BROWNSVILLE – From the modernization of essential water and wastewater infrastructure to the visionary investment in the Zoo’s Master Plan, the City of Brownsville has been an indispensable partner in the Gladys Porter Zoo’s forward momentum. As a heartfelt thank you for this steadfast support and the City's commitment to the Zoo’s comprehensive redevelopment, the Zoo is proud to host Brownsville Appreciation Weekend on May 8th, 9th, and 10th.

"The progress we are seeing today, including the revitalization of our existing habitats and the critical infrastructure grants that keep our gates open, is a direct result of our partnership with the City of Brownsville," says Zoo Director Dr. Patrick M. Burchfield. "This weekend, we invite the community to see how their support is improving the Gladys Porter Zoo."

During this exclusive three-day event, Brownsville residents are invited to explore the Zoo for a special discounted rate:

• Admission Price: $4.00 per person for both adults and children.
• Eligibility: Exclusive to residents of Brownsville.
• Requirements: Guests must present proof of residency, such as a driver's license or utility bill, at the gate; only one person per group is required to show proof.

Residents can experience the thrill of the Soaring Eagle Zipline, which served as the pivotal first step in the Zoo’s master plan and takes guests 120 feet into the air for a bird’s-eye view of the park. Visitors can also look forward to the upcoming grand opening of El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco Phase II in August 2026. In the meantime, guests can discover new additions like the guira cuckoo in the Tropical American aviary and a new reticulated python in the herpetarium. A number of newborn babies are currently on display for visitors to observe, such as black and white ruffed lemurs that are so adorable.

As an added celebration, the Zoo will host a Mother's Day themed Animal Play Day on Sunday, May 10th.

For those who cannot make it this weekend, another opportunity for regional discounts will be available later this fall. For more information, please contact the Marketing Department at (956) 546-7187 or visit www.gpz.org.