Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo is home to over 130 species of wildlife from around the world
Managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center is part of an integrated network of four New York zoos and the New York Aquarium established to advance wildlife conservation awareness and promote the study of zoology.
Established in 1860, the grounds have since undergone extensive renovations replacing the zoo's old fashioned cages with more natural habitats. Just a few meters from the hustle and bustle of 5th Avenue, the Central Park Wildlife Center and the Tisch Children's Zoo are home to over 130 species from all from all over the world including polar bears, sea lions, snow leopards, reptiles and exotic birds. The Central Park Wildlife Center also houses an indoor rainforest exhibit with viewing platforms at various levels offering a unique perspective into the ecosystem beneath the canopy.
Animal lovers of all ages will enjoy the daily Harbour Seal, Penguin and Sea Lion feedings and a variety of small group tours and educational programs conducted by Central Park Wildlife Center staff. Limited opportunities to get up close and personal with the animals as a junior zookeeper or animal trainer are available for an additional fee. The 4-D Theatre is now showing Planet Earth: Ice Worlds, a BBC Earth film exploring the Arctic and Antarctic.
Nearby attractions inclue : The Frick Collection, Whitney Museum of American Art, The Met, American Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesCentral Park Zoo Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Address: New York, NY 10021, USA
Phone: (212) 439-6500
Official Website: Central Park Zoo
Central Park Zoo Reviews
Rated out of 5
Best kept secret in Manhattan!
Landscape is beautiful and there are so many animals. As soon as you enter you will see the seal swimming and splashing.
There are many different areas to see bears, red panda, monkeys, lemurs, penguins and puffins.
Mt favorite was the tropical zone where you see many unique species of birds. Really enjoyed watching penguins and puffins.
I can’t believe I’ve never brought my kids here when they were young. But I became a kid again and truly enjoyed the time at the zoo.
Amazing place to bring kids.. we did not go children’s zoo but it looked so fun for kids.
Admission is $13.95 will cover admission for both places.
Fun, educational and beautiful zoo!
Amy Kang - a week ago
Cute, small zoo, good for kids right in Central Park! Our favorite part was the birds in the tropical area. We always love the small quiet home away from home feeling you get at Central Park in the middle of all the hub bub of the city. They also offer a 4d viewing of a movie, and a Cafe and gift shop.
Ashlei Patterson - in the last week
The smallest zoo I’ve ever been to but it was a great experience. So far the best view I have ever seen of a snow leopard in an enclosure.
The red pandas were adorable and the topical enclosure with all the birds and plans was very nice.
Dylan Conway - a week ago
Such a fun and cute little zoo! We loved exploring all the animals habitats and the exhibits. The staff were very friendly and the animals seemed well taken care of. We loved the sea lions, red pandas, and the tropical bird exhibits! We had so much fun and the zoo was not too large so you do not get overwhelmed. A perfect day or a half day event, we will definitely be back!
Ian Green - 2 months ago
It’s one of the more basic zoos I’ve ever been too. It’s still cute and a nice little stroll. It’s historic so I came out but I go to zoos in most cities I visit and other cities such as Chicago have a free zoo with more appeal. At one point I was like “where is the rest.” lol but still check it out and support
Latoya Neal - 2 weeks ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| N, R, or W | 59th Street / 5th Avenue | 5 minutes |
| F | 63rd Street / Lexington Avenue | 12 minutes |
How to get to Central Park Zoo by Subway
Take the N, R, or W train to 59th Street / 5th Avenue, head north on Grand Army Plaza and continue on East Drive to the zoo entrance or the F train to 63rd Street / Lexington Avenue, head northwest on 63rd St towards Lexington Avenue, turn left at 5th Avenue, turn right at East 61st Street, turn right on park pathway leading to zoo entrance (12 minutes)
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Central Park Zoo:
Photo Gallery
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Polar Circle at the Central Park Wildlife Centre cc licensed photo by La Citta Vita -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr
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