Roger Williams Park Zoo sits inside Roger Williams Park on Elmwood Avenue in Providence, on 40 acres of woodland. It is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, opened in 1872, and it keeps more than 100 species, from elephants and giraffes to red pandas and snow leopards. Indoor exhibits, including a glass-enclosed rainforest, make it a practical stop in colder months, and the outdoor paths cover the rest of the year. Families come for the play areas built for small children and for seasonal events such as the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in autumn.
Animals and exhibits
The zoo is laid out across 40 acres of woodland, and its enclosures are built to resemble the natural habitats of the animals that live there. Visitors can see Komodo dragons, zebras, African elephants, Masai giraffes, snow leopards, bears, flamingos and sloths, among others.
The animals are grouped into three main habitats: Tropical America, the Farmyard and the Plains of Africa. A newer area is devoted to Australia and includes the zoo's first saltwater aquarium. A walk-through aviary and underwater viewing areas for polar bears, sea lions and harbor seals are also part of the layout.
The North America section has swimming harbor seals, bald eagles and bison. Some animals in the zoo are not native to New England, including Chilean flamingos and kangaroos from New Guinea. Their enclosures are designed to suit them, and the zoo takes part in global breeding programs for several species.
The glass-enclosed rainforest
The newest major addition is a glass-enclosed rainforest with about 100 plant species and 50 animal species. Exotic birds fly freely through the space, sloths hang from the branches, howler monkeys call, and two giant river otters, Fernando and Romo, swim and play in the water.
The rainforest was built as part of the zoo's conservation focus, and it is one of the best places on the grounds to spend time indoors when the weather turns cold.
Areas for small children
The Our Big Backyard exhibit is aimed at toddlers and preschool children. It has water features, a treehouse and an area where children can catch wooden fish in a pond. There is also water play, hula hooping, chalkboard art and a space for exploring colors and textures.
The zoo also has a playground and a petting zoo, so younger visitors have places to run around between animal stops.
Seasonal events and learning
Winter Wonder Days run in January and February, when admission is half price and there are fewer visitors. Visitors can see the snow leopards, red pandas and other cold-weather animals with less of a crowd.
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular takes place in October and November. Over 5,000 intricately carved pumpkins are set along themed trails that celebrate different parts of American culture. The Holiday Lights Spectacular is another seasonal event at the zoo.
The zoo is a nonprofit and offers environmental education for guests. It has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1986, and it was the first zoo in New England to earn that accreditation. The zoo's Zoo School videos are shared on its YouTube channel. In summer, the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride carries guests over the zoo on a seated zip line.
Getting in and getting around
The first Saturday of each month is free for Providence residents, who must show proof of residence at the counter.
The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Coat check, a cafe, food vendors and a gift shop are on site. The gift shop prices were noted as reasonable by visitors, while the food was described as good quality but priced high.
An indoor horse carousel and a train ride are available for a small fee per person. The zoo has both a free parking lot and a paid one.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, admission is charged. Winter Wonder Days in January and February offers half-price admission, and the first Saturday of each month is free for Providence residents who show proof of residence at the counter.
How long do you need at the zoo?
Plan for a few hours to see the animals. A visit of a couple of hours covers a good part of the zoo, and a full day is possible for those who want to see everything.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. Booking online helps you skip long lines at the entrance.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking lot are listed as wheelchair accessible.
