Cameron Park Zoo, Waco, TX

http://www.cameronparkzoo.com/

We love to visit this zoo in Waco.  Most recently, I chaperoned the 5th grade field trip to "The Waco Zoo".  It's fun for all ages.  In fact, the day we visited there were school groups ranging in age from Kindergarten to Senior Class Trips. 

I think one reason we like this zoo so much is because it's not HUGE like some of the zoos in bigger cities.  You can easily walk the shady loop in just a few hours and still see the Big 3 -- lions and tigers and bears. Oh my!  There's also elephants and giraffes. Plus my favorite ... the snake house!

And about half way around the loop, there is a great place to stop and take a break. This zoo has playground and splash pad for the kids. So make sure they wear swimsuits under their clothes so they can cool off in the summer heat!

And before you leave, stop in the gift shop to check out their cool tshirts.  My son, who is a Beatles fan just had to have this one . . .

There's also a snack bar by the entrance where we always stop for popsicles before we leave. Overall, this zoo is a great place to take the family the next time you're in or near Waco.