We are processing your request.
Please, don't close or refresh the page.
New York Tickets Bronx Zoo Plan Your Visit
bronx-zoo-peacock-showing-feathers

Bronx Zoo – Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Bronx Zoo

Spanning 265 acres of diverse wildlife habitats, the Bronx Zoo provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature within the city. Organizing the details of your trip in advance allows you to maximize your time viewing the animals and enjoying the park’s various attractions.

Bronx Zoo – Essential Visitor Info

The park opens daily at 10 AM. Closing times vary based on the time of year and day of the week:

Winter (November 2 - April 1): The park closes daily at 4:30 PM.

Spring/Summer Weekdays (April 2 - October 31): The park closes at 5 PM.

Spring/Summer Weekends & Holidays: The park closes at 5:30 PM.

Note that last entry to the park is permitted until 45 minutes before closing.

To ensure you see the wildlife, please be aware that animal exhibits close 30 minutes prior to the park's scheduled closing time.

Best Time to Visit

To maximize your experience, consider the following timing tips:

Early Arrival: Arriving right at 10 AM allows you to see many animals at their most active and beat the mid-day school groups and crowds.

Weekday Visits: Tuesdays and Thursdays generally see lower attendance than weekends.

Holiday Closures

The Bronx Zoo is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Good to Know Before Visiting The Bronx Zoo

All guests must reserve a date-specific ticket online in advance as on-site ticket sales are not available.

The Bronx Zoo is a cashless environment, so ensure you have a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment method for all in-park purchases.

You should wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park covers 265 acres and involves significant travel between exhibits.

Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are permitted, but glass bottles and plastic straws are strictly prohibited for animal safety.

Animal exhibits begin closing 30 minutes before the park’s scheduled closing time each day.

Re-entry is permitted on the day of your visit provided you have your hand stamped at an exit gate before leaving.

Several major attractions, including the Wild Asia Monorail and the Children’s Zoo, operate only during the peak season from April through October.

Smoking and vaping are prohibited everywhere within the zoo boundaries to maintain a healthy environment for guests and wildlife.

To avoid the largest crowds, plan to arrive at the 10 AM opening time and visit on a weekday if possible.

Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times while inside the park.

Bronx Zoo - Additional Info

The Dancing Crane Cafe is the park's primary year-round dining facility, offering a variety of hot and cold meals including burgers, salads, and vegetarian options.

It features a large indoor seating area as well as an outdoor patio overlooking a natural marsh.

For a more casual experience, seasonal food stands and snack bars are positioned throughout the park, serving quick items like hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream.

Visitors are also permitted to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages into the park.

Designated picnic areas are available at the Bronx River entrance and near the Dancing Crane Cafe.

Please note that for the safety of the animals, glass containers and straws are strictly prohibited throughout the zoo.

Bronx Zoo - Nearby Attractions

New York Botanical Garden: Directly adjacent to the zoo, this 250-acre site features the stunning Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and a world-renowned collection of flora.

Arthur Avenue: Known as the "Real Little Italy" of New York, this nearby neighborhood is famous for its authentic bakeries, butchers, and Italian restaurants.

Fordham University: The university's historic Rose Hill campus is located nearby, featuring impressive collegiate Gothic architecture and sprawling green lawns.

Edgar Allan Poe Cottage: A short trip from the zoo leads to the final home of the famous American writer, preserved as a historic house museum.

Bronx Park: Surrounding the zoo and the botanical gardens, this park offers additional walking trails and green space along the Bronx River.

The New York Botanical Garden Library: Located within the NYBG grounds, this is one of the world's largest and most important botanical research libraries.

Bronx Zoo

Highlights

Discover diverse wildlife across extensive naturalistic habitats.

Enjoy unlimited access to all animal exhibits and amusement attractions.

Take advantage of the convenient Zoo Shuttle to explore the vast grounds easily.

Experience interactive and family-friendly areas like the Butterfly Garden and Children’s Zoo.

Support global conservation efforts through your visit to this renowned zoo.

FAQs about Visiting the Bronx Zoo

When does the Bronx Zoo open and close for visitors?

The park opens daily at 10 AM, with closing times varying between 4:30 PM and 5:30 PM depending on the season and day.

Is there a specific time that animal exhibits stop being accessible?

All animal exhibits close 30 minutes before the park's scheduled closing time each day.

Which subway lines are best for reaching the zoo?

The 2 and 5 trains provide the most direct access to the West Farms Square-East Tremont Ave station.

Does the zoo offer an express transportation option from Manhattan?

The BxM11 Express Bus runs from Madison Avenue directly to the zoo's Bronx River entrance.

Where should I park if I need level access or a wheelchair rental?

The Southern Boulevard Lot is the recommended parking area for guests requiring level access and mobility rentals.

Can I rent a wheelchair or electric vehicle at the park?

Manual wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles are available for rent at the Southern Boulevard entrance.

Are there resources available for guests with sensory sensitivities?

Sensory bags containing noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools can be checked out at Guest Relations booths.

Can I buy tickets at the gate upon arrival?

No, all guests must reserve date-specific tickets online in advance as there are no on-site sales.

Is the Bronx Zoo a cashless environment?

Yes, you must use a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment for all in-park purchases.

Am I allowed to bring my own food and drinks into the zoo?

Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are permitted, though glass bottles and straws are strictly prohibited.

What is the policy for visiting with a service animal?

Only ADA-compliant service dogs or miniature horses are permitted and must be leashed at all times.

Is re-entry allowed if I need to leave the park temporarily?

Re-entry is permitted on the same day if you have your hand stamped at an exit gate before leaving.

Are there age requirements for visiting the park?

Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times during their visit.

Where is the primary dining facility located within the zoo?

The Dancing Crane Cafe is the main year-round dining location and offers a large indoor seating area.

This website sells official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.

The images and videos on this website may contain visual elements that have been created or enhanced using AI technology. They are provided for illustrative purposes only.