Central Park Zoo

The Central Park Zoo is home to over 130 species of wildlife from around the world

One of many residents living at the Central Park Zoo
One of many residents living at the Central Park Zoo cc licensed photo by Stig Nygaard

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

Official Website: Central Park Zoo

Fee: Yes

Closed Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm

Category: Zoos

Address: 64TH St And Fifth Ave
New York, NY 10021

Phone: (212) 439-6500

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
3.5 out of 5 3.5 Star Rating
Based on 563 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

5 Star Rating I came here with my family and we had a great time. We usually go to the Bronx zoo but was able to access Central Park zoo with a promotion my sister had.... Read More

Abbey R. Mar-11-2023

3 Star Rating Before coming here, you should lower your expectations. This is not some large massive zoo. New York City already has one and it's the Bronx Zoo. The... Read More

Tyler L. Feb-15-2023

5 Star Rating I feel this zoo is the middle whereas it's not too big , packed with people and crazy like Bronx Zoo and not too quiet like Queens Zoo. Comfortable to walk... Read More

James C. Jan-18-2023

Accommodations near Central Park Zoo:

Directions

Subway Line Nearest Station Walking Time
N, R, or W59th Street / 5th Avenue5 minutes
F63rd Street / Lexington Avenue12 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.

Load Interactive Map
Finding Your Route - Please Wait

Photo Gallery

Video


Enjoy some of the sights and sounds at the Central Park Zoo in this video

Visiting New York City?
Here's why we use Booking.com for our hotel bookings.
Best Selection
Daily Deals
Price Matching
Pay at the Hotel
24/7 Support
Share on Pinterest
Share on Pinterest
Help us grow! Please Share
Thanks for Visiting!