Tucked into the southeast corner of Central Park, the Central Park Zoo is a compact but captivating urban zoo that’s perfect for families, animal lovers, and curious visitors of all ages. A Central Park Zoo Tour combines wildlife, education, and iconic NYC scenery in one unforgettable visit. 🐧🦁🌳
📍 Where Is the Central Park Zoo?
📍 East Side of Central Park, between 63rd and 66th Streets
🚇 Nearest subway:
- 5th Ave/59th St (N, R, W)
- 68th St–Hunter College (6)
🗺️ Located just inside the Fifth Avenue & 64th Street entrance
🐾 What You’ll See on the Tour
The Central Park Zoo is divided into several key exhibits:
🐧 Temperate Territory & Polar Circle
- Home to penguins, sea lions, grizzly bears, and snow leopards
- Don’t miss the sea lion feeding and penguin feeding times!
🦎 Tropical Zone
- A lush indoor rainforest with exotic birds, monkeys, and reptiles
- Walk-through habitat under a glass dome — warm and steamy year-round!
🐐 Children’s Zoo (Tisch Children’s Zoo)
- Petting zoo with goats, sheep, pigs, and more
- Fun for kids — includes interactive exhibits and climbing features
🦅 Birds, Frogs & More
- Red pandas, ducks, and tropical birds throughout the zoo’s paths
🕒 Hours & Admission
🕔 Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (seasonal hours may vary)
- Open year-round, rain or shine
💰 Admission Prices (General):
- Adults (13+): ~$19.95
- Children (3–12): ~$14.95
- Seniors (65+): ~$16.95
- Children under 3: Free
🎟️ Tickets include both the main zoo and the Children’s Zoo
👉 Buy online in advance at centralparkzoo.com
🎟️ Tour Options
1️⃣ Self-Guided Visit
- Explore at your own pace
- Interactive signs and apps available for info
2️⃣ Guided Tours & Education Programs
- Private or group tours available by request
- Includes behind-the-scenes access and animal talks
🐧 Great for school groups or wildlife enthusiasts
❓ Central Park Zoo Tour – FAQ
1️⃣ How long does a visit take?
🕒 1–1.5 hours for the full zoo (including the Children’s Zoo)
More if you attend feedings or take photos
2️⃣ Are there animal feedings or shows?
✅ Yes!
- Sea lion feedings: several times daily
- Penguin feedings: check schedule upon arrival
🎤 Some feedings include live narration from zookeepers
3️⃣ Is it family- and stroller-friendly?
👨👩👧👦 100%!
- Paths are paved and flat
- Stroller and wheelchair accessible
- The Children’s Zoo is a favorite for young kids
4️⃣ Is the zoo indoors or outdoors?
🌦️ A mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits, making it a great destination year-round
5️⃣ Is the zoo good for adults too?
✅ Yes — while small, the zoo has fascinating species and is a peaceful break from the city bustle
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🎟️ Buy tickets online to skip the line
- 🐾 Arrive at feeding times for the best animal activity
- 🍴 Grab a snack or coffee at nearby Le Pain Quotidien or Central Park vendors
- 🧭 Combine with nearby attractions: The Pond, Gapstow Bridge, or a stroll up The Mall
🎟 Want help planning a full Central Park day with the zoo, food, and scenic stops?
Let me know! I’ll help you map out the perfect itinerary — whether it’s family fun, animal encounters, or a peaceful NYC escape 🐻🌿🗽🐧
🐾 Central Park Zoo Tour – FAQ
Heading to the Central Park Zoo? Whether you’re a family with kids, an animal lover, or just exploring Central Park, this FAQ will help you get the most out of your visit! 🐧🦁🌿
1️⃣ Where is the Central Park Zoo located?
📍 Inside Central Park at East 64th Street & Fifth Avenue
🚇 Nearest subway stations:
- 5th Ave/59th St (N, R, W lines)
- 68th St–Hunter College (6 line)
🗺️ Just a short walk into the park from the southeast corner entrance
2️⃣ What animals can I see at the zoo?
🦁 Some of the zoo’s highlights include:
- Sea lions, snow leopards, grizzly bears
- Penguins, red pandas, tropical birds
- Monkeys, frogs, lizards, and more
🐐 At the Children’s Zoo, you’ll find goats, pigs, and sheep you can pet!
3️⃣ How much does it cost to visit?
💰 General Admission (includes main zoo + Children’s Zoo):
- Adults (13+): ~$19.95
- Children (3–12): ~$14.95
- Seniors (65+): ~$16.95
- Children under 3: Free
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased online at centralparkzoo.com
4️⃣ What are the zoo’s hours?
🕒 Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
✅ Open year-round, rain or shine
📆 Check the website for holiday schedules or seasonal changes
5️⃣ How long does a visit take?
🕐 Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours
⏳ Add extra time for:
- Animal feedings
- Photos
- Kids’ playtime at the Children’s Zoo
6️⃣ Are there live feedings or shows?
✅ Yes! Some highlights:
- Sea lion feedings – several times daily
- Penguin feedings – indoors, check posted times
🎤 Some include narration by keepers with fun animal facts
7️⃣ Is it family- and stroller-friendly?
👨👩👧👦 Absolutely!
- Flat, paved paths
- Stroller accessible
- The Tisch Children’s Zoo is interactive and ideal for young kids
8️⃣ Is the zoo indoors or outdoors?
🌦️ Both!
- Outdoor habitats: sea lions, bears, leopards
- Indoor exhibits: tropical rainforest, penguins, reptiles
Great for any weather!
9️⃣ Is the zoo good for adults and older visitors too?
✅ Yes!
Even though it’s compact, the Central Park Zoo features rare species, beautiful landscaping, and peaceful corners to relax
🔟 Can I eat inside the zoo?
🥪 The zoo has snack stands and vending machines
🍽️ For more options, grab food nearby at:
- Le Pain Quotidien (inside the park)
- Cafés on 5th Ave
🧺 You can also bring snacks and enjoy a picnic in Central Park
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🐧 Visit earlier in the day for active animals and fewer crowds
- 🎟️ Book tickets online to skip the line
- 📸 Don’t miss a photo at the sea lion pool or “Dancing Goat” fountain
- 🧭 Pair with nearby stops: Gapstow Bridge, The Pond, The Mall, or Central Park Carousel
🎟 Want help planning a full Central Park day with the zoo, a picnic, and scenic strolls?
Let me know! I’ll help you create a fun, relaxing, animal-filled NYC experience for any age group 🐻🌳📷🐧
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