White tiger resting on rocks at Central Park Zoo.
Penguin standing on rocks at Central Park Zoo.
Snow leopard crouching at Central Park Zoo.
Keel-billed toucan perched at Central Park Zoo enclosure.
Sea lions swimming in Central Park Zoo exhibit, New York City, with visitors watching.
Delacorte Clock at Central Park Zoo entrance with animal sculptures.
Penguins standing on rocks at Central Park Zoo exhibit.

Central Park Zoo Tickets, New York

New York
Zoos
Google Verified Seller

Duration: 2 hours

Get your booking confirmed instantly

Explore Central Park Zoo in New York and explore wildlife right at the heart of Manhattan. This compact attraction is ideal for families, animal enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to the city. Thanks to its location within Central Park, you can easily add a visit to your itinerary alongside other park activities.

From an elevation of over 250 meters above sea level at the Grizzly Bear Overlook to lush rainforests in the Tropic Zone, Central Park Zoo presents incredible exhibits such as the Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard and Polar Circle.

Experience engaging encounters with animals during Penguin and Sea Lion Feedings where staff share fascinating facts while feeding these delightful creatures.

The 4-D Theater offers a thrilling wildlife film experience before you explore the vibrant Tropic Zone, home to an array of colorful birds and reptiles in lush surroundings.

At Central Park Zoo's Tisch Children's Zoo, children can interact with friendly farm animals. Additionally, visiting the Grizzly Bear Overlook provides excellent views of these majestic bears at play.

Did you know? Since its opening as a menagerie housing just a few animals back in 1861, Central Park Zoo has transformed into today’s modern zoo.

Admission to Central Park Zoo

One ticket for the 4D Theater show

Access to these exhibits:

(based on option selected) Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard exhibit

(on the cruise) The Central Garden & Sea Lion Pool

Entry into Grizzly Bear & Treena’s Overlook area

Use of Polar Circle section

Ticket for Temperate Territory zone

Access to Tisch Children’s Zoo

Coverage of Tropic Zone: The Rainforest

Individual Costs

White tiger resting on rocks at Central Park Zoo.

White tiger resting on rocks at Central Park Zoo.

Your experience at Central Park Zoo

Located in the heart of Manhattan within New York City’s iconic Central Park lies the compact yet fascinating Central Park Zoo. This attraction is perfect for families, animal enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to explore a world of wildlife.

Getting started

Begin your visit by entering with your ticket. The zoo's central location within Central Park makes it convenient to incorporate into any itinerary — whether you're planning a brief stop or combining the experience with a stroll through the park.

What to expect: Diverse animal habitats

The Central Park Zoo showcases animals from across the globe in thoughtfully designed exhibits. Wander through and discover snow leopards residing in the Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard habitat, observe sea lions at play within the Central Garden pool, or enjoy a view of grizzly bears from Treena’s Overlook. The Polar Circle offers a glimpse into how penguins adapt to icy conditions, while the Temperate Territory invites exploration and the lush Tropic Zone rainforest teems with vibrant birds and reptiles.

Features

  • Diverse wildlife habitats in Manhattan: Experience exhibits that house animals from around the world such as snow leopards, grizzly bears, penguins, red pandas, and tropical birds — all situated within Central Park.
  • Penguin & sea lion feedings: Attend scheduled feeding times to watch these marine creatures while zookeepers provide fascinating insights into their behaviors.
  • Engaging theater experience: Enjoy a wildlife film enhanced with sensory effects like motion and sound, creating an interactive dimension for your visit.
  • Tisch Children’s Zoo: A hands-on area where young visitors can interact with friendly farm animals and learn about wildlife in a welcoming environment.
  • Compact & family-friendly design: The zoo's small scale allows you to explore comfortably without feeling rushed, making it ideal for families, newcomers, or those on tight schedules.
Penguin standing on rocks at Central Park Zoo.

Penguin standing on rocks at Central Park Zoo.

Snow leopard crouching at Central Park Zoo.

Snow leopard crouching at Central Park Zoo.

Keel-billed toucan perched at Central Park Zoo enclosure.

Keel-billed toucan perched at Central Park Zoo enclosure.

What to bring
  • Your ticket (digital or printed) for entry is required.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for the zoo and Central Park paths.
  • Clothing appropriate for current weather conditions, as most areas are outdoors.
  • A camera or smartphone to capture animal sightings and scenic views will be useful.

What’s not allowed
  • Outside food and beverages may face restrictions in certain areas.
  • Pets aren't permitted except for registered service animals.
  • Drones, tripods, and professional photography equipment require prior approval to use.
  • Smoking and vaping are prohibited across the zoo grounds.

Accessibility
  • The zoo offers wheelchair accessibility with paved pathways in most areas.
  • You'll find accessible restrooms on-site.
  • Strollers can be used, though access may be limited in some indoor or narrow spaces.

Additional information
  • The 4-D Theater features motion effects, loud sounds, fog, and flashing lights; it might not suit guests with sensory sensitivities or certain medical conditions.
  • There are no storage lockers available on-site—travel light is advised.
  • Adult supervision for children at all times is necessary.
  • Feeding schedules may change due to animal care needs and weather conditions.

Sea lions swimming in Central Park Zoo exhibit, New York City, with visitors watching.

Sea lions swimming in Central Park Zoo exhibit, New York City, with visitors watching.

Delacorte Clock at Central Park Zoo entrance with animal sculptures.

Delacorte Clock at Central Park Zoo entrance with animal sculptures.

Book your visit in advance during peak season to avoid sold-out sessions and ensure a smooth entry into Central Park Zoo.

Come prepared with comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring both the zoo exhibits and nearby paths within Central Park.

If planning multiple visits, consider starting at the furthest attraction from your accommodation or next stop to optimize your itinerary.

Customer Reviews

Discover what our customers are saying about their experiences

4.3

Loading reviews...

5
-
4
-
3
-
2
-
1
-

Operating hours

Central Park Zoo

Monday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Friday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday
10:00am - 5:30pm
Sunday
10:00am - 5:30pm
  • Timings are displayed in the venue's time zone.

By proceeding with any booking via Staybook, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to all the .

FAQs

Pets are not permitted except for registered service animals.
You can enjoy a great view of these impressive bears from Grizzly Bear & Treena’s Overlook.
Outside food and beverages may be restricted in certain areas of the zoo.
Bring your valid ticket (digital or printed), comfortable walking shoes for exploring the zoo and nearby paths, weather-appropriate clothing as most areas are outdoors, and a camera or smartphone to capture animal sightings and scenic views.
The zoo is centrally located within Central Park, making it easy to include in your day whether you're planning a quick visit or pairing it with a walk through the park.
You'll discover diverse animal habitats including the Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard, Grizzly Bear & Treena’s Overlook, Sea Lion Pool, Polar Circle, and the Tropic Zone rainforest.
The Tisch Children’s Zoo offers children the chance to meet friendly farm animals and explore in an engaging environment.
Yes! Enjoy fun interactions during Penguin and Sea Lion Feedings where staff share great facts while feeding these animals.
Your ticket includes access to exhibits like the Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard, Central Garden & Sea Lion Pool, Grizzly Bear & Treena’s Overlook, Polar Circle, Temperate Territory, Tisch Children's Zoo, and Tropic Zone: The Rainforest. You also get 1 entry to a 4D Theater show.
Central Park Zoo opened in 1861 as a menagerie with just a few animals, evolving into a modern zoo over time.

You might also like ...

Explore more experiences in New York.

From
2,145per person
1

Were Online

How may

Why travellers trust Staybook

We've served 50 million+ guests and are here to serve you better

Premium support, curated experiences, and trusted reviews so every trip feels effortless.

Guests hosted
50 million+

Happy travellers across 12,000+ carefully curated experiences worldwide.

In the media
Featured brands

Recognised and recommended by leading travel and lifestyle publishers.

Support
24×7 help center

Live chat with local experts before, during, and after your experience.