Austin Zoo:

Austin has a Zoo! Well, actually, it's an animal sanctuary, but for what it is, considering Austin doesn't have a "proper" zoo, this place is awesome. I was initially a little wary of the place because some yuppie families gave it bad reviews online, but I think they were expecting a trip at the mall and thinking the animals would be performing like they do at Sea World or something. So if you aren't a Yuppie Jack Ass then this place is for you!
It's family freindly, staffed by real folks (not "Disney-Fake") trying to help out animals that have been discarded, abused or injured. With exception of some Monkeys missing back fur, and a gorgeous Wolf missing a hind leg, you would never know these animals were rescued. The list of animals you could see are amazing: Lions, Jaguars, a Bear, Wolves, Tigers, Cougars, a variety of MONKEYS!!!!!, talking/laughing parrots and birds, snakes, lizards, and a of course a petting zoo. There is also a train that travels into the hill country, but stays away from the sanctuary animals.
If you go there with respect, and follow the rules and not let your kids screw with the animals, you'll have a great time. If you go expecting to be catered to while you child runs wild then please consider taking the kids to Wal-mart where they cater to people like you.

(Click the pic to check it out!)