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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Bronx Zoo Summary
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| Public website: | bronxzoo.com |
United States – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
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| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Bronx Zoo, United States
Open every day of the year; closing time is earlier in winter, around 4:30 pm
Some outdoor exhibits, rides and the Zoo Shuttle run only in the warmer months, roughly April to October
Don't miss
- 🐦 Stroll through the rainforest exhibit, marvel at exotic birds
- 🦒 Feed giraffes at the feeding station during midday
- ☕️ Explore the interactive zoo café for local treats
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! The Bronx Zoo welcomes visitors with over 600 species spread across more than 250 acres. It stands as one of the largest urban zoos in the United States. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, aiming to connect people with wildlife in meaningful ways. Walking through its paths feels like stepping into different ecosystems without leaving the city.
Key attractions include the Tiger Mountain exhibit where big cats roam amid rocky terrain and dense foliage. The Congo Gorilla Forest provides a close look at primates moving naturally within their habitat. A children’s area called Wild Asia features playful otters and curious monkeys along winding trails. Each zone is designed to reflect natural settings while keeping visitor safety in mind.
Beyond animal displays the zoo runs programs that teach about environmental stewardship. Guided tours explain how species adapt to changing climates and human impact. Seasonal events such as nighttime walks or behind-the-scenes talks let guests explore deeper into conservation topics. The zoo also supports global projects aimed at protecting endangered animals in their native regions.
Visitors can expect clean facilities with clear signage guiding them through each section. Food options range from quick snacks to sit-down meals and rest areas are placed throughout for comfort. Public transport connects the zoo to Manhattan and other boroughs making it reachable without a car. Whether you seek education or simple relaxation the Bronx Zoo delivers both in an accessible urban setting.
Why travel to Bronx Zoo?
Knowledge before you go
- Arrive early; Bronx Zoo opens at 10 AM and crowds grow quickly.
- Purchase a timed-entry ticket online to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Use the free shuttle bus from nearby subway stations to reach the zoo entrance without parking hassles.
- Explore the African Plains exhibit during mid-morning for cooler temperatures and active animal sightings.
How to travel to Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo in New York City is accessible via several transportation methods. The nearest subway station is the 2/5 train at 174th Street, with additional service from the B, D and 6 lines to nearby stations like 149th Street–Grand Concourse. Bus routes such as the M60, Bx26 and Bx12 provide local access. For drivers, major roads include the Major Deegan Expressway (I-95) and Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95), with parking available at designated lots near the zoo entrance. The area is well-connected to Manhattan via public transit or car, ensuring convenient entry for visitors.
Access summary
- From JFK (JFK): AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then subway 7‑line to Bronx Zoo (30–45 min).
- From LaGuardia (LGA): Bus Q70 to Pelham Bay Park, walk to zoo (25–35 min).
- By ferry from Manhattan’s Battery Park: 20‑minute ride to Staten Island, then bus to zoo.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo sits in a suburban‑style part of the borough, so lodging ranges from modest budget inns to upscale boutique hotels within a 15‑minute drive. Many travelers choose family‑friendly motels along major arteries like Webster Avenue or the Grand Concourse, offering reliable rates and easy access to public transit. For those seeking higher comfort, several mid‑range hotels in nearby Pelham Bay provide spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast and free parking, making them popular among visitors with children. The area is also known for its historic bed‑and‑breakfasts that blend New York charm with local character, often featuring garden patios or rooftop terraces overlooking the city skyline. Whether you prefer a simple stay or a more luxurious retreat, the neighborhood offers diverse options to suit every budget and taste.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for Bronx Zoo
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
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Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🍫
Energy snacks
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🧥
Light jacket
🎒
Small rucksack
🎫
Advance tickets or bookings
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Map or GPS device
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Power bank
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Basic first aid kit
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Sun hat
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Travel eSIM
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Universal travel adaptor
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Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 3% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend around the same on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to USD) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Bronx Zoo maintains high safety standards: well‑lit pathways, frequent security patrols and clear emergency signage. Staff are trained in first aid and animal enclosures are secure. Visitors should stay on marked trails, keep valuables close and follow staff instructions for a safe visit.
Accessibility
Bronx Zoo offers many accessible features: wheelchair‑friendly paths, elevators and a dedicated accessibility desk. However, some older exhibits lack ramps and crowding can hinder mobility. Plan visits during off‑peak hours and request assistance in advance for a smoother experience.
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