Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.
Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT
Zoom and Facebook
Online Event
Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT
Zoom and Facebook
Online Event
Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT
Keller United Methodist Church
Keller, TX
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Frank Buck Zoo</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>1000 West California Street</div> <div> <span>Gainesville</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>76240</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.gainesville.tx.us/index.aspx?nid=108" target="_blank">Frank Buck Zoo</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 940-668-4539</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Frank+Buck+Zoo%2C+1000+West+California+Street%2C+Gainesville%2C+TX+76240" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and colorful history. Located right in the heart of Gainesville, Texas, the Frank Buck Zoo has been serving the children, schools and citizens of North Central Texas and Southern Oklahoma for over 50 years. The Zoo was born from the proud, rich heritage of the Gainesville Community Circus. The “only show of its kind in the world” was founded by A. Morton Smith and opened in 1930 at the Cooke County Fair in Gainesville. This amusement enterprise delighted enthusiastic audiences in Texas and Oklahoma for over 28 years. Former circus ringmaster, entrepreneur and local philanthropist F.E. (Frankie) Schmitz helped locate the animals from Fair Park to its current location on the west bank of Elm Creek in 1962. Frankie Schmitz’s determined efforts to keep the circus tradition alive and his love of animals helped make the Zoo what it is today. After a devastating fire destroyed most of its equipment in 1954, the circus closed and the animals stayed in their permanent home at the Zoo.The Zoo is named after the father and pioneer of modern era zoos, Frank Buck. Frank Buck was born in Gainesville in 1884. He made his first expedition to South America in 1911. From this date, he crossed the Pacific Ocean forty-five times and traveled the globe twelve times collecting animals for zoo collections around the world. From these expeditions, he earned the nickname Frank “Bring’em Back Alive” Buck. Frank Buck also acted as honorary ringmaster for the Gainesville Community Circus on return trips to Gainesville. Because of his commitment to the community of Gainesville, the Zoo was named in his honor in 1954.The Frank Buck Zoo has updated its image, upgraded existing elements and created the most exciting new exhibit to the Zoo, the African Savannah. The Frank Buck Zoo is now the home to over 130 animals from four continents of the world! The Frank Buck Zoo is even more dedicated to delivering an educational, quality, family-oriented recreation and cultural facility that is a safe, enjoyable and exciting place for all to be entertained. The Zoo staff pride themselves on making your visit a memorable one. Our up-close exhibits help visitors get a better view of the animals and our small size provides the perfect visit for guests of all ages. In March of 2008 the Frank Buck Zoo became home to the World's Only Frank Buck Exhibit when Frank's daughter Barbara Buck befriended the zoo staff and donated items that belonged to her father. Resulting in a fascinating collection of camp tools used to capture animals and media memorabilia from the 1930, 1940, & 1950's.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/gainesville-tx/report/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Gainesville</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-healthy-body-series-winter-dance-workout-dallas-tx-122624-73nv2xbrtrg.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HEALTHY-BODY-SERIES-WINTER-DANCE-WORKOUT">Healthy Body Series: Winter Dance Workout!</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Dec 26, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/virtual-aarp-tx-new-year-restart-workshop-series-dallas-tx-123024-yhnz4cwhbv7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-NEW-YEAR-RESTART-WORKSHOP-SERIES">New Year Restart Workshop Series</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Dec 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/inperson-aarp-tx-ring-in-the-new-year-jazz-concert-fort-worth-tx-010524-5yn43frtfmz.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-RING-IN-THE-NEW-YEAR-JAZZ-CONCERT">Ring in the New Year Jazz Concert</a></h2> <p class="time">Sunday, Jan 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Keller United Methodist Church</p> <p class="loc">Keller, TX</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GAINESVILLE-TX">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Texas Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Texas</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:TXAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">TXAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/texas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Texas</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-texas/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GAINESVILLE-TX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPTexas" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPTX" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarptx/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Frank Buck Zoo - Gainesville, TX"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and" name="description"/> <meta content="Frank, Buck, Zoo, Gainesville, TX" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/frank-buck-zoo-gainesville-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Frank Buck Zoo"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission:To strengthen the connection to the natural world by entertaining,educating and empowering the community.History:The Frank Buck Zoo has a long and"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="33.624001"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-97.1548"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Gainesville, TX</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/gainesville-tx/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/gainesville-tx/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118