From snow leopards to tropical birds, the zoo houses over 130 species of animals from diverse ecosystems, giving you a chance to see creatures from around the globe in beautifully designed habitats at the heart of New York.
There’s always something new and exciting to explore at the Central Park Zoo’s special events like 4D theater experiences, penguin feeding, and sea lion feeding that promote wildlife conservation and awareness.
Picturesque location
Nestled within Central Park, the zoo is a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Manhattan surrounded by nature, allowing you to enjoy both wildlife and the beauty of one of New York's most famous parks.
Family-friendly
With interactive exhibits like the Tisch Children’s Zoo and daily animal feedings, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained and engaged.
Convenient access
Located at the southeast corner of Central Park, the zoo is easily accessible via public transportation or by walking through the beautiful park itself, making it a convenient stop during your NYC adventure.
Here are the best parts of your zoo visit
Sea Lion Pool
This central attraction features playful sea lions performing during daily feedings, delighting audiences with their acrobatics and fun antics.
Plan your visit
From March 29 to November 2, 2024: 10am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, 10am to 5:30pm on weekends & holidays
From November 3, 2024 to March 2025: 10am to 4:30pm
Last entry: 1 hour before closing
Animal exhibits close half an hour before zoo closing time.
By car: Central Park Zoo is approximately 18 miles from John F. Kennedy International Airport.**** There’s no on-site parking at the zoo, but nearby parking garages are a great option. The closest is SP+ Parking, just an 11-minute walk away.
Wheelchair accessible: All buildings and exhibits at the zoo are wheelchair accessible with ramps and wide pathways.
Wheelchair available: A limited number of free wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Elevator access: There is elevator access to go to the Tropic Zone mezzanine for easy navigation.
Strollers allowed: You can bring strollers with you, but some areas may require you to keep the strollers outside.
Service animals allowed: Only trained service animals are permitted following ADA regulations.
Kids play area: The Tisch Children’s Zoo features a dedicated play area for kids to enjoy.
Toilets: Restrooms are available throughout the zoo for visitor convenience.
First aid: First aid services are available on-site for any medical emergencies.
Souvenir shop: A gift shop is located within the zoo, offering various animal-themed merchandise.
Dining outlets: On-site dining options include cafes with snacks and meals for visitors.
Information desk: An information desk is located at the entrance to assist visitors with inquiries.
Lost and found: A lost and found service is available at the information desk for misplaced items.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the zoo, but there are plenty of dining options on-site.
Smoking is prohibited throughout the zoo.
Pets are not permitted, except for service animals.
Children below the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone above 18 years old at all times.
Do not feed the animals at the zoo or throw things inside their habitats.
Dancing Crane Cafe
Inside Central Park Zoo, you can refuel at the Dancing Crane Cafe, which serves a variety of fast food options including Chicken Strips and Double Cheeseburgers, snacks like French Fries and Pretzels, beverages, and desserts in both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Your trip to the Central Park Zoo is incomplete without taking home a piece of your wild adventure in the middle of New York City. Head over to the gift shop and browse through its range of unique and wild items, including plush toys, children's books, games, and other animal-themed souvenirs to pick the perfect keepsake to take with you. During busy months, there’s even a gift cart stationed outside for added convenience.
After your day at the zoo, make your way to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and let the inner art connoisseur in you out! The museum’s vast collection of modern and contemporary art features works by renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh and Andy Warhol. MoMA is a 14-minute walk from the zoo.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Down the road from the Central Park Zoo, a 20-minute walk away, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum’s diverse collection of over 1.5 million works that span 5,000 years of history includes everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces.
Top of the Rock
While you’re in the thick of things in Midtown Manhattan, make your way to one of the most popular observation decks in the city just a short walk from the zoo. Top of the Rock, located 18 minutes away from the zoo, atop Rockefeller Center in New York City, offers 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline where you can spot landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Frequently asked questions about Central Park Zoo tickets
Yes, tickets to Central Park Zoo are timed. You must reserve a specific entry time in advance and enter the zoo within one hour of your selected time slot.
Central Park Zoo tickets grant you access to all the main exhibits, including the Sea Lion Pool, Snow Leopard exhibit, and more.
Yes, your ticket covers entry to both the main zoo and the Tisch Children's Zoo.
Yes, separate tickets are required for special events held at Central Park Zoo like for the 4-D Theater experience, seasonal events, or programs and educational programs.
Children under 3 years old do not need a ticket and can enter for free.
You cannot reschedule your Central Park Zoo ticket for another day or get a refund, as all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. If you are unable to attend on your selected date, you may share your tickets with a friend or family member to use.
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