The 16 Best Zoos in New York State

When it comes to exploring wildlife and nature in the beautiful state of New York, zoos are an excellent option for both locals and tourists. New York State is home to a diverse range of zoos that offer unique experiences and opportunities to learn about animals from all around the world.
Whether you're looking to spend a day with your family, have a fun outing with friends, or simply enjoy some time in nature, a visit to a zoo in New York State is a great choice. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your specific interests and needs.
- Interactive animal encounters
- Educational programs and events
- Conservation efforts and initiatives
- Diverse range of animal species
- Beautiful and well-maintained habitats
- Food and shopping options
- Accessibility and location
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, the following list of The 16 Best Zoos in New York State will help you find the perfect destination for your next adventure.
- 1. Bronx Zoo
- 2. Central Park Zoo
- 3. Animal Adventure Park
- 4. The Wild Animal Park
- 5. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
- 6. Seneca Park Zoo
- 7. Queens Zoo
- 8. Staten Island Zoo
- 9. The Buffalo Zoo
- 10. Tiger Mountain at Bronx Zoo
- 11. Utica Zoo
- 12. Jungle World
- 13. Madagascar at Bronx Zoo
- 14. Ross Park Zoo
- 15. Zoo New York
- 16. Harbor Seals
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
1. Bronx Zoo
Information and Reviews
- Massive and immersive experience for animal lovers
- Great place for families with young children
- Well-kept and clean facilities with helpful staff
These reviews showcase the diverse appeal of The Bronx Zoo, making it a must-visit destination for individuals seeking a fun and educational day out in the heart of New York.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
2. Central Park Zoo
Information and Reviews
The reviews speak volumes about the quality of the Central Park Zoo experience:
- Visitors rave about the wide variety of species, including birds and animals that make the zoo a must-visit spot in NYC.
- The interactive feedings of penguins and sea lions are a hit, keeping guests entertained and engaged throughout their visit.
- The well-maintained exhibits and focus on animal welfare leave a positive impression on visitors of all ages.
- From the charming children's zoo to the informative learning stations, the zoo has something for everyone to enjoy.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM
3. Animal Adventure Park
Information and Reviews
Some of the key points highlighted in customer reviews include:
- This place is a hidden gem with many different animals to see and hand-feed at affordable prices.
- Beautiful zoo with well-cared-for animals and plenty of opportunities for interaction, suitable for all ages.
- A fun experience driving through the safari area with animals that are very approachable and expecting snacks.
- Clean park, friendly staff, wonderful variety of animals, and excellent value make it a must-visit destination.
Visitors rave about the park's cleanliness, the friendliness of the staff, and the wide variety of animals on display. Whether you're feeding giraffes, exploring the walking area with its wide paths, or enjoying the light displays during special events like Jungle Bells, Animal Adventure Park promises a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
4. The Wild Animal Park
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their visits to The Wild Animal Park, highlighting a few key points:
- A visitor mentioned that the park is constantly evolving with new attractions each year, making each visit unique and exciting.
- Another customer praised the well-maintained areas for the animals and the friendly staff who went above and beyond to enhance their experience.
- One visitor was thrilled with the interactive Sloth experience, describing it as one of the top five most awesome experiences of their life.
The park has received glowing reviews for its dedication to providing a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages. If you're looking for a place where animals are well cared for and where you can create lasting memories, The Wild Animal Park is the place to be.
- Monday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
5. Rosamond Gifford Zoo
Information and Reviews
- This zoo is fantastic with a variety of animals to see, well-kept grounds, friendly staff, and great amenities.
- Great for a couple hours afternoon outing, small and quaint with many animals to explore.
- Impressed by the amount of animals available to see, affordable gift shop, and different types of exhibits.
- Perfect size for families with small children, enjoyable events, and indoor exhibits on rainy days.
Explore a diverse range of animals, enjoy family-friendly amenities, and create unforgettable memories at Rosamond Gifford Zoo.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM
6. Seneca Park Zoo
Information and Reviews
The Zoo boasts a solid rating of 4.5 based on 5614 reviews. Here are some key points from recent visitors:
- Visit highlighted by active, healthy animals
- Perfect size for younger children and stroller-friendly
- Reasonable food options with opportunities to bring your own
- Plenty of seating and spaces to enjoy a meal or snack
Past visitors have praised the Zoo for its well-maintained grounds, friendly staff, and the abundance of opportunities for both entertainment and education. Whether it's a bright summer day or a chilly winter afternoon, Seneca Park Zoo offers a delightful experience for all ages.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
7. Queens Zoo
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the beautiful presentation of the zoo, the knowledgeable and friendly staff, and the variety of animals that are engaging and active. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, affordable ticket prices, and the simple circular design that allows for a pleasant visit without feeling overwhelmed.
- This is a small zoo but really beautifully presented...so many positive elements.
- Very nice little zoo, good for a short trip when you have a free day.
- THE BEST ZOO IVE EVER BEEN TOO. Wonderful for kids and a shorter visit.
- Clean and well kept zoo, the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.
Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or simply want to spend a relaxing day surrounded by nature and animals, Queens Zoo is a fantastic choice with something to offer for everyone.
- Monday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4:45 PM
8. Staten Island Zoo
Information and Reviews
- Loved it here. Not as many selections of animals as I would have liked but enjoyable for the price of admission and its size. Great experience for family. I would love to revisit for its atmosphere.
- The Staten Island Zoo is a nice and cozy place to visit with your little ones. The place is nicely set up and offers a cute set of animals. Placing a predator right next to the lemurs scared the living daylights out of us, since the alarm call of the lemurs is extremely loud. This must be quite stressful for visitors and both kinds of animals. Otherwise, it's a nice little zoo.
- Hermoso zoológico, pequeño pero bien organizado, con una cantidad razonable de animales, una parte de animales está al aire libre y otra en la que se incluyen los peces y animales de clima tropical en el interior. Precio muy asequible, excelente para pasar un buen rato.
- Monday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
9. The Buffalo Zoo
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive reviews, highlighting a few key points:
- The Buffalo Zoo is perfect for a day out, with a manageable size that allows visitors to see all the exhibits in just a few hours.
- Families appreciate the well-cared-for animals and the updates made to the exhibits over the years.
- The total solar eclipse event was well-organized and unforgettable, providing a unique experience for visitors.
Overall, visitors have expressed enjoyment and satisfaction with their experiences at The Buffalo Zoo. Whether it's exploring the various animal habitats or simply enjoying a day out, this zoo offers something special for everyone.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
10. Tiger Mountain at Bronx Zoo
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Tiger was active during a rainy winter day, well designed exhibit.
- Most animals were out even with the warm weather. A lot of walking, so wear your walking shoes.
- This zoo is magnificent you get to see mother nature at its best. Me and my family had a great time.
- Only 1 tiger, but was active.
- Monday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
11. Utica Zoo
Information and Reviews
- Friendliest staff, even on chilly days
- Well-maintained facilities and animals are well cared for
- Great value for the experience
- Beautiful zoo with pleasant staff
Visitors rave about the beautiful view of the city and animals, as well as the interactive experiences like the playground for kids. The Utica Zoo is also dedicated to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances. Don't miss out on this gem of a zoo!
- Monday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4:30 PM
12. Jungle World
Information and Reviews
- Exceptionally constructed to give a feeling of being within a deep, mysterious rainforest.
- Beautiful settings, friendly staff, and an overall great day at the zoo.
- An amazing experience, a hidden gem in the Bronx Zoo, perfect for students.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5:30 PM
13. Madagascar at Bronx Zoo
Information and Reviews
- This is an old exhibit, however still captures the imagination of many visitors, especially kids. The informative displays and real animals make it an enjoyable experience. The exhibit also raises awareness about deforestation and conservation efforts.
- Starting from the Asia entrance is recommended for the best experience, with various attractions to see. Buying tickets in advance is advisable, as certain activities have limited availability. Be prepared to do a fair amount of walking or take advantage of the free shuttle train.
- Visitors praise the variety of animals and the overall experience, describing it as a great opportunity to see different species up close. The exhibit's design, though sometimes dark, adds to the authenticity of the environment.
- A visit to Madagascar at Bronx Zoo is worth the time, even with potential crowds. It offers a unique chance to observe lemurs, birds, tortoises, and other wildlife in a setting that mimics their natural habitat.
- Monday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
14. Ross Park Zoo
Information and Reviews
- The zoo is easy to navigate, well-shaded, and has a petting zoo for kids.
- Visitors can enjoy a quiet nature trail and various concessions throughout the zoo.
- Admission is affordable at $7.00, making it a great value for families and individuals.
Customer reviews reflect the positive experiences visitors have had at the Ross Park Zoo. One visitor mentioned the festive light show in October bringing a new level of enjoyment, while another praised the intricate display of Chinese lanterns. Families appreciated the variety of animals on display, the affordable prices, and the opportunity to support the zoo through season passes. Overall, the zoo offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife in a family-friendly environment.
- Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM
15. Zoo New York
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight a few key points:
- The zoo is a great place to visit for families with children, offering interactive exhibits and a fun environment.
- Visitors appreciate seeing native animals up close and learning about their stories.
- Some customers noted that certain exhibits were closed or not as well-maintained as expected, but overall, they enjoyed their visit.
- Guests have praised the friendly and helpful staff, making the experience more enjoyable.
With a rating of 4.2 and over 1000 reviews, Zoo New York remains a popular destination for nature lovers and families looking to connect with local wildlife in a safe and inclusive environment.
16. Harbor Seals
Information and Reviews
- It was disheartening to see some animals exhibiting signs of distress or boredom in Harbor Seals. They appeared to lack stimulation and enrichment in their enclosures.
- I don’t like seals.
- Nice.
- Свободу животным! Они не обязаны вас развлекать.
Despite the mixed reviews, Harbor Seals remains a popular destination for families looking to enjoy a day out with marine life.
Map of Zoos in New York State
New York State is home to a diverse array of zoos that showcase a wide variety of animals from around the world. Whether you're looking to see exotic wildlife or learn about local species, there is a zoo in New York State that will cater to your interests. Explore the map below to discover the location of each zoo.
What are some of the top zoos to visit in New York State?
New York State is home to several world-renowned zoos that offer a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Some of the top zoos to visit in the state include:
- The Bronx Zoo in New York City
- The Central Park Zoo in New York City
- The Buffalo Zoo in Buffalo
- The Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester
What conservation efforts are zoos in New York State involved in?
Zoos in New York State play a vital role in conservation efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats. Some of the conservation efforts that zoos in the state are involved in include:
- Breeding programs for endangered species
- Habitat restoration projects
- Public education and awareness programs
- Research initiatives to study and protect endangered species
Are zoos in New York State ethical and responsible in their treatment of animals?
In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny on the ethics and animal welfare practices of zoos. Zoos in New York State are subject to strict regulations and oversight to ensure that they are ethical and responsible in their treatment of animals. These regulations cover areas such as:
- Animal housing and enrichment
- Healthcare and veterinary care
- Behavioral management and training
- Conservation and research efforts
How do zoos in New York State contribute to education and conservation?
Zoos in New York State serve as important educational and conservation hubs, offering valuable opportunities for visitors to learn about wildlife and environmental conservation. Some of the ways in which zoos in the state contribute to education and conservation include:
- Interactive exhibits and informational signage
- Education programs for schools and the public
- Partnerships with conservation organizations
- Support for wildlife research and conservation projects

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