One of five largest in state; animals displayed in modern areas simulating natural habitat.
Discovery Center is a "zoo within a zoo," housing comparative habitat displays of invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals from the Southwestern U.S. and Africa.
The zoo is in Nelson Park, about 3 miles east of city on Texas 36 across from West Texas Fairgrounds. Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Thurs., 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.) Memorial Day through Labor day; Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Labor Day to Memorial Day. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.