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5 stars 4 stars 3 stars 2 stars 1 star 0.00/5 - (0 Votes) Colm Local tour guide "Make sure to visit the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch during the weekday mornings when it's less crowded; this way you have a better chance of seeing the animals when they're most active and have closer encounters. Don't miss the giraffe feeding area – it's a hit with both kids and adults, and the giraffes are especially friendly then!"

What is Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch?

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is an African Safari, Texas-Style adventure that you wouldn't expect in the rolling hills just outside San Antonio. It's a unique place where you can drive through hundreds of acres of picturesque landscapes and encounter over 500 animals representing over 40 species. As I love to tell first-timers, it's not just a drive-thru animal park; it's an opportunity to get up-close and personal with some of nature's most fascinating creatures—all from the comfort of your vehicle.

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Here, you can see a wide array of wildlife from around the world, roaming freely as they do in the wild, which makes for an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Get your cameras ready! You might just capture an elegant giraffe leaning down to peer into your window or a herd of zebras trotting by. It's a chance to immerse yourself in a wildlife adventure without the need for a passport.

History of Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Opening its gates back in 1984, the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch has evolved from a small, family-owned farm with a passion for preserving and showcasing wildlife to a full-fledged safari park that has become a much-loved destination for locals and visitors alike. The name itself stems from a natural limestone bridge on the property, which turned out to be a fortuitous site for connecting people with nature.

Over the years, they've continuously expanded the grounds and the number of species that call the ranch home. Did you know that this place has also participated in conservation efforts, particularly with species that are threatened in their natural habitats? This commitment to wildlife is a core part of their ethos, ensuring that every visit contributes to a larger cause.

Why is Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Important?

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch serves an incredibly important role, both as an educational resource and as a conservation center. It introduces visitors to species they may never have the chance to see otherwise, highlighting the importance of wildlife preservation around the globe.

For local ecosystems, the ranch also provides a sanctuary for various species that thrive under its care. It's a living classroom, showcasing the behaviors and interactions of different animals—encouraging understanding and appreciation, and kindling a spirit of conservation in those who roll through its terrain.

Things to Do & See at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

The main event, of course, is the road safari, where visitors can slowly wind their way through the various habitats. It's an interactive affair; you can purchase animal feed at the entrance and experience the joy of feeding a curious llama or a gentle bison that approaches your vehicle. Just be prepared—those close encounters might include a slobbery hello from a friendly ostrich!

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Don't miss the Walk-A-Bout area, where getting out of your car is encouraged. Stroll along and enjoy giraffe feeding, the petting barnyard, and the chance to observe some critters that prefer a more 'pedestrian-friendly' setting. There's also the Safari Camp Grill for a bite to eat, and the Safari Trading Post, where unique souvenirs await to commemorate your safari adventure.

Educational programs and seasonal events are sprinkled throughout the year, so there's always something new to learn or experience at the ranch. These programs are not just enjoyable—they're bred from a deep understanding of animal behaviors and environmental stewardship, which only enriches the visitor experience.

Frequently asked questions

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is an African Safari, Texas-Style wildlife park in San Antonio where visitors can see and feed a variety of native and exotic animals from their cars.

Visitors to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch can see and feed a range of animals including giraffes, zebras, rhinos, lemurs, peacocks, and various species of deer and antelope among others.

Yes, the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is open year-round, but hours and days of operation may vary by season, so it's recommended to check their website or call ahead before planning your visit.

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers visitors the chance to experience a drive-thru safari where they can feed animals from their vehicles. They may also have seasonal events or educational programs available.

Yes, visitors can purchase feed at the ranch to give to certain animals during their drive-thru safari experience. However, there are guidelines and restrictions on feeding to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals.

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Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch in San Antonio

Your globe-spanning wildlife safari in Texas starts behind the wheel of your very own car. With a handy guidebook that will help you identify all the ranch’s animals, you’ll cruise along the scenic winding roads spotting American bison,  African crowned cranes, and much more. Don’t drive too fast as some of these animals will walk right up to your vehicle, an ideal time to unroll your window and toss out with a handful of food or strike a pose for a one-of-a-kind selfie. Although any time of the year is good to visit, spring offers the best chance to see young zebras, llamas, antelopes, and other animals.

Although your self-guided wildlife safari could fill up most of your day, it is by no means the only thing to do at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Get face-to-face with a towering giraffe, watch energetic ring-tailed lemurs play, and snap some photos at the Walk-A-Bout part of the ranch. 

Spend enough time exploring the ranch and you’ll likely work up an appetite as big as the Serengeti, so herd your flock on over to the Safari Camp Grill. The eatery’s menu features fare both light and robust, as well as a dessert selection that includes Zebra a la Mode. Speaking of dessert, you can also stop by the Safari Sweet Spot for some homemade fudge or a cold beverage. Order whatever your taste buds crave, then sit on the covered patio and watch the giraffes meander by. Think you’re done yet? Not a chance! After all, what would a visit to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch be without a souvenir? Pay a visit to the Safari Trading Post for a unique memento, such as a t-shirt, cup, silver giraffe pendant, or even an ostrich egg.

Embark on an African Safari, Texas Style right here in Texas, and enjoy a remarkable day out with the whole family, at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch.

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Take a Day Trip Safari Adventure to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

January 8, 2018 by Brittany Ballard Leave a Comment

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is about an hour south of Austin and features an African safari, Texas-style

Whether you’re a giraffe lover or just an animal lover in general, I have the day trip adventure for you to put on your calendar next. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is just an hour south of Austin on the outskirts of San Antonio. The ranch is a fun twist on traditional animal-viewing experiences and features a Texas-style African safari.

What Is Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch?

Get up close and personal on your safari as resident animals roam the property, straight up to your vehicle

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch was created in 1984, after the family owners visited similar parks in the northeast and decided they wanted to add diversity to the area around Natural Bridge Caverns . The ranch originally spanned 200 acres, but has grown to cover a whopping 450 acres. It’s the longest running and most visited safari in Texas.

The ranch is inhabited by over 500 animals in a “home away from home.” More than 40 species from all over the world are represented, including native, exotic, and endangered wildlife. Some of the beautiful animals you’ll see are giraffes, rhinos, zebras, lemurs, wildebeests, and ostriches.

The main attraction at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is its Texas-style African safari, which spans six miles of trail throughout the property. The fun part of this adventure? You experience it all from the comfort of your car. Animals are free-roaming throughout the drive and come up to your vehicle to get food.

What Can You Expect When You Visit?

There are over 500 animals at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, most of which you can feed straight from your car as you drive through the safari

Buckle up because you’re in for the ride of your life. The fun starts before you even get to the admissions booth. Just beyond the entrance lies a giraffe enclosure and barn. The newest star and addition to the family, darling Faith, is often standing with her mama at the front to greet visitors. While you’re waiting in line, you can just stare at them in awe. I know I did!

Once you get to the admissions booth, you’ll get a bag of feed for the car (with the option to buy more) and a safari map. From there, you can choose between a few options: start by checking out the petting zoo and Lemur Island, visit with the giraffes at the front, or head straight onto the adventurous safari.

If you don’t stop to walk along the giraffe barns and enclosure, I recommend beginning by driving straight to the safari. The drive can take from an hour to two hours, depending on how long you linger with the animals. Cars will be lined up on the side of the road for picture-taking and feeding the visiting wildebeests, zebras, and other animal friends. If you’ve finished at your stop, you are free to drive around those who are still parked. Just be careful to steer clear of anyone else on the road–be it vehicle or animal.

Check out Lemur Island before leaving and feed some of the koi fish in the pond surrounding them.

If you decide to turn into Tower Creek, about halfway through the main path, you’ll get to see another gorgeous herd of giraffes (called a tower), along with ostriches and other fun animals. There’s also a Sweet Stop and restrooms, so this is the perfect place for a quick break before you head over to the zebras and rhinos.

At the end of the safari, you can stop back at the base camp for more fun. There’s a petting barnyard with some lively goats. If you have extra feed after your drive through the safari, use it here and give your kiddos one more chance to get up close and personal with the animals. Lemur Island is in the middle of a koi fish feeding pond, and there are a few more animal enclosures to see while you’re in the area.

If you’re feeling a little munchy after the safari, stop by the park’s Safari Camp Grill to grab some grub and fuel up. You’ll find a range of items on the menu, from pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, to personal pizzas, to burgers.

Giraffe Conservation Efforts at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

New addition to the giraffe family at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, baby Faith, and her mother. NBWR has a successful giraffe breeding program and Faith is their 32nd giraffe!

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is proud of its successful giraffe breeding program, which recently welcomed its 32nd baby giraffe, Faith, on Nov. 9, 2017. Faith is the third generation of giraffes born on the property. The park is also home to a rare pair of giraffe twins born in 2013, only the ninth known living set in the world.

“Forty percent of all giraffe subspecies have been lost in the last 30 years,” says Tiffany Soechting, resident animal specialist at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. She hand-reared Buddy, the male giraffe twin. The inseparable bond that was created became the driving force for her being a voice for giraffes.

On World Giraffe Day, June 21, Soechting teamed up with fellow giraffe conservationists Ashley Davison, Fred Bercovitch, and Catherine Land to establish Save the Giraffes , a nonprofit organization dedicated to guaranteeing the protection and preservation of giraffes in their natural habitat. The organization has been able to give money to three different projects since its creation: Chimpembele, GPS Collaring, and Project Giraffe.

Between its fun, unique safari and dedication to preserving endangered species, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is an all-around great experience. And if you decide that one time through the safari isn’t enough, you don’t have to worry about paying to go through again. Visitors can enjoy the adventure as many times as they like before the park closes for the day.

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, San Antonio, TX – Website

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Top 12 Must See Drive Through Safaris in Texas

Note: This post may contain affiliate links! Check our disclaimer if you need more info!

Looking for a drive through safari in Texas? Or want to know all the dive through safaris in Texas?

This might come as a surprise but you can experience an African safari right here in the great state of Texas!  Granted, very little tops seeing these majestic creatures in their homeland but if you’re looking for a Texan substitute, we’ve got a list of all the places you can find a drive through safari in Texas.

Looking for more Texas fun? Check out this list of the best amusement parks in Texas !

Before heading out on your adventure to explore drive through safaris in Texas, please call to verify operating hours, animal availability, and all the other fun details!

Drive Through Safaris in Texas

Natural bridge wildlife ranch , san antonio.

Explore 450 acres of Texas Hill Country during this 1.5 hour Texas drive through safari featuring animals from all over the world.  Each car is provided a bag of animal feed with the cost of admission.  The animals in the ranch will come to your vehicle to eat and allow you an up close view of their beauty. You will see buffalos, zebras, and ostriches during your adventure.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (@naturalbridge.wildliferanch)

Visitors can even explore the wildlife ranch on foot. You can relax at the on-site cafe and visit the lemur habitat and the giraffe center. Finish off your day by stopping at the gift shop for a nice souvenir of your day.

Aggieland Safari , Bryan

Want to visit a “traditional” zoo and experience a drive through safari in Texas all at the same time?  Aggieland Safari in Bryan is the place to be!  Admission includes entrance to their 250+ acre drive-thru safari.  For a small additional fee, you can receive a bucket of feed to share with the over 100 animals that call Aggieland Safari home.  Experience a personal visit from each of the animals on the safari without ever having to leave your car.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aggieland Safari (@aggielandsafari)

But the fun at Aggieland Safari doesn’t stop there!  Admission to their Adventure Zoo is included as well.  This 20-acre area is meant to be explored on foot but still provides the opportunity for up-close experiences.  Want to feed a giraffe?  You can do that here.  Want to feed a tortoise?  You can do that too.  There’s also a bird aviary, a camel trek, a petting zoo, a kid-friendly playscape, a covered pavilion, and a gift shop!

Rocky Ridge Drive Thru Safari , Eustace

Enjoy a 1 hour drive through a safari right in the heart of Texas with a visit to Rocky Ridge Drive Thru Safari. View the park from the comfort of your own vehicle while traveling through this 200 acre wild animal refuge. The park features over 25 species of animals from all over the world.

With animals like buffalo, llamas, zebras, and even gazelles, this drive through safari in Texas is the perfect afternoon activity with family!

​ Franklin Drive Thru Safari , Franklin

Your entire family will have fun playing, feeding, and interacting with animals from across the globe at this drive through safari in Texas. Franklin Drive Thru Safari has over 100 acres filled with more than 1,000 animals. The petting zoo is amazing with new animals consistently being adopted. As you drive through the safari, you will see over fifty different species of animals meandering around the ranch. ​ Franklin Drive Thru Safari even has a ten-acre area for walking. There’s so much to do: visit baby giraffes, camels, anteaters, or kangaroos; purchase a cup of peanuts and make friends with the park monkeys;  take a private tour with the trained staff; visit the adorable baby room to play with exotic babies animals like coatimundis and lemurs, or explore in your car to feed camels and zebras right from your vehicle.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , Glen Rose

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is one of the largest drive through safaris in Texas.  The ranch consists of over 1,800 acres and features nearly fifty different species among the 1,100 animals on the property. You can spend hours driving through the park looking at all of the different animals.

But the fun doesn’t stop there!  You can go on a bike tour or even a murder mystery tour.  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center also has photo workshops, an on-site cafe, and overnight lodging [bunkhouses, anyone?].

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (@fossilrim)

In addition to being a drive through safari in Texas, they are also the biggest cheetah breeding facility in the world.  Between eighteen and twenty cubs are raised here every year.  Many endangered species, such as the scimitar-horned oryx, have also been reintroduced to the wild thanks to the efforts of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.  They are truly a drive through safari dedicated to the well-being and conservation of their animals!

Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari , Jacksonville

Visit this 5-mile drive through Texas safari to see Rupert the camel and Minnie the yak. Your two-hour drive includes a free feed bag, 300 acres, 35 species, and 700 animals. Make friends with capybaras, zebras, alpacas, bison, and more as they approach your vehicle.

There is also a fenced-off enclosure with six alligators you can feed. The variety of wildlife present at Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari is simply amazing.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cherokee Trace (@cherokeetrace)

There is an open habitat with two dozen endangered and exotic species and open savannahs. Drive along the different roads to spot an African longhorn cow, an Indian antelope walking across a lush field, or a mother and her calf grazing by the pond. You and your family will make great memories feeding, photographing, and observing these gorgeous creatures.

Grapeland Safari , Grapeland

The Grapeland Safari offers 59 acres and 25 different species. Grab a bucket of feed, drive through this Texas safari, and enjoy these amazing creatures. Your kids will love the petting zoo. They can visit numerous animals including zebras, axis deer, emus, and yaks. Bring your grill and spend some quality time together enjoying a cookout in the picnic area.

The guests of honor at the Grapeland Safari are their camels.  They feature two different types of camels: Dromedary and Bactrian.  Each has its unique features [one hump or two?] and both types at Grapeland Safari are a hit with visitors due to their incredibly friendly nature.

Exotic Resort Zoo , Johnson City

Instead of driving through this Texas safari, you can relax and enjoy all 127 acres from the comfort of a tram. You will learn about the forty different species and 600 animals including the kissing camel [named Gomar], ostriches, and blackbucks.

There are endangered and exotic animals too. You can feed the friendly animals right out of your own feed bucket. Your family will laugh as thirty or forty animals surround your tram hoping for tidbits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Exotic Resort Zoo, Inc. (@exoticresortzoo)

After your tour, visit the two petting zoos, the fishing pond where you can catch and release the fish or spend the night in a cabin and enjoy a roaring campfire. Visit the charming gift shop for a memorable souvenir, the private penned areas, and the caged enclosures. The tour guides will ensure you know a lot more about the animals when you leave than when you arrived.

Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari , Jefferson

The Lonesome Dove Drive-Thru Safari is home to over eighty animals. During your visit, you’ll enjoy wildebeests, camels, donkeys, red deer, bison, and more. The animals roam freely around the 65 acres. Follow the signs to drive to the exotic animals while seeing zebras and fallow deer along the way. 

Your entire family will enjoy the field filled with braying donkeys.  There’s a really good chance that the more social animals will approach your car to say hi!

If you want to get even closer to the animals, visit their on-site petting zoo.  Be sure to stop by their office to purchase buckets of food to share with the animals.  While you’re there, pick up a branded t-shirt and a souvenir to take home! You can take incredible photographs and visit the petting zoo.

North Texas Safari Park , Bonham

If you want to view exotic and endangered species from the comfort of your car, then North Texas Safari Park is the best drive through safari in Texas for you! Located about an hour north of Dallas, this drive through safari in Texas has all sorts of animals.

Experience more of the animals by partaking in their optional activities like feeding the giraffes, exploring their exhibit dedicated to Australian animals, petting animals in the petting zoo and more!

Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park , Jefferson

See exotic animals in their natural setting right in the middle of East Texas at this drive through safari.  Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park consists of 125 free-range safari acres. Drive the 3 mile loop in the comfort of your own vehicle while you see the animals naturally and up close.

With over 20 years of experience caring for exotic animals, this ranch works hard to ensure the wonders of the animal world are well preserved. Make sure you bring a camera to capture the incredible animals and bring home unforgettable souvenirs!

Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park , Evant

This drive through safari in Texas is a little different than others.  The entire safari is housed inside of a RV park. Their goal is to not only provide amazing animals for your viewing pleasure but to provide an overall family adventure – an economical one at that!

With over 23 animal species from 10 different countries, there are plenty of animals to see!

Have you visited a drive through safari in Texas?  Leave a comment below!

Montoya (Monty) Hudson is the founder and primary voice behind The Spring Break Family. She has created informative travel content for families since 2018 by providing practical advice, easy to follow itineraries, and addressing the real challenges of family travel. Since the creation of her family travel blog, she's inspired thousands of families to travel the world with their kids.

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Our 2024 annual gala is right around the corner! click below to register and reserve your table!

2024 annual gala, to see pictures from our 2023 gala, click below., protecting & preserving wildlife in south texas, welcome to the oldest safari club international chapter in the state of texas. sci of san antonio is committed to the preservation and appreciation of wildlife and nature for the outdoorsman and hunter alike. safari club international is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. these primary missions are supported through advocacy, membership, education, and representation. protecting hunters’ rights and promoting wildlife conservation is what we are all about, we’ve got some amazing things going on here at sci of san antonio.

See You In San Antonio

By W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of SCI and SCIF

Originally published in the June 2024 edition of Safari Times .

I look forward to meeting all members who will be able to attend the Grand Opening of SCI’s San Antonio offices on Saturday, June 29.

We’re set to have a great time as SCI turns the page to a new chapter in its storied history. As we announced earlier, SCI has moved its business operations from Tucson, Ariz., to San Antonio, Texas.

As SCI’s chief of staff, it has been a study in details as operations move to a spot more centrally located in the country and in one of the most hunter-friendly states in the USA.

Many staff members have moved from Tucson to San Antonio, while others continue to work either from SCI’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., or remotely from locations across North America and Europe.

SCI is global, and so are our operations. SCI has expanded more around the world in the past few years than it did in all the years before. SCI is THE most effective organization of hunters anywhere.

Nowhere could that have been more apparent than during Lobby Day in Washington, D.C., last month. SCI members and staff met with more than 100 Congressional offices on Lobby Day, telling the legislators what measures SCI supports and which ones we oppose.

We also had many successes, both among legislative bodies and in courts.

All of this emanates from SCI’s Hunters’ Embassy on Capitol Hill. Speaking of that, we also salute Armand and Mary Brachman, Dr. Gerald L. Warnock, Lee and Penny Anderson, the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, and a number of SCI Chapters in making substantial donations to help retire the debt on this critical building.

Advocacy is one of the six pillars upon which the future of hunting rests. The other five are Chapters, Event Services (Convention), Hunting, Membership and Conservation.

During the Board of Directors meeting last month in Washington, D.C., SCI signed a landmark memorandum of understanding with Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa that heralds even closer ties between the two groups as we forge forward together into the future.

This was on the heels of a joint venture SCI entered into earlier with Cinegética, the largest hunting show in Spain. And there will be more to talk about during the coming weeks and months as SCI continues to expand, both in size and influence.

Texas Trophy Hunters Association, now part of the SCI family, will hold three Extravaganza hunting shows in Houston, Fort Worth and San Antonio in August. There will be an all-new and even bigger Extravaganza in Dallas in January.

Meanwhile, I encourages everyone to vote this coming November. The future of hunting depends on right-thinking officials to be elected at all levels of government.

And make sure to plan now to attend the SCI Convention in Nashville Jan. 22-25, 2025. See you there.

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🦸 Things to do in San Antonio this weekend: Superhero Comic Con, Pride Resource Fair, camels at the Alamo

Rebecca Salinas , Digital Journalist

After some much-needed rain , San Antonio will be drying out and warming up this weekend for a slew of concerts, festivals and other events.

Here are some things to do in the Alamo City this weekend.

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What’s happening this weekend

• SUPERHERO COMIC CON : The star-studded event takes place Thursday through Sunday and features celebrities like Chris Pine and Diego Luna. Actor Jake Gyllenhaal was supposed to attend the event, but organizers announced late Wednesday that he will not be visiting the Alamo City due to COVID. The Superhero Comic Con is at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Halls. Click here for a list of celebrities attending .
• WATERMELON JUBILEE: The Stockdale Watermelon Jubilee is one of the oldest watermelon festivals in Texas. The festival includes live music, a carnival and a rodeo Friday through Sunday at Stockdale City Park, 111 Texas Hwy 123. Click here for more information.
• STONEWALL PEACH JAMBOREE: The Stonewall Peach JAMboree & Rodeo is returning for its 63rd year. The festival is on Friday and Saturday at the Stonewall Chamber Grounds, 250 Peach St. The festival includes live music, food and a rodeo. Read our story here .
• NOCHE DEL RIO: The summer series includes live cultural music and dancing at the Arneson River Theater. The shows take place every Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. through Aug. 3. Read our story here .
• WEEKEND AT MARKET SQUARE: The downtown destination has live music, vendors and food booths available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends in June. Market Square is always open and free to the public. For more information, visit the Market Square event page .
• LAST CHANCE FOR BURGER WEEK: This is the last weekend for San Antonio Burger Week, which includes specials at more than 35 restaurants. Burger Week ends on Monday. Read more here .
• MOVIE THEATER CONCERTS: GHOST’s debut movie, “Rite Here Rite Now,” is getting an extended-release window worldwide due to massive fan demand. From Thursday through Sunday, the film will be shown at multiple theaters, including Santikos Entertainment Palladium, Regal Live Oak and Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Stone Oak. Read more here .
• DRIVERS BEWARE: As part of the Loop 1604 North Expansion Project, TxDOT will have several closures starting at 9 p.m. Friday, June 21 through 5 a.m. Monday, June 24, weather permitting. Click here for the closures.

Thursday, June 20

• FREE WHATABURGER COFFEE: Whataburger is offering visitors a free 16-ounce iced coffee from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to celebrate the summer solstice. Read our story here .
• FREE PET ADOPTIONS: San Antonio Pets Alive! will have an adoption special with over 50 animals free of charge. The adoption event will take place 6-7:30 p.m. at Principle Volvo Cars of San Antonio at 1326 NE Interstate Loop 410. Read our story here .
• SPORTS COMPLEX OPEN HOUSE: San Antonio Parks and Recreation will host an open house at Wheatley Heights Sports Complex from 6-8 p.m. Thursday. The Wheatley Heights Sports Complex is located at 200 Noblewood Drive. Read our preview here .
• SUMMER SOLSTICE PERFORMANCE: URBAN-15′s celestial tradition at San Antonio International Airport (SAT) takes place at 2 p.m. This is the 23rd year dancer and artist Catherine Cisneros will dance to mark the summer solstice. Read more here .
• RIVER WALK LIVE!: Western soul artist and Texas native Angel White will perform. But this week, the concert will move from Arneson River Theatre to the Hard Rock Café, 111 W. Crockett. Seating begins at 6 p.m., followed by the opening artist at 7 p.m. White will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. The event is free. Click here for more information.
• HEMISFAIR LIVE MUSIC: Sound Cream Sunset Sessions will take place at Civic Park every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in June. These events include a live DJ, dancing and local vendors. Read more here .

Friday, June 21

• Hemisfair will have Make Music Day festivities with music-making crafts and dancing from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Yanaguana Garden. Read about it here .
• The City of San Antonio will have a free Make Music Day festival from noon to 10 p.m. at Texas Public Radio headquarters, 321 W. Commerce St. The City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture is cohosting the event. Read our story here .
• The San Antonio Botanical Garden will have an all-day Make Music Day festival at the Betty Kelso Center. The event will feature a diverse range of musical groups and genres throughout the day, from classical, rock, mariachi and swing dance. Access to the event is free with Garden admission or membership. Read more here .
• Click here for more Make Music Day events in San Antonio.
• ZOO LOCAL DAYS: All Bexar County residents can get into the zoo for $8 each on Friday. Read more here .
• INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA: Friday marks International Day of Yoga. People can join a yoga class for free on Friday evening at Hemisfair’s Civic Park. Click here to view our story.

Saturday, June 22

• DAISO OPENS: Daiso, a store that sells decorations, beauty products and more, is having its grand opening this Saturday. The store will host a special offering for the first two days of its grand opening in the Alamo Ranch area at 5347 W Loop 1604 N., Suite #105. Read all about it here .
• PRIDE RESOURCE FAIR: San Antonio Parks and Recreation will host a free Pride Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Berta Almaguer Dance Studio & Community Center, 138 S Josephine Tobin Drive. The event is open to all community members, including families and their allies. Read our story here .
• REFUGEE WELLNESS AND RESOURCE FAIR: The City of San Antonio, Catholic Charities, RAICES, Global Refuge and WellMed will host the Refugee Wellness & Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 4603 Manitou Drive. For more information, visit the United Nations Refugee Agency website .
• LIVE MUSIC AT RIVERCENTER: The Summer Concert Series at the Shops at Rivercenter continues Saturday with a free show from Rollfast Ramblers. The show is 6-8 p.m. Click here for more information.
• SAN ANTONIO MUSIC SHOWCASE: Back for the first time since 2019, the festival will feature dozens of local bands across several venues in the Alamo City. A wristband gives people access to participating venues from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wristbands range from $15 to $100. Click here for more information.
• WORLD CAMEL DAY: From 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 22, camels will be seen on the Alamo grounds to educate the public about the use of camels in America during the 19th century. Read more here .

Happening around Texas

• Videos show flooding on Texas Coast from Tropical Storm Alberto
• Six Flags and Schlitterbahn parent company to finalize $8 billion merger
• City of San Antonio to host 2024 Fourth of July Celebration at Woodlawn Lake Park
• Comedian Kathy Griffin brings her standup comedy to San Antonio

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About the Author

Rebecca salinas.

Rebecca Salinas is an award-winning digital journalist who joined KSAT in 2019. She reports on a variety of topics for KSAT 12 News.

SAFARI FAQs

We are here to assist you..

• WHAT IS THE AVERAGE TIME SPENT AT THE RANCH? It generally takes an hour to an hour and a half to drive through once. Visitors are welcome to travel through the Wildlife Ranch as many times as they would like during their visit. The only exception is that visitors cannot leave and then return later that day. The Walk-A-Bout area is included. While visiting times vary from visitor to visitor, we safely suggest allocating at least five hours, which also allows for lunch at the Safari Camp Grill.
• DO YOU DRIVE-THRU IN YOUR OWN CAR? ARE THERE SHUTTLES? Visitors explore the Wildlife Ranch in their own vehicles, as we do not provide rental cars. However, if you prefer a guided tour, our safari vehicles are available for an enhanced experience!
• DO YOU HAVE ANY COUPONS OR DISCOUNTS? You can find a coupon, along with other San Antonio attractions, online at https://savisitoralliance.com/marketing/. Discounts are also available for military/first responders and AAA members. Only coupons with online codes can be redeemed during the online purchase process. All other coupons or discounts must be redeemed/ applied during ticket purchase onsite upon arrival.
• CAN WE BRING OUR OWN FOOD FOR A PICNIC? Certainly! However, please note that barbecuing is not permitted. We offer a covered picnic pavilion and additional picnic tables under large canopy oak trees on a first-come, first-served basis. If you happen to forget anything, the Safari Camp Grill might have what you need to enhance your picnic experience.
• ARE 18-WHEELERS, JEEPS, CONVERTIBLES, OR MOTORCYCLES ALLOWED? 18-wheelers are welcome, but trailers are not allowed in the Drive-Thru. If you have a trailer, you can drop it off in the parking lot before entering the Drive-Thru. Jeeps are permitted, but vehicle tops and full doors must be installed. Convertibles and motorcycles are not allowed.
• CAN WE RIDE IN THE BACK OF THE PICKUP OR WITH VAN DOORS OPEN? To ensure safety, riding in the back of pickups or having van doors open is not permitted during the Safari Drive-Thru. It is crucial for visitors to have the protection of closed vehicles, especially from species with horns or antlers.
• WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH? Since visitors have the flexibility to travel through the Drive-Thru multiple times during their visit, we recommend mornings for a better experience. To avoid peak visitation times during holidays, summer, and weekends, it is advisable to arrive closer to 9 a.m.
• CAN WE EXIT THE PARK AND COME BACK THE SAME DAY? Please note that visitors are unable to re-enter the park on the same day without purchasing admission again. Once visitors exit through the main gates, their tickets expire.
• WHAT IF WE NEED TO GET GAS? Visitors can request a staff member to sign their admission receipt at the Safari Trading Post. They have a 30-minute window to refuel and return to the park.
• CAN WE PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE? Absolutely! Simply visit the homepage of this website and choose your desired safari by clicking on "Safari Options" to access more information and purchase tickets. Alternatively, visitors can also buy tickets at the admissions booth upon entering the park. Upon admission, visitors receive a complimentary Adventure Guide Book, which includes safety regulations and a Ranch map.
• DO THE ANIMALS COME OUT WHEN IT IS RAINING? Please be aware that animal behavior is always unpredictable, and we cannot guarantee their actions. Light rain does not typically affect the animals, as they are accustomed to living in natural elements. However, during heavy rain or extreme cold, the animals may seek shelter. Visitors are encouraged to drive through the park multiple times during their visit for further enjoyment.
• DOES THE HEAT AFFECT THE ANIMALS? While many animals are genetically adapted to hot conditions, they respond to temperature changes much like humans do. It's not uncommon for them to seek shade for extended periods when temperatures soar.
• ARE PETS ALLOWED? No, pets are not allowed on the premises of Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of both our animals and your pets. Even service animals are not permitted as our animals may perceive them as predators, potentially leading to injury. We prioritize the well-being of all visitors and animals at the ranch. Link to full explanation: U.S. Department of Justice www.ada.gov "At a zoo, service animals can be restricted from areas where the animals on display are the natural prey or natural predators of dogs, where the presence of a dog would be disruptive, causing the displayed animals to behave aggressively or become agitated."
• AM I IN DANGER OF AN ANIMAL RAMMING MY CAR? The animals at the park are not vicious, but it's important to remember that they are still wild animals. When entering the park, you do so at your own risk. The animals are aware that vehicles may contain food and they are not bashful in looking for it.
• HOW DO I APPLY FOR A JOB? Even if immediate positions are not open, we always accept job applications. Applications can be printed off in advance and delivered in person or mailed. You can also apply online by clicking here!
• HOW DO I REQUEST A DONATION? Our donations department allocates passes on a monthly basis to organizations raising funds for appropriate causes. Please submit a request via the online form for consideration.