Lone Star, The Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo offers deeply discounted Zoo admission tickets to Texans currently enrolled in the Lone Star program, which covers SNAP & WIC benefit recipients.

How Much is Zoo Admission with Lone Star?

For just $9 per ticket (child and adult), guests who currently receive Lone Star benefits (SNAP and WIC benefit recipients) may purchase up to two adult and three child tickets at the Lone Star discount rate. Other members of your group will need to purchase a ticket at regular admission price. Ticket reservations are required online. Tickets will not be sold on-site.

Reserve Tickets

Note: Entry is only allowed on the selected date of your ticket purchase. Ticket holders can enter any time after your ticket’s listed arrival time. You are welcome to enjoy the Zoo until we close at 6:00 p.m. Last entry is at 5:00 p.m.

Are There Any Restrictions?

Tickets must be reserved online.
All party members, including the primary Lone Star benefit recipient, must be present.
Guests must present their Lone Star card or phone app at the gate for verification.
This benefit includes only daytime admission to the Zoo.
Not included: Stroller/wheelchair/scooter rental, food or drink, or gift shop purchases.

Questions and Answers About Lone Star

How often can I come to the Zoo?

You can visit once per day and come back on other days; there is no limit to the number of times in a year you can visit.

Can I come on any day of the year?

Any day the Zoo is open, you are welcome to use your Lone Star benefit. (You cannot use it for Zoo Lights however.)

Can I apply it towards a membership?

No, the benefit is just for ticketed general admission.

How much money am I saving?

At the deeply discounted Lone Star rate, you only pay a total of $45 plus tax.

Can I bring my Mom/Dad/cousin/friend?

You can only purchase up to two adult and three child tickets at the Lone Star discount rate. Other members of your group will need to purchase a ticket at regular price online.

We have four or five kids in our family. Can they all get in?

You can purchase up to two adult and three child tickets at the Lone Star discount rate online. Other children will need a ticket at regular price.

We have the entire family on the card, but it's just the two of us who want to come to the Zoo. Is that OK?

Yes, present the Lone Star card with your name on it, and you can purchase two tickets.

Can I borrow my Mom's/Dad's/cousin's/friend's Lone Star card?

No, you must use your Lone Star card for entry.

Can I show my Lone Star app on my phone instead of my card?

Yes, we can use the app to verify benefits.

Can I use my food stamp benefits from another state?

No, this discount is set up for the Texas Lone Star or WIC benefit programs.

Can I get the discount with my Medicaid benefit letter/card?

No, this discount is set up for the Texas Lone Star or WIC benefit programs.

Do I need my letter?

Years ago you needed to bring your letter with you. We simplified the process; all you need now is your Lone Star Card or the app on your phone.

What is a Lone Star Card?

Information about the Lone Star card can be found on the Texas Health and Human Services website. From their website: “If you are accepted into the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and/or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) program, you will receive a Lone Star Card from your local Health and Human Services Commission.”