Ellen Trout Zoo Hours, Tickets, Price, Things to Do, Reviews
If you are looking for a fun and educational day out in East Texas, you might want to consider visiting Ellen Trout Zoo. This zoo is a hidden gem that offers a variety of animals, exhibits, and activities for visitors of all ages.
In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about Ellen Trout Zoo hours, tickets, prices, and things to do. By the end of this article, you will be ready to plan your visit to this amazing zoo.
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Ellen Trout Zoo Hours and Tickets
Ellen Trout Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Here are the details of the Ellen Trout Zoo Ticket Price:
| Ticket Type | Admission Fee | Membership Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $8 | – |
| Children (4-11 years) | $4 | – |
| Senior Citizens | $6 | – |
| Military Personnel | $6 | – |
| Individual | – | $35 |
| Couples | – | $50 |
| Families | – | $75 |
What to Expect at Ellen Trout Zoo
Ellen Trout Zoo has a variety of exhibits that showcase animals from different regions and habitats. Some of the highlights include:
- The African Savanna: Here you can see giraffes, rhinos, zebras, antelopes, and ostriches roaming in a spacious enclosure. You can also feed the giraffes at designated times for an extra fee.
- The Tropical Rainforest: This exhibit features animals that live in the lush and diverse rainforest ecosystems, such as monkeys, sloths, toucans, and tamarins. You can also walk through a butterfly garden and admire the colorful insects.
- The Big Cats: If you are a fan of felines, you will love this exhibit. You can see lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars up close and learn about their behaviors and conservation status.
- The Reptile House: This exhibit houses a collection of snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and turtles. You can also see a Komodo dragon, the largest living lizard in the world.
- The Hippo Pool: This exhibit allows you to view the hippos both above and below the water. You can watch them swim, play, and interact with each other.
These are just some of the exhibits you can explore at Ellen Trout Zoo. There are also many other animals to see, such as otters, bats, flamingos, and more.
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How to Reach Ellen Trout Zoo
Ellen Trout Zoo is located at 402 Zoo Circle, Lufkin, Texas 75904. You can reach the zoo by car, bus, or train.
- By car: The zoo is easily accessible from the north Loop 287. Exit north on Martin Luther King and turn left immediately onto Zoo Circle. Parking is available along the street or the parking lots in Ellen Trout Park.
- By bus: The zoo is served by the Lufkin Transit bus system. You can take Route 1, 2, or 3 and get off at the Zoo/Park stop. The bus fare is $1.50 for adults and $0.75 for children, seniors, and disabled.
- By train: The zoo is also close to the Lufkin Amtrak station, which is on the Texas Eagle route that connects Chicago and Los Angeles. You can walk or take a taxi from the station to the zoo. The train fare varies depending on the origin and destination.
Best Time to Visit Ellen Trout Zoo
Ellen Trout Zoo is open all year round, but some seasons and times are better than others to visit. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
- Weather: The zoo is located in East Texas, which has a humid subtropical climate. The summers are hot and humid, with average highs of 93°F (34°C) in July. The winters are mild and wet, with average lows of 38°F (3°C) in January. The spring and fall are pleasant and sunny, with average temperatures of 68°F (20°C) and 74°F (23°C) respectively. You may want to avoid visiting the zoo on very hot or cold days, as some animals may be less active or visible. The best time to visit the zoo in terms of weather is from March to May or from September to November.
- Crowds: The zoo is more crowded on weekends, holidays, and school breaks, as more locals and tourists visit the zoo. You may have to wait longer to see some exhibits or participate in some activities. The best time to visit the zoo in terms of crowds is on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
- Events: The zoo hosts several special events throughout the year, such as Zoo Boo, Zoo Brew, Princess and the Frog, and more. These events offer extra fun and entertainment for visitors, but they may also require additional fees or reservations. You can check the zoo’s website or Facebook page for the latest information on upcoming events. The best time to visit the zoo in terms of events is when there is one that interests you but be prepared to pay extra or book in advance.
Summary: The best time to visit Ellen Trout Zoo depends on your preferences and availability. You may want to consider the weather, crowds, and events when planning your visit.
Tips for Visiting Ellen Trout Zoo
To make your visit to Ellen Trout Zoo more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips to follow:
- Bring a camera: The zoo offers many opportunities for taking photos of the animals and the scenery. You can also take selfies with some of the animals, such as the giraffes and the hippos. However, please respect the animals and their habitats, and do not use flash or disturb them in any way.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes: The zoo covers an area of 15 acres (6.1 hectares), and you will have to walk a lot to see all the exhibits. You may also encounter some uneven terrain or stairs. Therefore, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that suit the weather. You may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent for protection.
- Bring snacks and drinks: The zoo has a concession stand that sells snacks and drinks, but you can also bring your own. However, please do not feed the animals or litter in the zoo. You can also enjoy a picnic at the Ellen Trout Park, which has tables, benches, and grills. The park also has a playground, a fishing lake, and a mini train that runs around the zoo.
- Check the schedule and map: The zoo has a daily schedule of animal feedings, keeper talks, and other activities that you can join or watch. You can find the schedule on the zoo’s website or at the entrance. You can also get a map of the zoo at the entrance or download it from the website. The map will help you navigate the zoo and find the exhibits and facilities you want to see.
Things to do near Ellen Trout Zoo
If you have some extra time after visiting the zoo, you may want to explore some of the other attractions and activities near the zoo. Here are some suggestions:
- The Museum of East Texas: This museum is located next to the zoo, and it showcases the art, history, and culture of East Texas. You can see exhibits of paintings, sculptures, quilts, and more. The museum also offers educational programs and events for children and adults. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.
- The Texas Forestry Museum: This museum is about 3 miles (4.8 km) from the zoo, and it tells the story of the forest industry in Texas. You can learn about the history, science, and technology of forestry, as well as the environmental and economic impacts of the industry. The museum also has a nature trail, a playground, and a gift shop. The museum is open Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.
- The Pines Theater: This theater is about 4 miles (6.4 km) from the zoo, and it is a historic venue that hosts live performances and movies. You can enjoy a variety of shows, such as musicals, concerts, comedies, and dramas. The theater also has a concession stand that sells popcorn, candy, and drinks. The theater is open on select days and times, depending on the schedule of events. You can check the theater’s website or Facebook page for the latest information on tickets and prices.
Summary: There are many things to do near Ellen Trout Zoo, such as visiting the Museum of East Texas, the Texas Forestry Museum, or the Pines Theater. You can enjoy the art, history, and culture of East Texas, as well as some entertainment and fun.
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Final Thoughts on Ellen Trout Zoo
Ellen Trout Zoo is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves animals and nature. You can see a variety of animals from different regions and habitats, learn about their conservation and care, and have fun with some interactive activities. You can also enjoy some other attractions and activities near the zoo, such as museums and theaters.
Ellen Trout Zoo is a great destination for families, couples, friends, or solo travelers. I hope this blog post has given you some useful information and tips on how to plan your visit to Ellen Trout Zoo.
Thank you for reading, and have a great time at the zoo!
FAQs on Ellen Trout Zoo
How much does Ellen Trout Zoo cost?
Ellen Trout Zoo offers a range of admission prices: Adult tickets are $7, seniors aged 60+ pay $6, and children aged 4-11 enter for $3.50. Toddlers aged 3 and under enjoy free entry. For precise pricing and potential discounts, please visit the official Ellen Trout Zoo website or contact their ticket office.
Can you fish at Ellen Trout Zoo?
Yes, fishing is allowed at Ellen Trout Park adjacent to Ellen Trout Zoo. The park features a picturesque lake that is regularly stocked, offering visitors a delightful fishing experience. Remember to check for any local fishing regulations before you go.
What is Lufkin Texas known for?
Lufkin, Texas is renowned for its rich history in the forestry industry and serves as a hub for the national forests in Texas. Key attractions include the Texas Forestry Museum, the Museum of East Texas, and the Ellen Trout Zoo, showcasing the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. Additionally, the city boasts natural resources like fuller’s earth, oil, and natural gas.
