ZooNorth

ZooNorth is the northern section of the Dallas Zoo, and it houses one of the zoo's most compelling exhibits — the Gorilla Conservation Research Center, one of the largest gorilla habitats in the country. Watching the gorilla family from the viewing areas is a genuinely emotional experience: you'll observe complex social behaviors, playful young gorillas, and the sheer physical presence of silverbacks up close through reinforced glass.

For families, this section of the zoo often feels more manageable than the busy main entrance areas — it's slightly less trafficked on busy weekend days, and the sightlines in the gorilla habitat mean most kids can see well even in a moderate crowd. Morning visits are best when the gorillas are active; afternoon Texas heat sends them to the shade and they become much harder to spot.

Beyond the gorillas, ZooNorth includes additional primate habitats, bird species, and connecting trails that loop through some of the zoo's more wooded terrain.

The section also lends its name to one of Dallas's best family fall events: ZooNorth (the Halloween Experience). Every October, this area of the zoo transforms with seasonal decorations, trick-or-treating stations, themed animal encounters, and family-friendly Halloween activities. It's a magical evening event for kids who love the zoo AND Halloween — but tickets sell out fast.

Zoo members get priority and discounts; buy well in advance regardless.

For families visiting the Dallas Zoo, ZooNorth and the Giants of the Savanna are the two sections to prioritize. Between the gorillas and the African savanna mammals, you'll have covered the zoo's best material and given kids memories that stick.

Plan two to three hours for this section alone if you want to do it justice.