TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights (Houston Zoo)

TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights is the Houston Zoo's after-dark holiday tradition, a bright light path of animal-themed displays winding through the zoo. Stops on the route include the Enchanted Forest, Illuminated Ocean, Geo-Prism Safari, Winter Wonderland and Coca-Cola's Polar Bear, and the Wildlife Carousel keeps turning at night. The lights, not the animals, are the main attraction, so plan a daytime visit if you want to see the zoo's residents.

Our take: The zoo has no lot of its own, so aim for Hermann Park lots G, F, E, H or I, and come early on busy nights.