A Venue Like No Other
- Up to 500 guests, based on final layout and logistics
- Indoor and outdoor space available
- Captivating wildlife & skyline views
- Customizable lighting
- Covered patio & adjacent courtyard
- Exclusive access to Greg Kowalski Family Courtyard
Only at The Ralston
The Ralston places your event alongside a living, breathing wonder, with intimate, direct views of gorillas in their naturalistic habitat. At the heart of it all is Mays Family Silverback Peak, a 70+ foot tower that redefines the San Antonio skyline and captures the imagination of every guest.
Versatile by Nature
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Celebrate your big day with breathtaking views, elegant indoor-outdoor spaces, and unforgettable moments surrounded by nature.
Weddings
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Gather for a refined midday event featuring customizable menus, flexible layouts, and inspiring views of the zoo’s naturalistic habitats.
Luncheons
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Host a stunning evening affair where modern sophistication meets the wild beauty of the zoo’s most iconic backdrops.
Galas
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Elevate your next meeting or multi-day event with state-of-the-art amenities, breakout flexibility, and immersive scenery that sparks creativity.
Conferences
Our Catering Partners
At The Ralston you can choose between our two exquisite catering partners. RK Group and SSA Group are the leading culinary experts. Each partner offers up creativity, excellence, and exemplary custom servers that are sure to compliment any event you can dream up!
San Antonio Zoo Catering delivers exclusive, in-house catering with bold flavors and seamless service. Locally inspired menus and expert coordination make every event unforgettable.
Catering to the best of the best in San Antonio since 1946, RK Group brings its culinary and service excellence to every table with creative cuisine options focusing on quality and presentation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Venue tours will be available by appointment starting August 2025. You can schedule a tour by contacting our Hospitality team at 210-591-1871.
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The Ralston offers self-parking and optional valet service. Valet is required for events with more than 200 guests and can be arranged through your site partner.
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The Ralston is available for events daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
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Yes, The Ralston offers a 20% discount for nonprofit organizations.
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Direct access is not currently available. Shuttle transportation must be arranged to travel between The Ralston and the Zoo.
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Open flames and sparklers are not permitted. However, small ceremonial tea lights are allowed as a safe alternative.
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No décor may be affixed to the walls using tape, nails, or adhesives. Additionally, balloons and confetti are not allowed in the venue.
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Yes, your rental time includes both setup and breakdown. If additional time is needed, it may be added for an extra fee depending on availability.
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The Ralston’s exclusive catering partners—SSA and The RK Group—each maintain their own preferred vendor list. Vendor discussions will take place during your contract review.
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There are no noise restrictions for indoor events. Outdoor events may be subject to local noise ordinances—please confirm specifics with your site partner.
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The Ralston welcomes service animals. Our security team will greet guests with service animals upon arrival, review any guidelines, and point out designated relief areas.
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Yes, Zoo experience add-ons are available. Your site partner can walk you through the options and any applicable discounts.
Located With Unbeatable Views of the San Antonio Zoo
834 E Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212