Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo is home to over 130 species of wildlife from around the world
Managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center is part of an integrated network of four New York zoos and the New York Aquarium established to advance wildlife conservation awareness and promote the study of zoology.
Established in 1860, the grounds have since undergone extensive renovations replacing the zoo's old fashioned cages with more natural habitats. Just a few meters from the hustle and bustle of 5th Avenue, the Central Park Wildlife Center and the Tisch Children's Zoo are home to over 130 species from all from all over the world including polar bears, sea lions, snow leopards, reptiles and exotic birds. The Central Park Wildlife Center also houses an indoor rainforest exhibit with viewing platforms at various levels offering a unique perspective into the ecosystem beneath the canopy.
Animal lovers of all ages will enjoy the daily Harbour Seal, Penguin and Sea Lion feedings and a variety of small group tours and educational programs conducted by Central Park Wildlife Center staff. Limited opportunities to get up close and personal with the animals as a junior zookeeper or animal trainer are available for an additional fee. The 4-D Theatre is now showing Planet Earth: Ice Worlds, a BBC Earth film exploring the Arctic and Antarctic.
Nearby attractions inclue : The Frick Collection, Whitney Museum of American Art, The Met, American Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesCentral Park Zoo Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Address: New York, NY 10021, USA
Phone: (212) 439-6500
Official Website: Central Park Zoo
Central Park Zoo Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
What I really loved about this zoo is that it isn’t overwhelming, and it genuinely feels like the people caring for the animals are passionate about what they do.
The zoo isn’t massive, but that’s part of its charm. The animals were surprisingly active, especially the sea lions, who looked absolutely thrilled to interact with visitors.
I’d highly recommend this for families with young children, and for anyone looking to enjoy a quieter, relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Shane J - a month ago
The zoo is small, which makes it a great break for kids who have been sightseeing "adult" things for days in NY.
The 4D movie experience is included with your admission and it is pretty cool.
When you catch the seals feeding time, you get a cute little show and an educational moment.
Carolina Cohen - 2 weeks ago
You can feel that the people here care.
The paths are clean, the penguins are happy celebrities behind glass, and the kids all press their faces to the windows like this is magic — and in some ways, it still is.
But then you stop at the snow leopards.
Or the sea lions circling in their small pool again and again.
And suddenly, it’s not just a zoo anymore — it’s a quiet moral question with fur and feathers.
You see the effort.
You feel the limits.
And you start to understand why the animals in the movie Madagascar wanted to escape.
Not because the zoo is cruel — it isn’t — but because freedom doesn’t fit inside even the kindest walls.
There’s beauty here: the skyline behind the trees, the laughter of kids feeding goats, the small oasis of calm in the middle of Manhattan chaos.
But there’s also something bittersweet — like seeing a wild dream wearing a polite uniform.
If you visit, come with curiosity, not judgment.
Enjoy the care, acknowledge the cages, and maybe let the movie make a little more sense.
Arian Rassoul - 3 months ago
This charming and small zoo nestled within the park is a delightful place to visit. The diverse variety of animals is truly captivating, and my favorites include the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Sea Lions, Grizzly Bears, and Penguins. The zoo also have a remarkable variety of birds. This time, we had the privilege of observing the animals up close, creating unforgettable moments. The Sea Lion feeding show is an absolute delight, as these playful creatures perform impressive tricks with their trainers. The zoo is impeccably maintained and spotlessly clean, making it an oasis amidst the bustling city of Manhattan. A gift shop is conveniently located, offering a wide selection of souvenirs. The friendly and welcoming staff adds to the overall experience, making it a highly recommended destination for animal lovers!
Adriana De Pitkin - 3 months ago
What a great zoo… it’s had one of the most beautiful Avery‘s that I’ve ever seen and saw my first snow cat… staff was super friendly, and the place was kept immaculate.
Martin Zidtowecki - a week ago
![]()
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| N, R, or W | 59th Street / 5th Avenue | 5 minutes |
| F | 63rd Street / Lexington Avenue | 12 minutes |
How to get to Central Park Zoo by Subway
Take the N, R, or W train to 59th Street / 5th Avenue, head north on Grand Army Plaza and continue on East Drive to the zoo entrance or the F train to 63rd Street / Lexington Avenue, head northwest on 63rd St towards Lexington Avenue, turn left at 5th Avenue, turn right at East 61st Street, turn right on park pathway leading to zoo entrance (12 minutes)
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Central Park Zoo:
Photo Gallery
-
Polar Circle at the Central Park Wildlife Centre cc licensed photo by La Citta Vita -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: edenpictures - cc license via Flickr

