Snake Farm and Exotic Animal Park, New Braunfels, TX

In 1967 the Snake Farm and Exotic Animal Park opened in New Braunfels, Texas. At the time of its opening the facility was called the Snake Farm. Many local and international travelers referred to the farm as a "must see'' attraction for anyone driving along Interstate 35. The facility is a place for animal lovers to come and learn about the fascinating creatures the facility has. Many Texans and local New Braunfels obtain an annual pass each year to see the animals. At any given time Snake Farm and Exotic Animal Park can have 500 animals.

The park offers primates, hoof stock, cats, birds, alligators, and snakes. New Braunfels is located near Austin, San Antonio, and San Marcos. It is a prime location for most of Texas to come and spend a few hours with animals. The park provides self guided tours, as well as special events. There is a show schedule that involves alligator and crocodile feedings, snake handling and feeding, and other shows.

Visitors are welcome to bring cameras, feed the animals in the petting zoo, and enjoy the experience. Hours of operation are 10am to 6pm daily all year. The costs for entry are $9.75 for adults, $6.75 for children 3 to 12, and children 2 and under are free.

The Animal World Park is divided into sections where it is possible to see the exotic animals. The petting zoo is a great place to head with children. They are able to pet the goats, Llamas, and other ranch style animals. Since the park is a reptile haven visitors can find turtles and tortoises walking around the enclosures. There is a specific spot for the majority of the turtles and tortoises. Each exhibit will provide information about the species of animal like a tortoise, and explain what they eat, where they live, and their names.

The exotic animal exhibit will include fruit bats, Cusimanse Mongoose, foxes, and other animals. For the primates one can expect black capped Capuchin monkeys, ring-tailed lemur and much more. Visitors may also find gorillas in one enclosure. To add to the excitement there are plenty of felines walking around. Tigers, cougars, and lions are part of the exotic animal exhibits. Visitors will be able to see birds, venomous snakes, arachnids, and even butterflies. There is a native wildlife pass through to explore.

The snake exhibit is one of the largest snake displays in North America. Visitors will discover prairie rattlesnakes, Massauga snakes, copperheads, rock rattlesnakes, pigmy rattlesnakes, and many more. They even have a coral snake on display from South Africa.

It is possible to spend the entire day at this zoo. The park has a few places to grab a hamburger, pizza, hot dogs, or vegetarian meals. Visitors who want to stay the day will still be charged the same admission as mentioned above. Individuals who want to volunteer or work at the park will find those opportunities exist. For vacationers the best thing to do is look up when the shows start and work in the other exhibits around them.