Zoos are roaring into the 21st century with a fresh philosophy and vision that make them extra appealing for visiting families. Long gone are the days when animals were displayed in cages like sideshow oddities. At the newest exhibits, creatures are given the royal treatment in elaborately recreated habitats that teach visitors about the world's ecosystems and their species. Now your family can watch zebras and cheetahs roaming across grassy plains, turtles swimming in rivers stocked with fish, and wolves running through thick forests. The Fort Worth Zoo is one that certainly entertains as it educates animal-lovers.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS

Not every black and white critter in Texas says "moo." At Penguin Island at the Fort Worth Zoo, 24 African penguins waddle and swim at indoor/outdoor viewing areas built to simulate the rocky coasts that these black-footed birds call home. You and your kids can watch penguins playing in the Texas sun or goofing off in their air-conditioned interior room. If all goes as planned, three pairs of African penguins will soon become lovebirds and produce offspring, adding to the numbers of this endangered species. Admission is $9.75 for adults, $7.25 for kids ages three to 12, and free for children under age three. For more information, call 817-759-7555.



Candyce H. Stapen is a frequent contributor to FAMILYFUN.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.