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Keep Cool at the Houston Zoo in Hot Weather
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When you visit our new African Forest exhibit, cool off in the air-conditioned chimp viewing building.
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Multiple misting fans- and four new misting stations - can be found in many spots around the zoo to provide a refreshing cool breeze.
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Take a ride in the shade on the Wildlife Carousel, and guests waving from the sidelines can rest in the shade as well.
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In the Carnivores area of the zoo, go underground to cool off in the Lion Exhibit tunnel. There are also shaded viewing areas for lions, tigers and grizzly bears.
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Kids can play in the shade at the Children's Zoo playground, and bring their found items to trade in the air-conditioned Naturally Wild Swap Shop The Butterfly Stage in the Children's Zoo allows guests to enjoy a show in the shade.
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Wortham World of Primates is set in a forest of gigantic old oak trees that shade the walkways. Primate viewing also includes several covered pavilions with benches.
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Kipp Aquarium will help you cool off while you view an octopus from the chilly waters of the pacific ocean, giant stingrays or our new white-spotted jellyfish.
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The Red Panda Tunnel outside of Natural Encounters is a shady place to watch this very cool endangered animal.
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In the Natural Encounters building, visit clear pools with four-eyed fish, snake-necked turtles and a cascading waterfall. At the River's Edge you may see otters swimming or taking a nap in a hollow log. Crawl through a clear tunnel beneath Amazon piranha. Don't miss the dark cave that's home to a colony of asian fruit bats.
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The Reptile and Amphibian Building is home to some of the most dangerous snake species in the world such as the Gaboon viper and Black mamba. The largest exhibit in the center of the room is home to Blanco, one of only fourteen white alligators in existence.
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Cool off in the Tropical Bird House, where you can walk inside an aviary to see and hear many exotic birds from around the world.
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The Reflection Pool is a shady spot to watch koi fish splash and enjoy a picnic lunch. You may bring a cooler with you or choose from a variety of treats at our concessions.
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The Sea Lion Habitat has shaded viewing areas - get there early if you'd like a seat for the show.
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Enjoy a fresh salad, cool drink, and choose from a variety of lunch items and rest in air-conditioned comfort at Macaw Cafe or the new Twiga Terrace in the African Forest.
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Before you depart, shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at the gift shops in African Forest and near the front entrance.
- You can bring bottles of ice water with you to sip on while you tour the zoo - outside food and drinks are permitted. Please, no glass bottles or drinking straws.
We hope you enjoy your cool trip to the zoo!
