We’re excited to introduce something brand new to our Zoo community: ZooBand. For the first time in San Antonio Zoo history, Members can enjoy a wearable experience designed to make your visits smoother, faster, and more fun from the moment you arrive.

ZooBand is free for all San Antonio Zoo Members, bringing key membership features and perks right to your wrist. From quick entry to easy payments and special Member-only bonuses, ZooBand helps you spend less time juggling your phone or wallet and more time enjoying the animals and experiences you love.

Whether you visit every week or just a few times a year, ZooBand is an exciting upgrade that changes how you move through the park.

What Is ZooBand?

ZooBand is a wearable wristband that connects directly to your Zoo Membership. Once activated, it becomes your all-in-one tool for navigating your day at the Zoo without constantly pulling out your phone or wallet.

This is the first wearable program of its kind at San Antonio Zoo, and it represents a big step forward in how we enhance the Member experience. Designed with convenience in mind, ZooBand fits naturally into a day full of discovery while you explore habitats, grab snacks, shop for souvenirs, and participate in special encounters.

What You Can Do with ZooBand

ZooBand simplifies your Zoo visit in several ways, starting right at the front gate:

• Faster entry: Your Zoo Membership is stored directly on your band. Just scan and go—no more searching through emails or logging into apps.

• Easy payments: Use ZooBand to pay for food, beverages, souvenirs, and more at participating locations throughout the Zoo.

• Streamlined Animal Encounters: Purchase and redeem experiences using your band for a simpler, stress-free process.

• Member-only perks and offers: ZooBand unlocks special bonuses designed to reward Members and add even more value all year long.

A First in Zoo History

ZooBand is a major milestone for San Antonio Zoo. In its 111-year history, the Zoo has never offered anything like this.

This launch marks a new chapter in how we connect with Members and improve the overall Zoo experience. By removing small hassles, like entry checks, checkout lines, and tracking purchases, ZooBand helps you spend more of your day enjoying what matters most: the animals, exhibits, and unforgettable moments.

It also sets the stage for future enhancements, giving Members a chance to be part of something exciting from the very beginning.

ZooBand Launches on Member Appreciation Day

ZooBand officially launches on Saturday, December 20, during Member Appreciation Day—a celebration of the people who support the Zoo year-round, and the perfect time to introduce something brand new.

Starting that day, all San Antonio Zoo Members are invited to receive their ZooBand for free. You can pick it up, activate it, and start using it during your visit.

Member Appreciation Day is already a great reason to come to the Zoo—and ZooBand adds an extra layer of excitement.

How to Get Your Free ZooBand

Getting your ZooBand is easy. Just make sure you complete one important step before you arrive:

Step 1: Process your membership

You must fully process your Membership and obtain your Membership Number before you create a ZooBand account.

Step 2: Pick up your ZooBand at the Zoo

Once your membership is processed, visit the Zoo and stop by Guest Services to pick up your ZooBand.

ZooBands will be available for pickup and activation at:

• Guest Services (just inside the park entrance), or

• Hippo Viewing

Zoo staff will help activate your band so you’re ready to use it right away.

A Limited-Time Bonus for ZooBand Signups

To celebrate the launch, Members who sign up for ZooBand will receive a free Zootennial Carousel ride.

It’s a fun extra that adds a little magic to your visit. This bonus is available for a limited time, so it’s a great reason to process your membership and pick up your ZooBand as soon as you can.

ZooBand + Exploring Congo Falls

ZooBand is launching at an exciting time for the Zoo, especially with the opening of Congo Falls, our immersive two-acre habitat that has quickly become a favorite for Members and guests.

As you explore Congo Falls, ZooBand unlocks interactive moments along the way. One highlight is a large screen where guests can use a drawing pad to create their own artwork, which is instantly transformed into playful gorilla art on display. It’s a hands-on experience that blends creativity, technology, and wildlife education in a way that’s fun for all ages.

From grabbing food nearby to purchasing Animal Encounters, ZooBand helps you explore new areas like Congo Falls without slowing down. You’re free to discover, learn, and enjoy every moment.

As the Zoo continues to grow and introduce new experiences, ZooBand will help connect it all in a way that feels seamless and intuitive.

Why ZooBand Makes Membership Even Better

Zoo Membership has always delivered great value. ZooBand makes those benefits easier to access and enjoy.

• Families will love having fewer things to manage during a busy Zoo day.

• Frequent visitors will appreciate quicker entry and smoother purchases.

• Everyone benefits from a more connected, streamlined experience.

ZooBand also strengthens the connection between Members and the Zoo, making each visit feel more personal, rewarding, and fun.

Ready to Level Up Your Zoo Experience?

If you’re already a Zoo Member, process your membership in the Member Portal and pick up your free ZooBand starting December 20.

If you’re thinking about becoming a Member, now is a great time to join. Membership gives you year-round access, exclusive perks, and now the added convenience of ZooBand.

We can’t wait to see Members wearing ZooBand throughout the park and enjoying everything San Antonio Zoo has to offer in a whole new way.