The Houston Zoo invites families to celebrate the spooky season with its beloved, month-long Zoo Boo event, running from September 26 through October 31. Little ghouls and goblins are encouraged to dress in their best costumes and enjoy a host of autumn-themed activities perfect for all ages.

Guests can stroll through a 15-foot-tall fall foliage arch, explore the eerie Ghost Town near the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo, and wander beneath a glowing pumpkin tunnel made from hundreds of pumpkin lanterns.

New this year, the Galápagos Islands exhibit gets a ghostly makeover using state-of-the-art projection mapping technology, bringing a spooky animated story to life on the rocks and landscapes.

Fan favorites return, including the dazzling Glowing Pumpkins by the Reptile and Amphibian House and the playful Talking Pumpkins near Flamingo Terrace and the Spooky Forest.

 Zoo Boo Extended Hours
On select nights, guests can enjoy the festivities after dark during Zoo Boo Extended Hours, when the zoo stays open until 9:30 p.m. (last entry at 8:00 p.m.).

Throughout October, the animals join in the fun with fall-themed enrichment—from pumpkins to cinnamon-scented puzzles—helping keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Admission
Zoo Boo activities and Extended Hours are included with general admission and are free for Zoo members. Advance online reservations are required for non-members.

Getting There
Free parking is available in Hermann Park, with additional paid garages nearby. Guests are encouraged to plan ahead or use rideshare/METRORail options.

Recycle & Save Wildlife
Guests can help save gorillas by recycling old handheld devices at the Zoo’s designated drop-off box. Proceeds from memberships and admissions help support this conservation effort.