feel like an insider. But, no one knows the zoo like, well, the zoo. They've offered some great tips for making the most of your time there.

• Be prepared. Visit the zoo's website at www.houstonzoo.org before you visit, or take time to review the Daily Events.  You’ll find out about times and locations of animal feedings and special shows and presentations.
• Timing is everything. The animals are most active and the crowds are usually smaller first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during the heat of the summer. Fall and winter at the Zoo tend to be a bit less crowded than spring and summer – and since it’s cooler in the fall and winter, the animals are usually more active.
• Field trip warning.  Many schools schedule field trips in April and May, so the Zoo may be more crowded at these times, especially between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. each day.
• Be weather smart.  It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you embark on your Naturally Wild safari!  But don’t let a little rain keep you away.  Bring your umbrella, wear your raincoat and enjoy a less crowded day at the Zoo!
• Dress for success. No, we don’t suggest you wear your Sunday best.  Instead, wear comfortable clothing, especially loose fitting light fabrics during the summer and shoes that are suitable for walking.
• Be optically prepared. Bring binoculars the next time you visit the Zoo, so you can get a REALLY close look at our beautiful animals.  And don’t forget your camera!
• Easy does it. Take your time and enjoy your stay.  By spending a little extra time at each exhibit you’ll give the animals an opportunity to demonstrate natural behaviors such as grooming, courting and scent-marking.
• Kids rule. Children love the Zoo!  Parents can add to the experience with simple but engaging games and exercises. For example, pick a letter of the alphabet and see how many animals you can find whose names start with that letter. And don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for the little ones.  Kids love splashing around the water park in our Children’s Zoo on a hot day!  
• Be safe. To ensure the security of our animals and our guests, please observe the following safety precautions:
• Zoo animals are wild.  Please stay on the visitor paths, observe posted signs and do not reach into or climb on exhibits.
• Please do not throw things at the animals.
• Please do not feed the animals.
• Making loud noises may startle the animals.
• Pets, glass containers, alcohol, bikes, skates and skateboards, rollerblades, radios/CD players, and inflatable objects are not allowed on Zoo grounds.
• Please do not pick flowers or plants, climb trees or walk through the flower beds.Also, smoking is not allowed on Zoo grounds.

This is a great list of tips. Here's what I would add:

• You can bring your own lunch and snacks. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water. 
• Restrooms are plentiful.
• Gift shops are stationed at the exit and at the end of the African Forest.
• Parking is free, but difficult to find at peak times.
• If you can, plan to stick around after your Zoo visit and ride the Hermann Park train or feed some ducks.

The Houston Zoo is located at 6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. You can pick up a Zoo gate map when you come and visit, or visit the zoo's website.