Whether you’re planning a weekend outing with the kids, exploring New York City for the first time, or looking for educational wildlife experiences, NYC’s zoos offer some of the most family-friendly attractions around. From iconic Bronx Zoo adventures to the charming Central Park Zoo, here are the 10 best zoos in New York City to visit in 2025—curated with families in mind.
1. Bronx Zoo – A Wildlife Wonder in the Heart of the Bronx
The Bronx Zoo is not just the largest urban zoo in the U.S.—it’s a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary that spans 265 acres and is home to over 10,000 animals. From tiger trails to immersive rainforest exhibits, this place feels more like a global safari than a city zoo.
Family favorites:
JungleWorld (indoor Asian rainforest)
Bug Carousel (yes, it’s a ride!)
Congo Gorilla Forest (a top-rated experience)
Children’s Zoo with interactive feeding stations
- Insider tip: Visit mid-week in the morning for fewer crowds. And don’t miss the Wild Asia Monorail, especially if visiting with toddlers or grandparents.
- Website: Visit the official Bronx Zoo website for tickets, parking info, and seasonal events.
2. Central Park Zoo – A Compact Gem in Manhattan
Perfectly located in the southeast corner of Central Park, this 6.5-acre zoo may be small, but it’s packed with charm. It’s ideal for younger kids who may get tired at larger parks.
What to expect:
Sea lion feedings (a crowd favorite!)
Snow leopards and red pandas
Tisch Children’s Zoo (hands-on and educational)
Tropic Zone (walk among free-flying birds and tropical species)
- Seasonal fun: In winter, the Delacorte Clock plays nursery rhymes on the hour—a magical experience for little ones.
- Website: Get updates and tickets on the Central Park Zoo official site.
3. Queens Zoo – A Peaceful Urban Wildlife Retreat
Often overshadowed by its larger cousins, the Queens Zoo is a true hidden gem. It focuses on animals native to the Americas, providing a different educational experience.
Top highlights:
Domed Aviary modeled after the 1964 World’s Fair Pavilion
Bison Range (rarely found in urban zoos)
Farm with goats, sheep, and pigs—great for toddlers
- Crowd factor: This zoo is usually quieter, making it a perfect stop for families wanting a more relaxed visit.
- Website: Plan your visit through the Queens Zoo website.
4. Prospect Park Zoo – Brooklyn’s Kid-Focused Favorite
Tucked inside the sprawling Prospect Park, this 12-acre zoo is one of Brooklyn’s best family hangouts. It’s designed with kids in mind and offers hands-on learning and interaction.
Attractions to check out:
Discovery Trail with red pandas and Pallas’s cats
Sea lion pool with feeding sessions
Barn and Garden for petting domestic animals
- Tip for parents: The zoo is stroller-friendly and close to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden—perfect for a full day outdoors.
- Website: Explore events and hours on the Prospect Park Zoo website.
5. Staten Island Zoo – Small but Surprisingly Diverse
Nicknamed the “biggest little zoo,” the Staten Island Zoo offers an intimate setting with over 1,500 animals. It’s particularly famous for its reptile collection—one of the largest in the country.
Don’t miss:
Reptile Wing (especially cool for older kids)
Otter Falls (playful and educational)
Kangaroo Walkabout and African Savannah
- Local vibe: Less touristy and more community-oriented—great for families seeking a slower pace.
- Website: Check admission and events on the Staten Island Zoo website.
6. New York Aquarium – Ocean Adventures by the Boardwalk
Though technically an aquarium, this facility is part of the Wildlife Conservation Society and is deeply tied to NYC’s zoological experience. It offers immersive marine exhibits with both indoor and outdoor elements—perfect for year-round visits.
Highlights:
Ocean Wonders: Sharks! – a 57,000-square-foot shark tank tunnel
Sea Cliffs with playful sea lions and penguins
4D Theater experiences for kids
Conservation-themed exhibits with hands-on learning
- Pro tip: Pair your visit with a walk along the Coney Island boardwalk or a Nathan’s Famous hot dog nearby.
- Website:
Learn more and grab tickets at the New York Aquarium website.
7. Greenburgh Nature Center – Wildlife Meets Sustainability
Location: Scarsdale, Westchester County (about 30 mins from NYC)
Set on 33 wooded acres, the Greenburgh Nature Center offers a cozy, low-key alternative to the traditional zoo. It’s especially great for younger kids and families who value sustainability and environmental education.
Features include:
Live animal exhibits (hawks, snakes, turtles, bunnies)
Outdoor nature trails and butterfly garden
Indoor Nature’s Discovery Playground
Eco-friendly exhibits and green roof tours
- Bonus: Their calendar is filled with kid-focused seasonal events, like Maple Sugaring and Fall Harvest Weekends.
- Website: Get details and event updates at the Greenburgh Nature Center.
8. Bergen County Zoo – A Short Hop from NYC
Location: Paramus, New Jersey (approx. 20 miles from Manhattan)
This AZA-accredited zoo is easily accessible from NYC and features North and South American wildlife in well-designed, educational exhibits. It’s clean, affordable, and family-focused.
Must-sees:
South American Pampas exhibit with tapirs and capybaras
Free-flight aviary
Pony rides and train rides (seasonal)
Hands-on children’s zoo
- Parent tip: It’s located in Van Saun County Park, which also has a playground, picnic areas, and splash pad—ideal for a full family day.
- Website: Plan your visit via the Bergen County Zoo official site.
9. Turtle Back Zoo – Engaging, Expansive, and Just Across the River
Location: West Orange, New Jersey (45 minutes from Midtown Manhattan).
Turtle Back Zoo is a highly rated, family-centric zoo known for its range of species and interactive experiences. It’s also part of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, offering a ton to do in one stop.
Attractions include:
African Adventure with giraffes and lions
Touch tank with stingrays
Butterfly tent and train rides
Treetop Adventure Course (for older kids/teens)
- Combo tip: You can also visit the nearby mini-golf, paddle boats, or ice arena for an all-in-one outing.
- Website: Visit the Turtle Back Zoo official site for hours, pricing, and events.
10. Stamford Museum & Nature Center – Farm, Forest, and Wildlife
Location: Stamford, Connecticut (just over an hour from NYC by train or car).
More than a zoo, this hybrid center offers a working farm, nature trails, a planetarium, and live animal exhibits, making it one of the most diverse educational destinations for kids in the NYC metro area.
Fun for all ages:
Heckscher Farm with goats, cows, and donkeys
Nature trails with scavenger hunts
Otter Pond and animal education center
Seasonal maple syrup festivals and family farm nights
- Website: Check exhibits and educational programs at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center.
Final Thoughts
New York City’s zoos aren’t just tourist spots—they’re educational sanctuaries where city kids connect with nature. Whether you’re raising a future zoologist or just looking for a low-stress family outing, these 10 zoos offer safe, enriching, and memorable experiences.
If you’re visiting NYC in 2025, don’t skip the chance to explore at least one of these urban oases.
Quick FAQs – Best NYC Zoos in 2025
Which is the biggest zoo in New York City?
The Bronx Zoo is the largest and most famous, with over 265 acres and 10,000+ animals.
Are these zoos good for toddlers?
Yes! Especially Central Park, Queens, and Prospect Park Zoos—they’re smaller and more interactive.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For the Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo, it’s highly recommended—especially during weekends and holidays.
Which zoo is best for a rainy day?
The Bronx Zoo’s JungleWorld and the indoor areas of the Central Park Zoo are great rainy-day options.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
