The Bronx Zoo, at 2300 Southern Blvd in the Bronx, covers 265 acres with animal habitats, exhibits and walking paths. Its scale makes it easy to spend a full day here, moving between areas such as the African Plains, Tiger Mountain and the Congo Gorilla Forest. Look for gorillas, Siberian tigers, giraffes and sea lions, and check the schedule for animal feedings. Families can also find a Children’s Zoo, playground and seasonal events. The grounds are extensive, so choose a few priority exhibits before setting out.
A zoo built around habitats
The Bronx Zoo opened in 1899 and is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society. Its 265 acres hold animals from around the world in indoor and outdoor exhibits. The grounds are large enough to make a full-day visit possible, so it helps to decide which habitats matter most to you before you start walking.
The zoo’s early history is tied to animal protection. Its first director, William Temple Hornaday, worked to protect the American bison in the early 20th century. Conservation remains central to the zoo’s work today. A 1908 Beaux-Arts building known as the Zoo Center adds an architectural stop to the visit; it houses monitor lizards, with outdoor enclosures for white rhinos, Komodo dragons and giant tortoises.
Key habitats and animals
The Congo Gorilla Forest recreates an African rainforest environment. Western lowland gorillas live there alongside animals including mandrills, okapis and red river hogs. The exhibit gives the zoo’s primates and other species distinct surroundings to explore, and it is one of the main areas to make time for if gorillas are high on your list.
At Tiger Mountain, you can see Siberian tigers. The African Plains brings together animals such as lions, giraffes and zebras in a savanna-style setting. Other named areas include Madagascar, Himalayan Highlands and World of Birds. The range of habitats means you can focus a visit on a particular region or move between very different animals over the course of the day.
Getting around the grounds
Expect plenty of walking between exhibits. The zoo has a shuttle, but double strollers are not permitted on board; families using one can instead bring two single strollers. A monorail through Wild Asia is another way to see animals in that area, including elephants, red pandas and rhinos. Some attractions have separate admission, so check what your ticket includes before planning your route.
Animal feedings and demonstrations are scheduled at exhibits such as the sea lion pool and penguin areas. Check the day’s program when you arrive and build your route around any sessions you want to catch. Food options vary across the zoo; Dancing Crane is one place with a full menu.
Planning a family visit
The Children’s Zoo, playground and seasonal programs give families options beyond the main animal habitats. The Children’s Zoo has included close encounters with farm animals and exhibits for young visitors. Seasonal events can add activities to a visit, with Halloween and winter celebrations among the events held at the zoo.
The zoo recommends getting tickets in advance. Some ticket types and attractions have different admission arrangements, so confirm the current details before you go. If you want a quieter visit, aim for a weekday or arrive early; the size of the grounds makes a well-planned route especially useful on busy days.
Häufige Fragen
How long should you spend at the Bronx Zoo?
Plan for a full day if you want to explore several habitats and exhibits. The grounds cover 265 acres, with long walks between areas.
What are the main exhibits at the Bronx Zoo?
Key areas include the Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, African Plains, Madagascar and Himalayan Highlands.
Are all attractions included with admission?
Some attractions may require separate admission. Check the ticket details before your visit, as the included experiences depend on the ticket type.
Is the Bronx Zoo suitable for children?
Yes. The zoo has a Children’s Zoo, a playground and family-focused seasonal activities. Double strollers cannot go on the shuttle.
