Why the Bronx Zoo is an Awesome Family Destination

I’ve always loved going to the zoo, and I was so excited that having a child provided a reason to visit each year. My son is 2 and we’ve already been to the Bronx Zoo three times (plus other zoos in the NY metro area—told you I loved them!). At the Bronx Zoo animal enthusiasts will love walking around one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the U.S. and exploring award-winning exhibits. The diversity of exhibits and animals is educational and entertaining as you learn about the many different animals all over the globe. The various animal exhibits include such environments as African Plains, Congo Gorilla Forest, Big Bears, the Butterfly Garden, Tiger Mountain, Jungle World, World of Reptiles, and more. There are also fun experiences such as the Bug Carousel, Nature Trek, and Zoo Shuttle.

Many exhibits are designed in a “naturalistic setting”, meaning you can view the animals cage- free. Instead, you are separated by other barriers such as deep moats and fences. With more than 4,000 animals, your family is bound to spot some of your own favorites. Read on to learn more about the zoo and exhibits you won’t want to miss.

6 Special Bronx Zoo Exhibits You Don’t Want to Miss!

WIth more than 6,000 species across 265 acres, there’s plenty to see at the Bronx Zoo, but these are the 6 things you won’t want to miss:

1. Children’s Zoo

Ideal for young children, you can walk around and explore smaller species up close, such as a giant anteater, prairie dogs, a sloth, alpacas, and a farmyard (where you can pet the sheep, goats and donkeys). Children can even feed some of these animals, which is always a nice treat after viewing many other animals in the zoo from a distance. The Children’s Zoo is open seasonally.

2. Congo Gorilla Forest

This is one my favorite spots in the Bronx Zoo. I love monkeys and primates of all kinds, so I find it a real treat to be able to walk through a gorilla habitat and observe the gorillas as they come up close to the glass, be playful with one another, or just stare at you thoughtfully as though perhaps we humans are the ones on display. The Bronx Zoo is a major contributor to conservation efforts worldwide, and I’ve always loved reading about its efforts in this exhibit.

3. Butterfly Garden

You don’t want to miss this beautiful butterfly conservatory. You walk through a small country-esque garden and enter the conservatory where the butterflies flutter around you amongst beautiful flowers and a koi pond. The Butterfly Garden is a seasonal exhibit.

4. Bug Carousel

You and your child can ride on seats shaped like insects. Even my 2-year-old was allowed on as I stood alongside him. It’s a fun little ride that can add to your memory of the family trip to the zoo.

5. Wild Asia Monorail

You definitely don’t want to miss the monorail! Not only is it a fun ride, but tour guides will point out animals along the way such as red pandas, elephants, and rhinos. Some of the animals can only be seen at the zoo if you take the ride. Note: Strollers are not permitted on the monorail, but it is accessible for wheelchairs up to 26 inches wide. The monorail is another seasonal attraction.

6. Nature Trek

This climbing structure lets you climb through tunnels, across rope bridges, and more as they make your way through a few challenges as if you were on an adventurous TV game show (not to be confused with the Treetop Adventure, which is an aerial ropes course and zip line). You’ll get a cool birds-eye view of the zoo from above as you climb around and can pause in a human-sized bird nest! For your own safety, make sure you wear sneakers. There is also a partially wheelchair accessible area with different ramps that challenge the user. This is for visitors ages 3 and older, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

A Hidden Gem at the Bronx Zoo

I personally love the retro vibes and architecture in the Astor Court area, the oldest section of the Bronx Zoo, which still houses some of the original buildings and a historic sea lion pool featuring California sea lions (the sea lions were one of the first species acquired in 1899!). It makes me feel like I’ve stepped into the pages of Curious George Visits the Zoo as I look through the old cages, especially in the Zoo Center, which houses white-headed capuchins behind the old Monkey House.

Livestream Videos at the Bronx Zoo

Love the zoo but can’t get there right now? You can spy on the animals from the comfort of your own home with live cameras. Don’t forget to turn your volume up! At the time of writing the cameras were live 10am-4pm ET. Check the website for the latest timing.

Special Events at the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo regularly hosts special events throughout the year, including a Run for the Wild 5K to raise funds for animal conservation efforts, Boo at the Zoo during Halloween, and Holiday Lights during the winter months.

Tip About Food

Visiting the Bronx Zoo with kids can take up half your day, if not more, and what family outing doesn’t involve needing to stop for meals or snacks? You can bring snacks and drinks in with you, or you can buy boxed lunches at the Dancing Crane Café. The café has a picnic area with tables, and you’ll also find benches throughout the zoo, making it easy to picnic anywhere or to take a rest from all the walking around. Plus, there are water fountains (don’t forget your reusable water bottle!) and hand sanitizer stations throughout the park.