The Exotic Resort Zoo

About The Exotic Resort Zoo

Description

Y'all, let me tell you about one of Texas' hidden gems - The Exotic Resort Zoo. It's not your typical zoo experience, trust me! Picture this: a sprawling wildlife reserve where you can actually stay overnight in cozy woodsy cabins while exotic animals roam nearby. [Southwick's Zoo may have 850 exotic animals](https://kathleenodowd.wordpress.com/2017/04/25/mad-about-more-than-monkeys-education-conservationism-a-touch-of-anthropomorphism-at-southwicks/), but what makes this place special is how intimate and personal the experience feels. I've gotta say, spending time here feels like you're worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property strikes this perfect balance between being a wildlife sanctuary and a relaxing getaway spot. Oh, and did I mention there's a refreshing outdoor pool? Perfect for those scorching Texas summer days! The kiddos absolutely love the playground area, but the real magic happens during the included zoo tours where you'll get up close with the residents.

Key Features

• Private woodsy cabins scattered throughout the wildlife reserve • Complimentary guided zoo tours included with your stay • Sparkling outdoor swimming pool • Children's playground area • Interactive animal encounters and feeding opportunities • Educational programs and demonstrations • Peaceful natural setting • Family-friendly atmosphere • On-site gift shop • Picnic areas

Best Time to Visit

Speaking from experience, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are absolutely dreamy here. The temperatures are just right - not too hot, not too cold - which means both you and the animals will be more active and engaged. Plus, the natural scenery during these seasons is gorgeous! Summer months can get pretty toasty in Texas, but that's when the pool comes in extra handy. If you do visit during summer, try to schedule your zoo tours for early morning or late afternoon. Winter visits have their own charm too - fewer crowds and many animals are actually more active in cooler weather.

How to Get There

The Exotic Resort Zoo is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country. You'll definitely want to drive here since it's a bit off the beaten path (which honestly adds to its charm). If you're coming from Austin, it's roughly an hour's drive. From San Antonio, expect about two hours on the road. Just make sure you've got your GPS ready because once you get into Hill Country, cell service can be a bit spotty.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, here's the inside scoop on making the most of your visit. First off, book your cabin well in advance - this place can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Pack some closed-toe shoes because you'll be doing plenty of walking on natural terrain. Bring your camera! The animals here are pretty amazing, and you'll want to capture those moments. If you're staying overnight, consider packing some snacks and drinks since you're a bit away from restaurants. Morning tours tend to be best since the animals are more active then. Don't forget your swimsuits during warmer months - that pool is mighty inviting after a day of exploring! And here's a pro tip: bring cash for animal feed if you want to participate in feeding opportunities (trust me, it's worth it). Pack some bug spray and sunscreen - you're in Texas after all! And if you're visiting with kiddos, the playground is great, but they might also want to bring some of their own entertainment for downtime in the cabin. Remember, this isn't your typical polished zoo experience - it's more natural and rustic, which in my opinion, makes it way more special. You might see staff working on improvements or maintenance, but that's all part of keeping the place running for these amazing animals. The animals here aren't just exhibits - they're residents, and the staff treats them that way. It's really refreshing to see [a sanctuary that provides dignified refuge](https://rumblingsfrompaws.wordpress.com/tag/wildlife-sanctuary/) to these incredible creatures. Just remember to be respectful of their space and follow the guides' instructions during tours.

Description

Y’all, let me tell you about one of Texas’ hidden gems – The Exotic Resort Zoo. It’s not your typical zoo experience, trust me! Picture this: a sprawling wildlife reserve where you can actually stay overnight in cozy woodsy cabins while exotic animals roam nearby. [Southwick’s Zoo may have 850 exotic animals](https://kathleenodowd.wordpress.com/2017/04/25/mad-about-more-than-monkeys-education-conservationism-a-touch-of-anthropomorphism-at-southwicks/), but what makes this place special is how intimate and personal the experience feels.

I’ve gotta say, spending time here feels like you’re worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property strikes this perfect balance between being a wildlife sanctuary and a relaxing getaway spot. Oh, and did I mention there’s a refreshing outdoor pool? Perfect for those scorching Texas summer days! The kiddos absolutely love the playground area, but the real magic happens during the included zoo tours where you’ll get up close with the residents.

Key Features

• Private woodsy cabins scattered throughout the wildlife reserve
• Complimentary guided zoo tours included with your stay
• Sparkling outdoor swimming pool
• Children’s playground area
• Interactive animal encounters and feeding opportunities
• Educational programs and demonstrations
• Peaceful natural setting
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• On-site gift shop
• Picnic areas

Best Time to Visit

Speaking from experience, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are absolutely dreamy here. The temperatures are just right – not too hot, not too cold – which means both you and the animals will be more active and engaged. Plus, the natural scenery during these seasons is gorgeous!

Summer months can get pretty toasty in Texas, but that’s when the pool comes in extra handy. If you do visit during summer, try to schedule your zoo tours for early morning or late afternoon. Winter visits have their own charm too – fewer crowds and many animals are actually more active in cooler weather.

How to Get There

The Exotic Resort Zoo is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country. You’ll definitely want to drive here since it’s a bit off the beaten path (which honestly adds to its charm). If you’re coming from Austin, it’s roughly an hour’s drive. From San Antonio, expect about two hours on the road. Just make sure you’ve got your GPS ready because once you get into Hill Country, cell service can be a bit spotty.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, here’s the inside scoop on making the most of your visit. First off, book your cabin well in advance – this place can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Pack some closed-toe shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on natural terrain.

Bring your camera! The animals here are pretty amazing, and you’ll want to capture those moments. If you’re staying overnight, consider packing some snacks and drinks since you’re a bit away from restaurants. Morning tours tend to be best since the animals are more active then.

Don’t forget your swimsuits during warmer months – that pool is mighty inviting after a day of exploring! And here’s a pro tip: bring cash for animal feed if you want to participate in feeding opportunities (trust me, it’s worth it).

Pack some bug spray and sunscreen – you’re in Texas after all! And if you’re visiting with kiddos, the playground is great, but they might also want to bring some of their own entertainment for downtime in the cabin.

Remember, this isn’t your typical polished zoo experience – it’s more natural and rustic, which in my opinion, makes it way more special. You might see staff working on improvements or maintenance, but that’s all part of keeping the place running for these amazing animals.

The animals here aren’t just exhibits – they’re residents, and the staff treats them that way. It’s really refreshing to see [a sanctuary that provides dignified refuge](https://rumblingsfrompaws.wordpress.com/tag/wildlife-sanctuary/) to these incredible creatures. Just remember to be respectful of their space and follow the guides’ instructions during tours.

Location

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