5 Essential Tips for a Perfect Family Day at El Paso Zoo

two children at el paso zoo looking at tiger exibit
A family photo at the zoo, featuring a smiling woman wearing sunglasses, a sweatshirt, and jeans, standing in front of a colorful mural with animal images. She is flanked by two standing children; one holds a map and the other is smiling at the camera. A third child is in a stroller, wearing a blue jacket and looking at the camera. They're all enjoying a sunny day out.

Hey, Winefam it’s your Mom Tip Tuesday where you don’t have to be a mom to benefit but you end up learning something new. By the way don’t forget to follow the blog on all platforms and stay tuned for more tips each week; if you missed last week read it here. The days are getting longer, the weather has us outside more than usual, and you’re finally planning a trip to the zoo. Here are five things you MUST know before you go. When planning a visit to the El Paso Zoo with kids, keeping a few essential tips in mind can ensure you have an enjoyable and stress-free experience. So let’s get on with it, here are the top five things to remember before going to the zoo:

Pricey but delicious

Plan Your Meals Wisely: While the food at the zoo is delicious, it can be quite expensive for a family. For a family of five, the cost might exceed $60 for lunch. To manage your budget better, consider packing snacks or a light lunch. Alternatively, check if there are any nearby places to eat outside the zoo if re-entry is allowed, which might offer more variety or value for money. There are so many food stands as well with small snacks and might I also add the beer selection was delicious I recommend the pineapple cider its light and fruity taste is perfect for the warmer weather. My littles loved the cotton candy it was light and didn’t have that weird aftertaste some cotton candy’s do.

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Stroller Strategy: Bringing a lightweight stroller or wagon is a great idea for young kids, as there’s a lot of walking involved. However, since strollers are not allowed in areas with stadium seating, such as during shows, avoid leaving valuables in them. Opt for a crossbody bag or a backpack to keep your essentials secure and hands-free. This setup allows you to enjoy the exhibits worry-free, knowing your valuables are safe with you.

Penny for your Thoughts: For a unique and affordable keepsake, bring two quarters and a penny to make a pressed penny souvenir for only fifty-one cents. The machine is located at the front of the park near the train station and is a fun, quick activity that leaves you with a personalized memento of your day. If you prefer the gift shop we ended up getting the kids a two geodes at nine dollar a piece as a souvenir. Cracking them open later can be a fun and educational activity, revealing sparkling crystals inside—a tangible and exciting memory of your zoo visit.

Be Sun-Smart and Comfortable: Even though the park offers plenty of shade, it’s important to pack sunscreen to protect against sunburn. Read here for my favorites. Comfort is key for a day of exploration, so wear good walking shoes. Boots or uncomfortable footwear can become painful after several hours of walking, as I found out by hour three in my Tecovas, definitely wear sneakers.

Two young children, one with a large pink bow in her hair, stand attentively watching a zoo presentation. A zookeeper holds a large, colorful bird perched on a wooden stand, while another staff member looks on. The setting is outdoors with trees and a gazebo-like structure in the background, indicative of an educational moment at a zoo.

Timing Your Visit:
Early arrival at the zoo not only helps you beat the crowds but also ensures you see the animals when they’re most active. Many animals take their naps in the afternoon, which could be your cue for a lunch break or a quieter moment to enjoy less crowded exhibits. The zoo’s schedule is packed with shows and interactive sessions throughout the day—highlights include the sea lion performance and hands-on experiences near the penguin and giraffe exhibits, where children can engage in crafts and learn about wildlife firsthand.

Remembering these five tips will help ensure that your visit to the El Paso Zoo is not only enjoyable but also comfortable and memorable for the whole family. It’s so easy to spend the whole day there so grab a map and pick out your favorite things to see. You won’t regret visiting the zoo this year. The combination of planning for meals, being strategic about stroller use, preparing for sun exposure and walking, as well as timing your visit, can make a big difference in your overall experience. What are your tips for going to the zoo? I saw so many couples on dates there too. Let me know if these tips help, and as always Winefam hoping your wine or your coffee is stronger than your kids.

xoxo,
Amber-Nicole

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Meet the face behind CarbsNCabernet.com –Amber a devoted mom, wife, wine enthusiast, and advocate for balancing life’s pleasures with practicality. With a passion for sharing her journey through motherhood, she offers a unique blend of honest insights, humor, and relatable experiences. From navigating the chaos of parenting to savoring the simple joys of a good glass of cabernet, she believes in embracing both the mess and the magic of everyday life. Her blog is a haven for moms seeking solidarity, inspiration, and a reminder to enjoy the little things, one carb and one sip at a time. Join her as she uncovers the beauty in imperfection and the richness of daily living – all with a touch of wit and a lot of heart.

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