Bronx Zoo
Explore a 265-acre urban oasis housing 10,000 animals in meticulously recreated natural habitats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Bronx Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 265-acre urban oasis housing 10,000 animals in meticulously recreated natural habitats.
"A wild adventure awaits at the Bronx Zoo, offering a huge variety of animals and immersive exhibits!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your Bronx Zoo tickets online in advance, even for free admission days.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Get to the zoo before opening to secure better parking spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Penguin Plunge
Penguin Building
Marvel at adorable penguins, including baby penguins, in their icy habitat. A must-see for animal lovers!
Budgie Landing
Aviary
Get up close and personal with hundreds of colorful budgies. You can even feed them in this interactive exhibit!
World of Darkness
World of Darkness Exhibit
Discover fascinating nocturnal animals, including the elusive sand cat, in this newly reopened exhibit.
Dinosaur Safari
Dinosaur Safari Trail
Roar back in time on a trail featuring over 60 life-size, animatronic dinosaurs that will thrill all ages.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your Bronx Zoo tickets online in advance, even for free admission days.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Get to the zoo before opening to secure better parking spots. +1
🗺️ Grab a Map
The zoo is vast! Grab a map to plan your route and make the most of your visit.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your Bronx Zoo tickets online in advance, even for free admission days.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Get to the zoo before opening to secure better parking spots. +1
🗺️ Grab a Map
The zoo is vast! Grab a map to plan your route and make the most of your visit.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must!
💰 Consider Membership
If you plan to visit multiple times a year, a membership can be cost-effective.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles or be prepared to purchase drinks, especially on warm days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bronx Zoo's vast collection of animals and immersive exhibits like Budgie Landing and World of Darkness. Many appreciate the free Wednesday admission, though it comes with significant crowds. Some find food prices high and parking can be a hassle if not arriving early.
"I visited the Bronx Zoo on their free Wednesday and decided to upgrade for the special attractions — 100% worth it! The extra experiences really made the day. The dinosaur exhibit was such a fun surprise, the butterfly garden was peaceful and beautiful, and the gorilla exhibit was unforgettable. My absolute favorite was the monorail. The ride operator pointed out all the animals along the way, which made it even more exciting. We saw elephants, a tiger, and so many others up close from a totally different view. We also enjoyed watching the birds, seeing the sea lions being fed (such a fun show!), and checking out the reptile house with all the different snakes. One of the coolest moments was watching the bears take a swim to cool off on the hot day. It was so playful and fun to see. Overall, it was the perfect date with my boyfriend. We saw so many amazing animals, had great food (surprisingly tasty for a zoo!), and spent the whole day exploring. I highly recommend paying for the upgrade — it’s worth every penny for all the special attractions and experiences."
Kiana
"This zoo is awesome! Be warned, there is A LOT of walking & not all the walking paths are wheel chair/stroller friendly. We went as a family of 5 with kids aging from 5 to 17. Everyone had a blast! Each exhibit has some interactive component. There are multiple restrooms around the park and cafes to grab food/drink. A few stroller parks outside of tight exhibits. Parking is $22 which is a bummer considering the walk from parking has ZERO sidewalks so you have to walk into oncoming traffic in both directions. We visited on a Saturday morning & had to wait 10+ mins to park. Once inside the zoo, we had zero complaints! The wide variety of animals was the most impressive part. We saw everything from gorillas to flamingos but our kids favorite exhibit was the Dinosaurs. All of the employees around the park were very helpful & full of knowledge of their “station” animals. While the tickets are pricey, i would say that it’s worth the price! Just pack a picnic lunch & make a day of it to get your monies worth 🙂"
Rudi Hilson
"Came with the family today and had a blast! Parking was super easy and affordable. The facilities were so clean, and everything was reasonably priced. There were an abundance of animals, easily laid out, and the highlight was the dinosaur exhibit. Highly recommend for a nice family day!"
Kayla B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Driving is often recommended for flexibility, especially with families. The Bronx River Parkway entrance is usually the easiest. Public transportation options include subway and bus routes, but driving offers more convenience for carrying strollers and gear. +1
Yes, parking is available. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot. The Bronx River parking lots, particularly Asia, are often recommended. +1
Parking fees apply. Consider a membership with a parking add-on if you plan to visit frequently, as it can be cost-effective.
Yes, you can reach the Bronx Zoo via subway and bus. Check the MTA website for the most current routes and schedules.
While there isn't a direct train station at the zoo, you can take a subway to a nearby station and then transfer to a bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bronx Zoo ticket prices vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book online in advance.
Yes, the Bronx Zoo offers free admission on Wednesdays, but these days require advance ticket reservations and can be very crowded. Look for special promotions or consider a membership for potential savings. +1
Bronx Zoo hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most current operating times before your visit.
Yes, even for free admission days (Wednesdays), you are required to reserve your tickets online in advance to secure your entry. +1
It is highly recommended to purchase your Bronx Zoo tickets online in advance. While some on-site purchases might be possible, online booking ensures your entry and can save you time.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the penguins, the colorful budgies in Budgie Landing, the sand cats in World of Darkness, and the majestic lions and tigers. The zoo has a vast collection of animals from around the globe. +2
Absolutely! The Bronx Zoo is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits like Budgie Landing and the Dinosaur Safari, making it a fantastic day out for children.
The Bronx Zoo offers various dining options, from quick snacks like chicken tenders and fries to more substantial meals. Be aware that food prices can be on the higher side.
The Bronx Zoo is huge! To see most of it, plan for at least 4-6 hours. If you want a more relaxed visit, consider dedicating a full day.
Yes, the Bronx Zoo frequently features special exhibits. Currently, Budgie Landing and the World of Darkness (featuring sand cats) are popular attractions. The Dinosaur Safari is also a seasonal highlight.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for opportunities at the Budgie Landing for vibrant bird shots, the World of Darkness for unique animal portraits, and the Dinosaur Safari for dramatic prehistoric scenes. The diverse habitats offer many scenic backdrops.
Drones are generally not permitted at the Bronx Zoo for the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. Always check the zoo's official policy.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check the Bronx Zoo's official guidelines regarding photography equipment to ensure compliance.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer lighting and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the Bronx Zoo's official website or social media for any special photography events or tours they might offer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a full day, as the zoo is vast, and little legs can get tired. Bring snacks and drinks, or be prepared for zoo food prices, which can be on the higher side. Strollers are a must for younger children. While driving is convenient, public transport is also an option if you're comfortable navigating with kids and gear.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider the cost of transportation and parking if you're driving.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light and fewer crowds, making them ideal times for capturing stunning shots. While tripods and drones may have restrictions, always check the zoo's official photography policy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Bronx Zoo: A Guide to Getting Around
Once inside, the zoo is divided into distinct regions, each showcasing animals from a particular part of the world. A zoo map is essential for planning your route and ensuring you don't miss key exhibits.
For those considering a membership, it can be a worthwhile investment if you plan multiple visits, as it often includes benefits like parking discounts or free admission.
Bronx Zoo Admission: Tickets, Prices, and Free Days
Ticket prices can fluctuate, so checking the official Bronx Zoo website for current Bronx Zoo prices and Bronx Zoo admission prices is always recommended.
When planning your visit, be aware of the Bronx Zoo hours, as they can change seasonally. Booking your Bronx Zoo online tickets well in advance is the most reliable way to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment, regardless of whether you're paying or taking advantage of free admission.
Must-See Exhibits and Animal Encounters
The World of Darkness exhibit is a fascinating journey into the lives of nocturnal animals, featuring the elusive sand cat and other creatures of the night.
Beyond these popular spots, the zoo is home to iconic big cats like lions and tigers, as well as elephants and a wide variety of primates and reptiles, ensuring there's something to captivate every animal enthusiast. While many exhibits are freely accessible with admission, some special experiences, like the Wild Encounter exhibit where cheetahs are featured, may require separate booking and an additional fee.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit