outdoor safari dallas

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Choose your safari.

Self-Guided Tour

Take your own vehicle on a driving safari through our 500-acre wildlife park. See and feed over 500 animals from 40 different species at your own pace. 

Guided Tour

Join one of our Safari Animal Rangers and meet animals from around the world. Learn unique facts and hear personal stories from your Ranger Tour Guide.

Giraffe VIP Experience

Start your tour with an intimate encounter with giraffes led by one of our Safari Animal Rangers! Then, enjoy a guided tour of our 500-acre park. 

Group Adventures

In the comfort of your own caravan or bus, witness animals from around the world, visit giraffes, meet a troop of ring-tailed lemurs, enjoy lunch, and shop.

Educational Adventures

Take your class on a real safari where there's a learning adventure around every corner. Students will love being close to animals wilder than they are!

ADD AN EXCURSION

Prehistoric Experience

Walk amongst dozens of dinosaurs that move, breathe, and can't wait for you to maybe get a little too close. This excursion is sure to be memorable!

Aviary Experience

The only thing better than seeing our birds is feeding them! Come inside with food on popsicle sticks that dozens of budgies look forward to enjoying.

Conservation

The conservation of animals and ranchland is of utmost importance to us at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. We actively collaborate with organizations worldwide to promote a sustainable future for both animals and the land they inhabit.

Wild About Education

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is the perfect place to go on safari. But it's also a place to learn about the wonderful, wild world of animals.  Click on the articles below or on "Read More" to learn something you didn't already know! 

Wild Nature Institute for Education

Teacher's Prompt: Conservation

Horns & Antlers

Top 12 Must See Drive Through Safaris in Texas

Note: This post may contain affiliate links! Check our disclaimer if you need more info!

Looking for a drive through safari in Texas? Or want to know all the dive through safaris in Texas?

This might come as a surprise but you can experience an African safari right here in the great state of Texas!  Granted, very little tops seeing these majestic creatures in their homeland but if you’re looking for a Texan substitute, we’ve got a list of all the places you can find a drive through safari in Texas.

Looking for more Texas fun? Check out this list of the best amusement parks in Texas !

Before heading out on your adventure to explore drive through safaris in Texas, please call to verify operating hours, animal availability, and all the other fun details!

Drive Through Safaris in Texas

Natural bridge wildlife ranch , san antonio.

Explore 450 acres of Texas Hill Country during this 1.5 hour Texas drive through safari featuring animals from all over the world.  Each car is provided a bag of animal feed with the cost of admission.  The animals in the ranch will come to your vehicle to eat and allow you an up close view of their beauty. You will see buffalos, zebras, and ostriches during your adventure.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (@naturalbridge.wildliferanch)

Visitors can even explore the wildlife ranch on foot. You can relax at the on-site cafe and visit the lemur habitat and the giraffe center. Finish off your day by stopping at the gift shop for a nice souvenir of your day.

Aggieland Safari , Bryan

Want to visit a “traditional” zoo and experience a drive through safari in Texas all at the same time?  Aggieland Safari in Bryan is the place to be!  Admission includes entrance to their 250+ acre drive-thru safari.  For a small additional fee, you can receive a bucket of feed to share with the over 100 animals that call Aggieland Safari home.  Experience a personal visit from each of the animals on the safari without ever having to leave your car.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aggieland Safari (@aggielandsafari)

But the fun at Aggieland Safari doesn’t stop there!  Admission to their Adventure Zoo is included as well.  This 20-acre area is meant to be explored on foot but still provides the opportunity for up-close experiences.  Want to feed a giraffe?  You can do that here.  Want to feed a tortoise?  You can do that too.  There’s also a bird aviary, a camel trek, a petting zoo, a kid-friendly playscape, a covered pavilion, and a gift shop!

Rocky Ridge Drive Thru Safari , Eustace

Enjoy a 1 hour drive through a safari right in the heart of Texas with a visit to Rocky Ridge Drive Thru Safari. View the park from the comfort of your own vehicle while traveling through this 200 acre wild animal refuge. The park features over 25 species of animals from all over the world.

With animals like buffalo, llamas, zebras, and even gazelles, this drive through safari in Texas is the perfect afternoon activity with family!

​ Franklin Drive Thru Safari , Franklin

Your entire family will have fun playing, feeding, and interacting with animals from across the globe at this drive through safari in Texas. Franklin Drive Thru Safari has over 100 acres filled with more than 1,000 animals. The petting zoo is amazing with new animals consistently being adopted. As you drive through the safari, you will see over fifty different species of animals meandering around the ranch. ​ Franklin Drive Thru Safari even has a ten-acre area for walking. There’s so much to do: visit baby giraffes, camels, anteaters, or kangaroos; purchase a cup of peanuts and make friends with the park monkeys;  take a private tour with the trained staff; visit the adorable baby room to play with exotic babies animals like coatimundis and lemurs, or explore in your car to feed camels and zebras right from your vehicle.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , Glen Rose

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is one of the largest drive through safaris in Texas.  The ranch consists of over 1,800 acres and features nearly fifty different species among the 1,100 animals on the property. You can spend hours driving through the park looking at all of the different animals.

But the fun doesn’t stop there!  You can go on a bike tour or even a murder mystery tour.  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center also has photo workshops, an on-site cafe, and overnight lodging [bunkhouses, anyone?].

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (@fossilrim)

In addition to being a drive through safari in Texas, they are also the biggest cheetah breeding facility in the world.  Between eighteen and twenty cubs are raised here every year.  Many endangered species, such as the scimitar-horned oryx, have also been reintroduced to the wild thanks to the efforts of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.  They are truly a drive through safari dedicated to the well-being and conservation of their animals!

Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari , Jacksonville

Visit this 5-mile drive through Texas safari to see Rupert the camel and Minnie the yak. Your two-hour drive includes a free feed bag, 300 acres, 35 species, and 700 animals. Make friends with capybaras, zebras, alpacas, bison, and more as they approach your vehicle.

There is also a fenced-off enclosure with six alligators you can feed. The variety of wildlife present at Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari is simply amazing.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cherokee Trace (@cherokeetrace)

There is an open habitat with two dozen endangered and exotic species and open savannahs. Drive along the different roads to spot an African longhorn cow, an Indian antelope walking across a lush field, or a mother and her calf grazing by the pond. You and your family will make great memories feeding, photographing, and observing these gorgeous creatures.

Grapeland Safari , Grapeland

The Grapeland Safari offers 59 acres and 25 different species. Grab a bucket of feed, drive through this Texas safari, and enjoy these amazing creatures. Your kids will love the petting zoo. They can visit numerous animals including zebras, axis deer, emus, and yaks. Bring your grill and spend some quality time together enjoying a cookout in the picnic area.

The guests of honor at the Grapeland Safari are their camels.  They feature two different types of camels: Dromedary and Bactrian.  Each has its unique features [one hump or two?] and both types at Grapeland Safari are a hit with visitors due to their incredibly friendly nature.

Exotic Resort Zoo , Johnson City

Instead of driving through this Texas safari, you can relax and enjoy all 127 acres from the comfort of a tram. You will learn about the forty different species and 600 animals including the kissing camel [named Gomar], ostriches, and blackbucks.

There are endangered and exotic animals too. You can feed the friendly animals right out of your own feed bucket. Your family will laugh as thirty or forty animals surround your tram hoping for tidbits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Exotic Resort Zoo, Inc. (@exoticresortzoo)

After your tour, visit the two petting zoos, the fishing pond where you can catch and release the fish or spend the night in a cabin and enjoy a roaring campfire. Visit the charming gift shop for a memorable souvenir, the private penned areas, and the caged enclosures. The tour guides will ensure you know a lot more about the animals when you leave than when you arrived.

Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari , Jefferson

The Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari is home to over eighty animals. During your visit, you’ll enjoy wildebeests, camels, donkeys, red deer, bison, and more. The animals roam freely around the 65 acres. Follow the signs to drive to the exotic animals while seeing zebras and fallow deer along the way. 

Your entire family will enjoy the field filled with braying donkeys.  There’s a really good chance that the more social animals will approach your car to say hi!

If you want to get even closer to the animals, visit their on-site petting zoo.  Be sure to stop by their office to purchase buckets of food to share with the animals.  While you’re there, pick up a branded t-shirt and a souvenir to take home! You can take incredible photographs and visit the petting zoo.

North Texas Safari Park , Bonham

If you want to view exotic and endangered species from the comfort of your car, then North Texas Safari Park is the best drive through safari in Texas for you! Located about an hour north of Dallas, this drive through safari in Texas has all sorts of animals.

Experience more of the animals by partaking in their optional activities like feeding the giraffes, exploring their exhibit dedicated to Australian animals, petting animals in the petting zoo and more!

Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park , Jefferson

See exotic animals in their natural setting right in the middle of East Texas at this drive through safari.  Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park consists of 125 free-range safari acres. Drive the 3 mile loop in the comfort of your own vehicle while you see the animals naturally and up close.

With over 20 years of experience caring for exotic animals, this ranch works hard to ensure the wonders of the animal world are well preserved. Make sure you bring a camera to capture the incredible animals and bring home unforgettable souvenirs!

Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park , Evant

This drive through safari in Texas is a little different than others.  The entire safari is housed inside of a RV park. Their goal is to not only provide amazing animals for your viewing pleasure but to provide an overall family adventure – an economical one at that!

With over 23 animal species from 10 different countries, there are plenty of animals to see!

Have you visited a drive through safari in Texas?  Leave a comment below!

Montoya (Monty) Hudson is the founder and primary voice behind The Spring Break Family. She has created informative travel content for families since 2018 by providing practical advice, easy to follow itineraries, and addressing the real challenges of family travel. Since the creation of her family travel blog, she's inspired thousands of families to travel the world with their kids.

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The North Texas Safari Park is a family friendly park located in beautiful Bonham, Texas!

Come stop by and see us at north texas safari park.

We want you to have the experience of a lifetime. See the many animals from different parts of the world, including Africa, Asia and Australia!  Our Mission here at North Texas Safari Park is for you to enjoy our animals, while caring, promoting educational purposes, conservation and monitoring these wonderful species.

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Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim is a 1,800-acre wildlife preserve that is home to 1,100 rare and endangered animals that roam free in natural habitats. Started in the 1970s as a collection of exotic animals, Fossil Rim's focus has evolved into a mission for conservation of endangered animals, some on the brink of extinction. Primary importance is placed on the protection and proliferation of these fragile species; their successful breeding programs mean it's not unusual to see baby animals throughout the preserve.

Most visitors to Fossil Rim come for the scenic safari park tour, a 9.5-mile drive through hills, forests, and grassy plains. From the comfort of your car, you may see as many as 50 species of exotic animals, including cheetahs, wolves, giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, zebras, emus, and ostriches. Roll down your window and you may just get a visit from a giraffe or zebra asking for a snack. Halfway through the drive, take a break at The Overlook Café for delicious food surrounded by spectacular vistas. Visit the Children's Animal Center petting zoo, then browse the Nature Store for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Spend a day or two at Fossil Rim to experience an authentic wildlife safari in Texas. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation of the animals we share the planet with, as well a greater understanding of the importance of protecting and preserving them.

Before visiting, be sure to check our website for current pricing and current hours of operation.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center Hours and Ticket Prices

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Texas Safari Parks & Wildlife Parks

Texas is home to some great adventures, one of which are wildlife parks. Here’s our list of the best Texas Safari and Wildlife Parks, Preserves, and Tours. Visitors will be astonished by the original and innovative way of meeting, mingling, petting and seeing wildlife at any of the safari and wildlife park in Texas which offer an unsurpassed adventure in meeting wild animals and a one-of-a-kind, lasting, exciting memory in getting to know the wild. Visit one of the Texas Safari and Wildlife Parks and create you own exciting adventure. Incorporate a Texas Safari or Wildlife tour into your next family vacation.

North Texas Wildlife & Safari Parks

Fossil rim wildlife center (glen rose).

The 1700 acres lets you interact with deer, rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Drive through the 9-1/2 mile tour. You will see long distance views of savannah-like pastures, forested areas and hillsides for the animals to roam. Fossil Rim is a great family experience. This park is a spring break favorite, but beware… in my experience, the lines can get really long during school breaks!

In-Sync Exotics (Wylie)

As a non-profit organization they are dedicated to the rescue of neglected, abused and unwanted exotic felines and to educate the public about these beautiful cats. The story of each cat is posted on their enclosure, and information about each species is placed near the enclosures so you can learn about the animals that call In-Sync Exotics their forever home.

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch (Pilot Point)

This is a premiere exotic animal facility where they breed rare and endangered animals and supply them to zoos around the world. They provide animals for Jack Hanna shows and just filmed a Dirty Jobs episode with Mike Rowe. You can even get lunch there and watch the bears play!

East Texas Wildlife & Safari Parks

Cherokee trace (jacksonville).

Nestled in the lush piney woods of East Texas, this drive-thru safari is a home to an amazing variety of wildlife. See over a dozen exotic and endangered species that thrive in an open habitat similar to their native territory. Enjoy a self-guided drive through the hills & savannahs of this 300-acre preserve.

East Texas Gators & Wildlife Park (Grand Saline)

The farm has gator eggs ready to hatch, baby gators and adult gators of all sizes. The alligators have stopped eating until spring…they are laying on the banks of the pond for you to get a good look! Their duck/geese/swan pond has a covered pavilion and is perfect for a relaxing picnic.

South Texas Wildlife & Safari Parks

Grapeland safari park (grapeland).

This is a family owned business on 59 acres where you will see kangaroos, cockatoos, tortoise, llamas, capybaras, and many more. You can drive through in your own vehicle or use their bus for larger groups. You are able to feed the animals with food that is provided for you.

Bayou Wildlife Park (Alvin)

Your tour on special trams takes you over the 80 acres of prairie and woods with the guide delivering an exciting and interesting talk while you feed the animals. There are 50 species of animals and birds totaling 500 in number.

Central Texas / Hill Country Safari & Wildlife Parks

Aggieland wild animal safari (bryan).

How would you like to go on a safari? Sounds fun. With your ticket you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with hundreds of animals throughout their 250 acres. Make sure you purchase a bucket of feed. The animals will love you for it. After your Drive-Thru Safari hop out of your car and visit with 150 mammals, birds and reptiles in the 20 acre zoo.

Topsey Exotic Ranch (Copperas Cove)

Located on 350 acres of free-range safari, allowing the guests to experience wildlife in a natural setting. Their mission is to provide the animals who call Topsey Exotic Ranch home with the highest standard of care and husbandry practices, while providing the guests with a fun and unique way to experience wildlife in an up-close and natural way.

Y.O. Ranch Headquarters (Mountain Home)

View and photograph animals from around the world either on a Bus Tour, Private Tour, or their Deluxe Tour which gives you more time on the ranch. Their guides are fun and informative with fascinating facts about the animals. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring your binoculars if you wish.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (Between San Antonio& New Braunfels)

Wildlife Ranch offers the opportunity to view, photograph and feed animals. See species from all over the world from the comfort of your own vehicle. The oldest safari ranch in TX with 400 acres and 4 miles of exciting animals in the beautiful hill country. Read about our trip through  Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch .

Exotic Resort Zoo (Johnson City)

A small family owned wildlife preserve with over 500 animals and 80 different species. The preserve is home to several endangered species that now have a chance to increase their numbers. You can ride on a trailer through the 137 acres. Hundreds of exotic animals from antelope to zebras will come up to the trailer to be feed and petted. Read about our  fun experience at Exotic Resort Zoo .

If you want to get outside and experience some exotic animals, check out our map of Texas wildlife and safari parks .

Author: Simon Trask

Simon loves Texas and the Great Outdoors. From East Texas pines to West Texas mountains, he calls North Texas home but is always ready to float a river in Hill Country or go fishing on the Gulf Coast. Simon loves camping and road trips as well, whether it's cruising Highway 287, 82, 69 or 281, that's the true way to see what Texas is all about!

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With our busy spring season upon us, follow these expert tips to find parking, beat the crowds, and make the most of your Zoo visit.

Hours: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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Backstage Safari

100% of this program’s proceeds benefit the Dallas Zoo’s conservation efforts.

Saturday mornings

$170 for adults ($150 for member adult) $160 for youth ($140 for member youth)

Experience the Zoo like never before

Backstage Safari is our 90-minute guided tour that provides an inside scoop on how we care for our animals every single day.

Choose between two experiences:

Wilds of Africa

Experience exclusive animal encounters in Wilds of Africa, including:

• Feed apples to an African elephant, the world’s largest land mammal.
• Waddle alongside our penguins as you feed them.
• Attend a private Wild Encounters show at Camp Okapi with introductions to remarkable animals like tamanduas, southern ground hornbills, tortoises, and more.

Experience exclusive animal encounters in ZooNorth, including:

• Get up close with our tigers in a unique setting.
• Feed our lively lemurs.
• Witness the playful antics of otters as you feed them.
• Learn all about our animals from the experts who care for them every day.

Choose Your Backstage Safari Session

Included in every Backstage Safari package:

• Free digital photos of your adventure
• Souvenir lanyard with badge and conservation wristbands
• Enjoy a complimentary giraffe feeding following your Backstage Safari
• Zoo admission and parking are included

Animal experiences are subject to change and may be substituted with another comparable experience.

Questions? Email us at [email protected] or give us a call at 469.554.7501 .

Safety: To help protect our animals from exposure to the viruses we humans may carry, we continue to require masks to participate in Backstage Safari. Gloves may also be required.

Groups: The maximum group size is 10. The minimum group size for the tour to operate is two. Participants must be 6 years of age or older. At least one adult is required per two children under the age of 16.

Cancellation Policy : The Dallas Zoo’s Backstage Safari is a very popular program with limited availability. It is an outdoor, all-weather event, and the Dallas Zoo reserves the right to cancel or modify the program for any reason, including inclement weather, animal health, and/or safety concerns. In the event of a weather cancellation, the Dallas Zoo will notify participants as early as possible, but no later than two hours prior to their scheduled program. Every effort will be made to reschedule your Backstage Safari for a later date.

Participants canceling more than seven days from their scheduled program will be refunded their full payment, minus a $25 cancellation fee per person. Due to the high demand and limited availability, there will be no refunds issued for participants canceling within seven days of their scheduled program.

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Fossil Rim: A Safari in the Southwest at Glen Rose, Texas

Posted on October 27, 2018 June 18, 2020 Author Priya 6 Comments

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Fossil Rim located in Glen Rose, Texas is just 2 hours drive from Dallas. Fossil Rim wildlife center is home to giraffe, ostrich, zebra, rhino, kudu, cheetah, addax, and other exotic residents.  It is one of the best drive through zoos and wildlife preserve in the US – a great safari experience right here in Texas! On this 9½ mile Scenic Drive  you can feed the animals from your car window. Or you take one of their Guided Tours. 

Kids love feeding the animals with the feed that you can buy at the entrance .  We have a giraffe fan in our family, he grew up with Jeffery the Giraffe by his bed and frequent visits to Toys-r-us to catch a glimpse of Geoffrey in action there.  If you are not from the US and don’t know who Geoffrey is, check him out here .

WHAT IS IN THIS POST

A Safari in Glen Rose Texas at Fossil Rim

Once you buy the tickets at the entrance at Fossil Rim in Glen Rose and start your driving on the loop around the park you will see all the animals out and about in action. We saw rhinos sloshing around, ostrich having a race with each other, kudus nibbling on the grass.  We even had some come to the car anxiously looking for food while others with bellies full from previous encounters with park visitors didn’t care for more of the feed. We had a giraffe with a droopy tongue following us around for a while! We even had a staring contest with a zebra !!

Fossil Rim has a couple of lodging options – A rustic ranch house lodge and Safari Tents . Foothills Safari Camp are tents that are made to look like safari tents in Africa. A two-acre fenced enclosure overlooking one of Fossil Rim’s most popular wildlife watering holes, where an ever-changing variety of animals, from elegant sand hill cranes to families of waterbuck, can be viewed.

We did the Fossil Rim Safari as a day trip from Dallas, staying at the Foothills Safari Camp is on our bucket list! It would be a wonderful experience to see how the kids do before planning a big Safari trip to Africa.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Not too far from Fossil Rim is a special Texas State Park!  At the Dinosaur Valley State Park you can trace the footprints left by dinosaurs in the bed of the Paluxy River in what is believed to be the edge of an ancient ocean million of years ago.  The foot print areas are roped off for people to view and to preserve them. You can see more details about the Texas State Park here .

Additional Information for visiting Fossil Rim in Glen Rose, TX

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center works to aid in the conservation of animal species under the threat of extinction in the wild. Fossil Rim use these three key strategies to help fulfill their mission – conservation breeding, research and education. Fossil Rim’s large and open spaces provide the ideal situation for successful conservation breeding programs of some of the species that are in peril. They have also been successful in breeding cheetahs, Attwater’s prairie chickens, black rhinos, white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras and several wolf species .  While some animals born in Fossil Rim are reintroduced to the wild, some animals leave the safari park to populate zoos or other conservation centers in the US and abroad.

Fossil Rim is located one hour southwest of Fort Worth and two hours from Dallas via US 67. Approximately three miles west of Glen Rose, turn left onto County Road 2008. In addition to the regular scenic drive, you can also offer other fun programs like the Discovery After Dark, Sunset Safari and dinner, Feed Run, Behind the scenes tour etc.  The feed is about $8 per car.

Weekday Admission prices: Adults: $20.95 per person Child (3-11): $14.95 per person 2 and Under: FREE per person Weekend Admission price Adults: $24.95 per person Child (3-11): $18.95 per person 2 and Under: FREE per person

Where to stay in Glen Rose, TX

While we visited Fossil Rim as a day trip from Dallas, you can easily spend a weekend basing yourself in Glen Rose, TX.  Glen Rose is also home to some excellent golf courses, good bluegrass music, and Dinosaur Valley State Park where you can hike and bike on scenic trails and see the dinosaur footprints.

Located in a peaceful corner of the Fossil Rim park with incredible views, The Lodge has spacious rooms and the stay includes hot breakfast and a scenic wildlife drive. Exclusively available to the Lodge and Foothills Safari Camp overnight guests, there is also the option to experience a Morning Safari Tour or a Behind-the-Scenes Morning Safari Tour – both at a discount from standard rates. The guests are picked up right after breakfast, so there is no need to drive anywhere and will be dropped back off at their automobiles. Staying inside the park gives you a preview of what an African Safari might be like.

Inn on the River is another option, a meticulously restored Inn that offers nice dining, personalized service for family and romantic getaways in Glen Rose, TX.

The foothills Safari Camp is perfect for two people who want to experience an overnight stay at the Park.  For families, you would need to rent more than one Camp.

I hope you plan a Fossil Rim to enjoy a safari experience at this drive-through zoo and wildlife preserve in Texas.

You might also like: Other Day trips from Dallas

If you want some safari inspiration, see a safari in florida , what to pack for a family safari , photos from the  masai mara great migration , soaring about the savannah in a hot air balloon safari in serengeti  and 6 things to do in nairobi and other posts from africa ..

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Note:  This post may contain affiliate links, partnership or sponsored content. If you purchase an item via one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. But as always images and opinions are our own. For more information on our affiliates and privacy policy at Outside Suburbia see here .

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6 thoughts on “Fossil Rim: A Safari in the Southwest at Glen Rose, Texas”

Wow, looks like such an amazing time!

This looks like a lot of fun. I have seen these in a few states and would love to try. Love the fact that your kid loved Geoffrey too!

This is so fun! We have one here in Nebraska with less exotic but equally interesting animals. I love being able to get so close!!

That is so cool! How fun!

When I was in South Africa I was able to do a safari and it was a great experience! Very cool and educational! I had no idea these existed in the USA but this looks like a blast thanks for sharing!

How fun – we want to go visit South Africa someday, till then it is visits to the Fossil rim to satiate our safari dreams.

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These Are the Best Drive-Thru Safaris in Texas

By Catherine Wendlandt March 21, 2022

Image: Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Remember going to the zoo as a kid , 

wandering past exotic creatures that you’d only ever seen in movies like The Lion King ? All the magic and joy in the air, as you stand just outside enclosures of zebras, monkeys, and wildebeest, peering inside, ice cream cone in hand?  Well, at our state’s many drive-through safaris, the roles are reversed. Animals peer in to your vehicle as you hold in hand food meant for them alone to eat.

At these safaris, you can learn about animals from all over the world as they roam freely like they would in the wild—but, you know, all from the comfort of your own car and only a couple hours from home.

Here are seven drive-thru safaris worth a road trip from Houston.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Franklin Drive Thru Safari (@franklinsafari)

Franklin Drive Thru Safari

Franklin | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. | $20; Kids 2 and under free

Drive time from Houston: 2 hours

This 100-acre park is home to 500-plus animals. Watch for more than 50 different animal species on the mile-long drive. There’s also a 10-acre walking section where you might spot kangaroos, anteaters  camels, or Natalia, a baby giraffe. Get a feed bucket for $5, or make friends with the monkeys with a $2 cup of peanuts. You can go on a private tour of the park, but manager Amber Clay says most people’s favorite part is the Baby Room, where guests can play with some of the park’s exotic babies, such as lemurs and coatimundi, for an extra $20.  

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Brian Stephens (@grapelandsafarionline)

Grapeland Safari

13440 Us Highway 287 N, Grapeland | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | $15.95; kids 1 and under free Drive time from Houston: 2 hours Nona Herring has been in the drive-thru safari business since the 1980s, when her family used to own a safari park outside of Tyler. Since 2005, she’s run the 59-acre Grapeland Safari, halfway between Crockett and Palestine. Bring your binoculars, get a cup of feed (free with admission), and try to identify the 38 species in the park and petting zoo: zebras, emus, axis deer and yaks among them. You can also bring your grill and have a cookout in the safari’s picnic area.

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Exotic Resort Zoo

235 Zoo Trail, Johnson City | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m | $17.95; $14.95 for kids Drive time from Houston: 3.5 hours Cars aren’t allowed to drive through this 127-acre ranch, but take a tour on one of its five trams to learn about the 500 animals and 40 species here—blackbucks, ostriches and Gomar, the kissing camel. The animals are friendly, especially when you’re armed with a $6 feed bucket (not included in the price of your ticket) . Owner Marilyn Bacque says that at any given time there could be 30 to 40 animals surrounding the tram, “begging for tidbits.” After your tour, check out the park’s two petting zoos, or stay the night in one of the ranch’s eight cabins and enjoy evening campfires and the catch-and-release fishing pond.

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Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

  2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose | 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | $24.95 per person; $19.95 for kids;  2 and under are free Drive time from Houston: 4 hours  This 1,800-acre ranch is an oasis for 1,100 animals from almost 50 different species, but it also happens to have the largest cheetah breeding facility in the world, raising 18 to 20 cubs each year. It takes a couple hours to drive through the park, but there’s so much more on offer here, including 14 different tours (a bike tour and a Murder Mystery tour), photo workshops, tasty burgers at the Overlook Café, and even cool accommodations like the lodge, cabins, and bunkhouses. While Fossil Rim offers an almost unending list of educational activities for its guests, the center’s main focus is on conservation of species in peril. They’ve even reintroduced species back into the wild, like the scimitar-horned oryx in Chad in 2016. 

The price is $24.95 per person for a one hour, self-guided drive-thru experience. One cup of animal feed is included with the ticket. The price for a Public Guided Tour on one of Fossil Rim's touring vehicles is $39.95 per person for guests age three and older. Each person will get one cup of animal feed. Note: Due to the pandemic, all tickets must be booked online prior to your visit. Please check the website for any updates before your visit.

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Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari

  1200 CR 4405, Jacksonville | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | $18.95; $13.95 kids; 2 and under free Drive time from Houston: 3 hours On your drive through Cherokee Trace’s 5-mile trail, be on the lookout for Minnie the Yak and protect your feedbags from a camel named Rupert, a “professional thief” who will stick his head into your car and gobble the whole bag down. With 700 animals, 35 species, and 300 acres, it takes about two hours to go through the whole thing, but your feedbag is free, so go ahead and make friends with the bison, alpacas, zebras, capybaras and more. Cherokee Trace even has six alligators, which live in their own fenced-off enclosure and, yes, you can feed them.  Hours change depending on the time of year, so be sure to check the website before you go.

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Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | $28.99; $19.99 kids; 2 and under free Drive time from Houston: 3 hours Life at Natural Bridge is a moving picture, says wildlife specialist Tiffany Soechting, with 500 animals and 40 species roaming freely throughout the 450-acre ranch.  It takes about 1.5 hours to drive through the conservation-minded ranch (you can drive-through again for free too), and about half of the species here are endangered, including a herd of scimitar-horned oryx, the gibbons and reticulated giraffes. In 2017, its staff went on a multi-national research expedition to South Africa to learn more about giraffe breeding in the wild, and are working to produce more outreach programs here in the U.S. Don’t forget to check out the petting barnyard and the great burgers and queso at the Safari Camp Grill. Hours change depending on time of year, so be sure to check the website before you go.

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Animal Encounters at Blue Hills Ranch

2032 Blue Cut Rd N., McGregor | By appointment only | $60 per person Drive time from Houston: 3 hours Boasting 150 acres of bluebonnet hills, and just 15 minutes outside of Waco, is Blue Hills Ranch and Giraffe Sanctuary. Not only is this place the perfect destination for animal-lovers, but it’s also a prime location for a dream wedding surrounded by four-legged friends. Choose to stay overnight at the RV park, or rent an animal or pirate-themed cabin for the whole family to enjoy a weekend getaway. On the private tour called Animal Encounters , you’ll meet giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, otters, mini cows, and can even bottle feed the baby animals. Please note that tours are by appointment only and are booked up to 60 days out. If you’re just coming to take pictures, you will still be charged full price. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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• Things to Do in Dallas

52 amazing outdoor things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth and surroundings.

Safe and sound outdoor things to do in Dallas and surroundings

Looking for outdoor activities in Dallas? We got you covered!

Dallas offers amazing open air attractions and places to visit, and finding cool outdoor things to do in the city is not a hard task if you know where to look for them.

In this post you will find 52 ideas on how to enjoy the outdoors in Dallas and surroundings.  Safe and sound ideas to enjoy life a lot while keeping safe (and sane). 

Choose your favorites and go explore!

Outdoor things to do in the summer?

And what about the excruciating hot Texas summer months, when being outdoors becomes virtually unbearable?

Explore our summer-themed posts and discover amazing state parks with swimming areas near Dallas and fun staycation ideas in DFW to cool off without even hitting the road.

DFW Outdoor Leisure Guide

1. outdoor things to do in dallas.

1. Visit the Dallas Zoo .

2. Cycle the 10ish-mile paved trail around beautiful  White Rock Lake and then paddle through the lake right in the middle of the city!

3. Visit the gorgeous Dallas Arboretum and its seasonal displays – the spring, fall and Christmas-themed events are not to be missed.

4. Grab a bite at one of the food-trucks at Klyde Warren Park and have a picnic on the grass.

5. Go mountain biking at top rated Big Cedar Wilderness DORBA Trai l.

6. Take a walk along the Nasher Sculpture Center ‘s gardens.

7. Jog, walk or cycle along Katy Trail, and then recharge at Katy Trail Ice House ‘s outdoor patio.

8. Go bird watching at the Trinity River Audubon Center

9. Walk on the top of the trees at the Trinity Forest Adventure Park .

10. Listen to live music at one of Dallas most popular Beer Gardens, the Truck Yard and The Rustic .

11. Take your four-legged friend to socialize at Dallas coolest pub for dog owners, Mutts Canine Cantina – it is an off-leash dog park too!

12. Experience a rooftop drive-in theater at Dallas’ Rooftop Cinema Club . 

13. Get your adrenaline going at the Six Flags Over Texas .

2. Outdoor Things to Do in Fort Worth

14. Feed the giraffes at one of the best zoos in the US, the Fort Worth Zoo .

15. Explore the Fort Worth Water Gardens .

16. Stroll through the beautiful Fort Worth Botanic Gardens.

17. Watch a movie from your car’s trunk at old fashioned Coyote Drive Inn .

18. Watch bison roaming free at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge .

19. Rent a kayak or SUP at Panther Island Pavilion and paddle the Trinity River with your furry friend in tow!

20. Visit Airfield Falls Conservation Park , home to the largest natural waterfall in DFW.

21. Hike along the lake shore at Eagle Mountain Park .

22. Stroll through the Fort Worth Stockyards and watch the daily cattle drive (11:30 am and 4:00 pm).

3. Outdoor Activities in the Dallas Suburbs

23. See life-size Animatronic Dinosaurs on a nature walk through beautiful Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary , in McKinney.

24. Zipline at Go Ape in Oak Point Park, in Plano, then explore the beautiful trails.

25. Take an eccentric and unforgettable nature walk with a llama at Shangrillama , in Royse City. 

26. Visit Southfork Ranch , film location of worldwide famous TV series “Dallas”, in Parker.

27. Head to Cedar Ridge Preserve, in Cedar Hill, to hike top-rated Cedar Brake Trail.

28. Camp under the stars only 25 minutes driving from Downtown Dallas, at beautiful Cedar Hill State Park  nature preserve in Cedar Hill.

29. Go horseback riding in Rockwall.

30. Take a nature walk through Prairie Creek Park , in Richardson, and discover its hidden waterfall. 

31. Have lunch or dinner at one of the lively and fun outdoor patios at The Boardwalk at Granite Park , in Plano.

32. Hike the North Shore Trail at Rockledge Park , by beautiful Grapevine Lake shores, in Grapevine.

33. See rescue exotic cats at In-Sync Exotics , in Wylie. 

34. Spring through fall, take a cruise on Lake Ray Hubbard to watch the sunset , in Rockwall.

4. Day Trips and Outdoor Places to Visit up to 1h30 from Dallas

35. Look for real dinosaur footprints along the Paluxy River riverbed, at Dinosaur Valley State Park .

36. Dig for fossils at Mineral Wells Fossil Park .

37. Step on a Mammoth excavation site , in Waco, and see firsthand real Colombian Mammoth fossils.

38. Take a drive-thru safari at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and feed the animals from your car.

39. Visit the famous Magnolia Market , from former fixer upper couple Joanna and Chip Gaines, in Waco.

40. Hike challenging Cross Timbers 14-mile trail , along Lake Texoma, and take in the gorgeous panoramic vistas.

41. Tour Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary , in Tyler.

42. Explore one of the 1 4 Texas State Parks in the Dallas surroundings , up to 1h30 driving from the city.

43. Take a self-guided wine tour through the 19 wineries part of the Piney Woods Wine Trail , with locations as close as one hour driving from Dallas…

44. …. or head West and explore Cross Timbers Wine Trail ‘s top-rated wineries  such as Blue Ostrich and 4R Ranch.

45. Kayak at Tyler State Park surrounded by tall tress in the gorgeous Piney Woods region of East Texas.

46. Rock-climb unique Penitentiary Hollow , at beautiful Mineral Wells State Park.

47. Visit Hagerman Wildlife Refuge , in Sherman.

48. Camp under the stars at Eisenhower State Park , with gorgeous panoramic views of Lake Texoma.

49. Be cowboy for a day at Beaumont Ranch , 1h15 from Dallas.

50. Feed and pet rescue animals at Sharkarosa Wildlife Center , in Pilot Point 

51. Hike at nearby Ray Roberts Lake State Park afterwards.

52. Shop and eat at Canton’s First Monday Trade Days , the largest outdoor flea market in the world.

Ready to get serious about outdoor fun?

Dallas and its surroundings offer tons of cool outdoor things to do! In this post you’ve found 52 safe and sound ideas on how to enjoy the outdoors in the city and surroundings.

A fine curation of 12 outdoor things to do in Dallas, 9 outstanding outdoor places to visit in Fort Worth, 11 outdoor activities to try in the Dallas suburbs,  17 destinations up to 1h30 driving from Dallas perfect for a day trip, and a handful of fun  activities to try at home and enjoy every single weekend of your year.

Get inspired and go enjoy the best outdoor things to do in Dallas!

I truly hope this outdoor fun guide helps to keep you active, full of energy and inspired through the year.

Choose your favorite activities and places to visit, create your own outdoor wish list and start having fun. Now!

What are your favorite outdoor things to do in Dallas? Do you know of any other amazing place to enjoy the outdoors in DFW and surroundings, not mentioned in this post?

Share your wisdom in the comments!

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• Trips from Dallas
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Moon River Ranch

Welcome to Moon River Ranch

Endless Nature Escape

Luxury Rustic Accomodations

Wild Safari

Animal Tours

Unforgettable Memories

Twinkling Stars & Amber Sunrises

Your Texas Safari Getaway

Experience the serene beauty of texas at moon river ranch. book your stay today and enjoy unique luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views, and a safari experience like no other..

Picture Perfect Events

We set the scene for unforgettable events; from romantic weddings to corporate gatherings, our scenic ranch offers a stunning fusion of nature and luxury. let the natural beauty of the ranch, plus a unique safari experience to elevate your special occasion..

Meet the Animals

Dromedary Camels

Native to: North Africa & Asia

Native to: Southeast Africa

Antelope: Addax, Oryx & Gemsbok

Native to: North America

Native to: South America

Wildebeests

Native to: Southern Africa

Deer: Red Stag, Axis, Pere David

Native to: Europe, India & Asia

Native to: India & Sri Lanka

Lodging at Moon River Ranch

Captivating Riverfront Wagons

An unique riverside escape, where old western blends with comfort and function. Studio with 1 bath with with options for 2 or 3 beds, sleeps 3-5.

Riverfront Boathouse

Rustic design meets comfort, providing the essence of lakeside living. 1 large studio & 1 small bedroom, 5 beds, sleeps 6-8.

Farm House Family Cabin

Witness the charm of rustic living paired with a thoughtful touch. Farm House: 2 bedrooms, 6 beds, sleeps 8.

Farm House Hotel Suites

Witness the charm of rustic living paired with thoughtful a thoughtful touch. Hotel Suite: studio with 1 or 2 bed options, sleeps 2-3; 

The Classic Yellow Hotel

Our yellow hotel is offers a vibrant sanctuary that feels like a warm embrace. 1 large studio, 1 bed, 1 bath, sleeps 2-3.

Uncover the gate house's unique charm, where farm house aesthetics fuse with present day comforts. 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 3 baths, sleeps 8.

Our signature casitas, artfully designed with a focus on functionality for a sleek, yet cozy, living space. 1 bedroom, 1 bed & 1 sofa futon, sleeps 3-4.

Rose, Jasmine, & Dahlia

Our signature casitas, artfully designed with a focus on functionality for a sleek, yet cozy, living space. 1 bedroom with loft, with 2 or 3 bed options, sleeps 4-5.

Hear From Our Guests

jdaniels1977 from CA

"Best Kept Secret in Texas"

“I had a great time at Moon River Ranch getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city and being able to connect with nature. The ranch is a beautiful place and the animals are so friendly. I was able to learn about all of the different animals and the kids got to help feed them."

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If you’d like more information about our venue and amenities, get in touch today.

Located near Waco, Tx, Moon River Ranch is a getaway lodging retreat, and a stunning venue for weddings and corporate events, all centered around our safari experience that spans over 550 acres of nature, along with 500+ wild animals, from Zebras to Wildebeasts to Oryxs to Long Horns, and more. Come stay with us and experience Texas like no other!

Texas Safari is temporarily closed to house and event rentals.   We are in the process of updating our facilities and want to devote our time and efforts to the updates and our beloved animals.

We will reopen Summer 2025.  We are so grateful for your support and understanding during this time.  Please check our social media for updates!

Our Private Exotic Wildlife Park is the Perfect Venue for Your Wedding, Corporate Event, Family Gathering, or Romantic Weekend Getaway.

Texas Safari is a private park, open to guests to rent year-round. The facility is perfect for weddings, family reunions, corporate events, and parties of all kinds!  Come visit our picturesque Western Town and hundreds of exotic animals! We have 3 luxurious cabins on the property that can host up to 27 guests all together.

Click Here To Learn More About Lodging

Texas Safari is no longer open to the public as a drive-through game park.

A minimum two-night stay is required.  Our booking system will not accept single-night reservations and will show dates of less than two consecutive nights as "unavailable".

Texas Safari Featured on Texas Today

 Texas Safari is honored to have been featured on NBC today!  We hope y’all enjoy the wonderful video that Kristin Dickerson TV, Jessica Grose and their team at “Texas Today” put together of the highlights from their stay at the park.  Their video turned out great and they were such a pleasure to show around.

Watch the Video

Tour the Giraffe House!

Texas Safari was recently featured in D Magazine as a top 10 place in Texas to visit!

The Oldest Wildlife Park In Texas.

Texas Safari is full of history. It has been in operation since 1975, making it the oldest wildlife park in Texas. The original log cabin, in which the original settlers lived in and fought Comanche Indians out of, was built in 1850 and is still on the property. 2 barns built in 1870 are also located on the land. Today, the facility is run by 6th and 7th generation Texans.

The park sits on the historic Chisholm Trail, which was originally used by Indian hunting parties and later became one of the largest trails for Texas cattle drives.

Texas Safari is known for unforgettable parties, family reunions, and weddings, as well as corporate and private events. Whether it be the picturesque Western Town, or the wildlife roaming before your very eyes, your guests are sure to be amazed!

Kick off your boots and stay a while! Book your stay at one of our luxurious cabins. If you're lucky, you'll be woken by Marsha, our sweet and mischievous camel!

Read the Reviews About the Park

Interact With Over 600 Exotic Animals.

Texas Safari is home to over 600 exotics, from antelope to zebra. We have many Pere David deer from China that are extinct in the wild but exist on facilities like ours due to world-class breeding programs. The Dama Gazelle, Scimitar Oryx, Lechwe, and the Grevy's Zebra are on the endangered list.

As a breeding facility, we strive to expand the population of endangered animals. Our mission is to maintain the wellbeing of each and every animal in our care. All proceeds from our cabin rentals go towards feed and veterinary care.

You can drive around the park to freely interact with the animals. There are 10 miles of paved roads for your use. Please note that while our animals are friendly, they are still wild so treat them as such.

Learn More About the Animals

A World-Class Facility in the Heart of Texas.

Texas Safari is a world-class facility located in the Northern Texas Hill Country outside of the town of Clifton, just forty miles from Waco, ninety minutes from Dallas , and minutes from great restaurants, museums, art venues and golf.

For More Info:

Texas Safari

192 PRIVATE ROAD 4293 • CLIFTON TX 76634

Copyright © 2023 Texas Safari.  All rights reserved.

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• About Our Zoo
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• Our Inhabitants
• Guided Tours

Private Guided Tours

• Petting Zoo
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• The Bear’s Den
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• Omar’s Oasis
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Welcome to the Exotic Resort Zoo & Safari Cabins!

Where things are always wild & there is fun for all ages we are open 362 days of the year from 9am to 6pm; last tour leaves no later than 4:30pm.  johnson city is playing center stage for a total solar eclipse on monday, april 8th, 2023 for that day only , we are requiring our visitors to purchase a parking pass along with tickets through our website. we have a limited number of parking and we are expecting a massive influx of visitors, so don’t wait to reserve your spot  the only days we close are easter sunday, thanksgiving and christmas day. additionally, our hours remain the same year ‘round, our park is home to 700+ animals representing 45+ species. with a few tour options, you are sure to create fun memories for a lifetime while learning about our conservation and preservation efforts, no dogs are allowed at the exotic resort zoo.

Our animals see ALL dogs as their natural predator, so this also includes service animals! The United States Department of Justice says: “At a zoo, service animals can  be restricted from areas where the animals on display are the natural prey or natural predators of dogs, where the presence of a dog would be disruptive, causing the displayed animals to behave aggressively or become agitated.” Because of the nature of our park, our animals are on display from the moment you enter our gates. A dog of any form would cause distress to our animals, creating a dangerous environment for them and for you. You may read more about the restrictions of Service Animals at a zoo by clicking  here .

Click on an option below to learn more:

Guided safari tours, drive-thru safari, safari cabin rentals .

For your visit, we offer one-of-a-kind Guided Tours (tractor ride) through the park. Typically, the longest wait is around 30-45 minutes, however this is subject to change depending on availability and the rate of visitors in attendance that day. In our opinion, the Guided Tour is definitely worth the wait for a more unique experience!

Heads up: It’s Field Trip Season! We have wonderful groups of children in attendance in the mornings of almost every weekday. You are welcome to jump aboard the Guided Tour with the kids for a wild experience or opt to wait for another ride.

You can also tour the park in your own vehicle! If you are interested in the Drive-Thru (your vehicle) option, you must buy tickets online to reserve a spot with no exceptions. Once we sell out of drive-thru tickets, you are not guaranteed entry.

Please keep in mind that we are closed on Easter Day!

Planning to visit us during the eclipse weekend? Reserve your spot online now! See you soon!

The DSC Convention and Sporting Expo is one of the biggest conservation fundraising events in the US. Over the past several years, the event has generated millions for conservation, education, and advocacy initiatives around the world.

Convention floor hours.

Thursday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sunday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Future Show Dates

Jan. 9-12, 2025 (Atlanta) Jan. 8-11, 2026 (Atlanta) Jan. 7-10, 2027 (Atlanta)

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Watch CBS News

How to watch the Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche NHL Playoffs game tonight: Game 6 livestream options, more

By Meredith Gordon

May 17, 2024 / 2:31 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

The Dallas Stars face the Colorado Avalanche in Game 6 of the teams' NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series. The Stars lead the series 3-2 and hope to close out the series tonight with a win. The Avalanche won't go down without a fight and aim to force a Game 7.

Keep reading for all the ways you can watch tonight's pivotal Stars vs. Avalanche game, even if you don't have cable.

How and when to watch Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche Game 6

Game 6 of the Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series will be played on May 17, 2024 at 10:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. PT). The game will air on TNT and stream on  Sling TV  and the platforms featured below.

How to watch the Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche Game 6 without cable

If your cable subscription doesn't carry TNT, or you've cut the cord with your cable company, you can still watch the playoffs. Below are the platforms on which you can watch today's NHL Playoffs game.

Save $25 on Sling TV: The most cost-effective way to stream the Stars vs. Avalanche game

If you don't have cable and you want to watch the today's game, one of the most cost-effective ways to stream playoff games is through a  subscription to Sling TV .  To watch hockey in the postseason, you'll need a subscription to the Orange + Blue tier.

Sling's Orange + Blue tier costs $60 per month, but the platform is currently offering $25 off the first month of any pricing tier, making the Orange + Blue tier $35 for the first month. You can cancel anytime.

Top features of Sling TV Orange + Blue tier:

• Sling TV is our top choice to stream the  NHL Playoffs .
• There are 46 channels to watch in total, including ABC, NBC and Fox (where available).
• You get access to NHL games airing on TNT and TBS, which Fubo doesn't carry.
• All subscription tiers include 50 hours of cloud-based DVR storage.

Watch the Stars vs. Avalanche game for free on Max

Max ,  formerly known as HBO Max, is known for streaming top-tier HBO content like "Succession" and "House of the Dragon". Now, hockey fans can enjoy NHL Playoffs games on the streamer with the B/R sports add-on. You'll need a Max subscription to access B/R sports content like the NHL Playoffs and the NBA Playoffs. Some blackouts do apply.

A subscription to Max starts at $10 per month. The B/R sports add-on is currently free.

Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle : Watch the Stars vs. Avalanche game live for free

You can watch today's game with the  Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle . The bundle features 95 channels, including ABC, TNT, TBS, local network affiliates and ESPN. It also includes  the ESPN+ streaming service . Unlimited DVR storage is also included. Watch the 2024 NHL Playoffs, MLB this season and network-aired NFL games next season with Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle.

Hulu + Live TV comes bundled with ESPN+ and Disney+. It's priced at $77 per month after a three-day free trial.

Fanatics has the latest NHL Playoffs fan gear

Rooting from home is more fun while repping your team with the latest NHL fan gear. Fanatics is our first stop for the newest NHL fan gear, our go-to for the latest drop of NHL Playoffs and NHL Finals merch like jerseys, commemorative T-shirts, hats and more. Fanatics also has just-released NFL Draft jerseys, like No. 1 overall draft pick  Caleb Williams ' new Chicago Bears jersey. Free shipping is available on orders over $24 (use code 24SHIP) .

2024 NHL Playoffs: Full schedule

The second round of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs is a best-of-seven series beginning on May 5, 2024.

Second round schedule

Below is the schedule for the second round of the 2024 NHL Playoffs. All times Eastern.

Eastern Conference

(1) New York Rangers vs. (2) Carolina Hurricanes

Game 1: |  Rangers 4, Hurricanes 3  |  Recap Game 2: |  Rangers 4, Hurricanes 3  (OT2) |  Recap Game 3: |  Rangers 3, Hurricanes 2  |  Recap Game 4: |  Hurricanes 4, Rangers 3 |  Recap Game 5: |  Hurricanes 4, Rangers 1 |  Recap Game 6: |  Rangers 5, Hurricanes 3  |  Recap

New York wins the series 4-2

(1) Florida Panthers vs. (2) Boston Bruins

Game 1: |  Bruins 5, Panthers 1  |  Recap Game 2: |  Panthers 6, Bruins 1 |  Recap Game 3: |  Panthers 6, Bruins 2 |  Recap Game 4: |  Panthers 3, Bruins 2 |  Recap Game 5: | Bruins 2, Panthers 1 | Recap Game 6: | Friday, May 17, TBD | at BOS | TV: TBD Game 7*: | Sunday, May 19, TBD | at FLA | TV: TBD

Florida leads the series 3-2

Western Conference

(1) Dallas Stars vs. (3) Colorado Avalanche

Game 1: |  Avalanche 4, Stars 3  |  Recap Game 2: |  Stars 5, Avalanche 3  |  Recap Game 3: |  Stars 4, Avalanche 1 |  Recap Game 4: |  Stars 5, Avalanche 1 |  Recap Game 5: |  Avalanche 5, Stars 3 |  Recap Game 6: | Friday, May 17, TBD | at COL | TV: TBD Game 7*: | Sunday, May 19, TBD | at DAL | TV: TBD

Dallas leads the series 3-2

(1) Vancouver Canucks vs. (2) Edmonton Oilers

Game 1: |  Canucks 5, Oilers 4 |  Recap Game 2: |  Oilers 4, Canucks 3 |  Recap Game 3: |  Canucks 4, Oilers 3 |  Recap Game 4: | Oilers 3, Canucks 2 | Recap Game 5: |  Canucks 3, Oilers 2 |  Recap Game 6: | Saturday, May 18, TBD | at EDM | TV: TBD Game 7*: | Monday, May 20, TBD | at VAN | TV: TBD

Vancouver leads the series 3-2

*if necessary

First round results

Below are the scores for the first round of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.

(1) New York Rangers vs. (WC2) Washington Capitals

Game 1: |  Rangers 4, Capitals 1  |  Recap Game 2: |  Rangers 4, Capitals 3  |  Recap Game 3: |  Rangers 3, Capitals 1  |  Recap Game 4: |  Rangers 4, Capitals 2  |  Recap

(2) Carolina Hurricanes vs. (3) New York Islanders

Game 1: |  Hurricanes 3, Islanders 1  |  Recap Game 2: |  Hurricanes 5, Islanders 3  |  Recap Game 3: |  Hurricanes 3, Islanders 2  |  Recap Game 4: |  Islanders 3, Hurricanes 2 (2OT)  |  Recap Game 5: |  Hurricanes 6, Islanders 3  |  Recap

(1) Florida Panthers vs. (WC1) Tampa Bay Lightning

Game 1: |  Panthers 3, Lightning 2  |  Recap Game 2: |  Panthers 3, Lightning 2 (OT)  |  Recap Game 3: |  Panthers 5, Lightning 3  |  Recap Game 4: |  Lightning 6, Panthers 3  |  Recap Game 5: |  Panthers 6, Lightning 1  |  Recap

(2) Boston Bruins vs. (3) Toronto Maple Leafs

Game 1: |  Bruins 5, Maple Leafs 1  |  Recap Game 2: |  Maple Leafs 3, Bruins 2  |  Recap Game 3: |  Bruins 4, Maple Leafs 2  |  Recap Game 4: |  Bruins 3, Maple Leafs 1  |  Recap Game 5: |  Maple Leafs 2, Bruins 1 (OT)  |  Recap Game 6: | Maple Leafs 2, Bruins 1 | Recap Game 7: |  Bruins 2, Maple Leafs 1 (OT) | Recap

(1) Dallas Stars vs. (WC2) Vegas Golden Knights

Game 1: |  Golden Knights 4, Stars 3  |  Recap Game 2: |  Golden Knights 2, Stars 1  |  Recap Game 3: |  Stars 3, Golden Knights 2 (OT)  |  Recap Game 4: |  Stars 4, Golden Knights 2  |  Recap Game 5: | Stars 3, Golden Knights 2  | Recap Game 6: | Golden Knights 2, Stars 0  | Recap Game 7: | Stars 2, Golden Knights 1 | Recap

(2) Winnipeg Jets vs. (3) Colorado Avalanche

Game 1: |  Jets 7, Avalanche 6  |  Recap Game 2: |  Avalanche 5, Jets 2  |  Recap Game 3: |  Avalanche 6, Jets 2  |  Recap Game 4: |  Avalanche 5, Jets 1  |  Recap Game 5: |  Avalanche 6, Jets 3  |  Recap

(1) Vancouver Canucks vs. (WC1) Nashville Predators

Game 1: |  Canucks 4, Predators 2  |  Recap Game 2: |  Predators 4, Canucks 1  |  Recap Game 3: |  Canucks 2, Predators 1  |  Recap Game 4: |  Canucks 4, Predators 3 (OT)  |  Recap Game 5: |  Predators 2, Canucks 1  |  Recap Game 6: | Canucks 1, Predators 0 | Recap

(2) Edmonton Oilers vs. (3) Los Angeles Kings

Game 1: |  Oilers 7, Kings 4  |  Recap Game 2: |  Kings 5, Oilers 4 (OT)  |  Recap Game 3: |  Oilers 6, Kings 1  |  Recap Game 4: |  Oilers 1, Kings 0  |  Recap Game 5: | Oilers 4, Kings 3 | Recap

When are the NHL Stanley Cup Finals?

The Stanley Cup Final is currently scheduled to begin on June 3, 2024. That date could change based on the duration of the Stanley Cup Conference finals. 

• Dallas Stars
• Stanley Cup Playoffs
• NHL Playoffs
• Stanley Cup

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Nature lovers, take a soul-soothing walk on Dallas’ wild side before spring plays out

The trinity river audubon center bounces back after pandemic as a hiker’s paradise and gateway to the great trinity forest..

By Sharon Grigsby

6:01 AM on May 16, 2024 CDT

Every time a reporting assignment takes me to the Trinity River Audubon Center , it feels like a spa day for my soul. The green sanctuary weathered the pandemic years, its staff and budget cut to the quick, and has blossomed this spring more glorious than ever.

Tucked away 10 miles south of downtown Dallas, this is a place of restoration still undiscovered by many. It mends the spirits of its human visitors as it nurtures a 120-acres of endangered blackland prairie.

Don’t come to TRAC — the acronym used by staff and volunteers — looking for manicured themed gardens or choreographed outdoor events. This place is wild, in the best sense of the word. It’s a hiker’s paradise and the gateway to the Great Trinity Forest , with 5 miles of trails meandering through untamed woodlands, wetlands and grasslands.

I wrote about TRAC’s struggles in the first year of the pandemic, when director Shelly White was forced to lay off almost her entire 12-person staff.

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For months, White has been eager to show me the progress TRAC’s tiny but expanding staff has made since those gloomy days in 2020.

What hasn’t changed is the peaceful feeling that settles in almost as soon as I turn off Great Trinity Forest Way and head down the half-mile driveway to the center.

Admission is free. Schoolchildren arrive on field trips to pet Sheldon, the box turtle, and look at pond organisms under microscopes. Weekend calendars are packed with educational programming such as bird and bug walks and bird-banding demonstrations.

While serious birders were out with their binoculars close to dawn May 11 for TRAC’s celebration of World Migratory Bird Day, I was content to tag lazily along with guides who helped our group spot warblers, buntings and flycatchers.

I occasionally hung back in a shady secluded spot to close my eyes and enjoy the long melodic trills and back-and-forth calls of the bird symphony. No matter how common or rare the bird, all their songs lowered my stress level, especially when the bullfrog on a nearby pond joined in.

The wildflowers put on their own big show: Texas dandelions with a highlighter glow, yellow clasping coneflowers, deep pink and pink-and-white bee balm, and Texas prairie parsley, its yellow flowers resembling upside-down umbrellas.

Tiger-striped swallowtail caterpillars munched on prairie parsley in preparation to gain their butterfly wings. Salt marsh moth caterpillars, their black fuzzy bodies undulating like a ballpark “wave,” crisscrossed the trails. A half dozen turtles sat sunning in single file on a limb that had fallen across a pond. Not far away, young trees were broken off near the boardwalk bridge, victims of a hungry beaver.

The land and its creatures are so beautiful it’s easy to forget the man-made ecological disaster done decades ago to this land and its residents. The damage began in 1982, when the city issued a permit for sand and gravel extraction on an 82-acre property next to what was then a residential area of Pleasant Grove.

The spot quickly became a massive illegal refuse site for tires, shingles, rusted cars, asbestos, waste lumber and acid containers. For years, the city mostly looked the other way. Neighbors of the “Deepwood” dump filed a lawsuit in 1997 that led to the land’s eventual transformation.

More than 2 million cubic yards of waste were removed; the rest was contained underground. In 2003, as part of the legal settlement, the city agreed to build a nature center on the site. TRAC opened in October 2008. The city owns the eco-friendly building and property, and the National Audubon Society manages and operates it.

“We are really here because of the community members and the fight they fought,” White told me. That’s why outreach, especially to the surrounding communities and institutions, is as important to TRAC as the educational opportunities offered at the site.

“For people who didn’t grow up with access to nature,” White said, “it’s not comfortable for them.” TRAC’s message in sharing its educational programming is “Let us come to you and talk about what we do.”

In the past, TRAC charged an entrance fee — $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and veterans and $3 for children. That changed almost two years ago, and this month White got the OK to continue free admission to visitors through 2024.

In 2023, about 8,000 people visited, not counting those who attended special events, a 200% increase from the previous year. Through April, almost 3,000 have visited this year.

TRAC staff and volunteers also speak with thousands more residents off-site at school career days and talks at southern Dallas community and rec centers.

“We are getting back to our pre-COVID numbers,” White said.

Thanks to May’s bond election and a match from the Eugene McDermott Foundation, TRAC will eventually get a redesigned indoor exhibit area and adjacent outdoor space, formerly occupied by a water feature disrupted when a beaver built his home underneath.

“He was here first,” White laughed. “We are letting him have it.” The outdoor remodel will create a nature play area and educational space.

White often works the desk on the weekends to get a first-hand understanding of who visits. At least 20% tell her they had no idea the place was here until learning about it from a friend or calendar listing. Others attended a wedding or other event at TRAC and wanted to come back to see the place in the daylight.

The challenges to attracting more visitors are complicated. Some people are happy to stay on their neighborhood trails, not realizing the richer experience TRAC provides or thinking it’s too far away. Or they are looking for an experience that also offers cute coffee shops and unique shopping, amenities uncommon in this part of Dallas.

Additionally, the long-held but outdated fears about the southern half of the city being more dangerous than the north remain an obstacle. One legitimate concern is the racetrack conditions on Great Trinity Forest Way, part of the Loop 12 network originally built as a highway. Especially on the stretch near the TRAC entrance, which has no traffic light, high speeds are common and deadly accidents ensue.

COVID taught White to keep her hands off things she can’t control, so she and her team focus on devising good ideas and seeing what works: The monthly “Science Sunday” with educator Sofia Lopez. A “Jeo-Birdy” game board, designed to mimic the game show. The latest social media offerings include a TRAC TikTok channel that includes new staffer Nathan May’s popular Luna Moth video .

Jake Poinsett, who joined as education manager several weeks before the pandemic set in, and Keegan Hassett, who grew up on a farm less than 2 miles from the notorious Deepwoods dump, are determined to match each visitor with just the right experience.

The seven-year veteran of the team, educator Marcus Cole, told me a better job may not exist than this one because it allows him to engage with nature and the community. “It’s a hidden gem that’s great for mental health,” he said. “We’re all about birds, and what’s good for birds is typically good for humans.”

Among Cole’s responsibilities is presenting TRAC’s environmental justice narrative to visitors and in off-site settings. “That history is what got us to this place,” he said. “An environmental liability has become an environmental asset.”

Sharon Grigsby . As the DMN City Columnist and a fourth-generation Texan, I'm focused on all things Dallas. I made what I expected to be a short career stopover here in 1980 and, this many years later, I'm still working to make Dallas a better city for all its residents. You'll also find me writing about mental health care and substance abuse issues.

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