When it comes to seeing holiday lights at zoos across the United States, it seems San Antonio is coming out on top. One of the city’s most adored and family-friendly holiday traditions just landed the San Antonio Zoo in the No. 4 spot to experience the magic of Zoo Lights across the country.

USA Today recently released its rankings of the top 10 winners for Best Zoo Lights, with the Alamo City’s very own zoo coming in at fourth in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Bested by zoos in Cincinnati, Ohio; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Toledo, Kansas, the San Antonio Zoo was recognized for its immersive celebration of the season.

“Zoo Lights has become one of San Antonio’s most cherished holiday traditions, and being named the No. 4 Best Zoo Lights in the nation is an incredible honor,” said Tim Morrow, president and CEO of the San Antonio Zoo. “This recognition is a testament to our Zoo Crew, our partners at CPS Energy, and our community. Each year, our team continues to expand the magic of Zoo Lights, making it a must-see seasonal experience.”

Powered by CPS Energy, Zoo Lights transforms the San Antonio Zoo once a year, wrapping nearly every inch of the zoo in millions of lights, setting the stage for guests to have unforgettable moments with the people they love most. The year 2025 marks the 11th season of Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo, bringing a slew of new attractions for visitors to be dazzled by. From immersive light trails that guide you through themed holiday realms with synchronized sounds to newly added decor and character moments exclusive to the San Antonio Zoo, it’s no wonder USA Today readers awarded this Alamo City gem the No. 4 spot in the country to see lights at the zoo.

Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo is included with the price of admission to the zoo and is free for members.

Here are the spots that made USA Today’s top 10 list for Best Zoo Lights nationwide:

1. PNC Festival of Lights at Cincinnati Zoo

2. Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
   3. Lights Before Christmas at Toledo Zoo
   4. Zoo Lights at San Antonio Zoo Powered by CPS Energy
   5. Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival
   6. Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
   7. Saint Louis Zoo Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank
   8. Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
   9. Christmas at the Zoo at Indianapolis Zoo
   10. Wild Lights at Detroit Zoo

This article originally published at San Antonio Zoo ranks near No. 1 in the US for holiday lights.