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Gladys Porter Zoo is a zoological and botanical park located in Brownsville, Texas, United States. The zoo officially opened on September 3, 1971, and currently averages over 424,000 visitors annually. Situated on 31 acres (13 ha), the zoo houses about 400 animal species (including 47 endangered species) and over 250 tropical and neo-tropical species and subspecies. It is the first zoo to have successfully bred the endangered Jentink's duiker (although none are currently in captivity in the US). It is also the birthplace of Harambe, the gorilla.To visit Gladys Porter Zoo on your trip to Brownsville, use our Brownsville travel itinerary planner.
The zoo is named after Gladys Porter, the daughter of Earl C. Sams, former president of J. C. Penney. Porter, a wildlife enthusiast, helped to plan and stock the zoo, which was entirely funded by the Earl C. Sams Foundation. After its opening, the zoo was given to the city of Brownsville.
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Gladys Porter Zoo reviews
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Who knew there was a zoo this good in a rather remote location. Lots of animals in a great setting. The only problem was the fact that it was quite cold when we went, so many of the animals were...
Who knew there was a zoo this good in a rather remote location. Lots of animals in a great setting. The only problem was the fact that it was quite cold when we went, so many of the animals were... more »
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Well laid out, lots of shade. The write ups could have been more in depth. Warning about the food at the concession stand - if you're on a salt reduced diet, don't eat there.
Well laid out, lots of shade. The write ups could have been more in depth. Warning about the food at the concession stand - if you're on a salt reduced diet, don't eat there. more »
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This place has plenty of animals and a few more new additions coming soon!, the petting zoo wasn't open, but I'm sure by the beginning of next year it will be up and running again. This place also has a children's playground, available for kids 4 years and older. You can expect to spend at least 3 hours here, including time for the concessions, and a quick 5-10 minute sit down. It's a very decent sized zoo, my son and wife loved it.
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I was impressed for being a small zoo they did a great job in maintaining the place. The giraffes were unavailable since it was cold and rainy. The gift shop had some really nice gifts at a decent price.
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