Central Park Zoo: Entry Ticket

Additional Information & Description

Central Park Zoo brings close-up wildlife encounters to the heart of New York City. Its 6.5-acre setting gives the visit an intimate scale, with animals rather than sheer size providing the appeal. This is also the zoo that inspired the animated film Madagascar.

Snow leopards, penguins and tropical birds

Snow leopards, bears and sea lions are among the animals you can see here, alongside playful penguins and colorful tropical birds. Walk through lush gardens as you explore the zoo’s varied wildlife, with opportunities to observe the animals up close. The visit also introduces the zoo’s wildlife conservation efforts, adding an educational dimension to the encounters. Bring a camera if you want to capture the animals you see along the route.

From a menagerie to a city zoo

Built in 1859, Central Park Zoo began as a humble menagerie with just a few swans and a bear. That modest beginning gives context to the variety of exotic animals visitors can observe today. The zoo’s history is a distinct part of its appeal: a long-established animal attraction within Central Park, rather than a recently created addition.

Three parts to your ticket

Your ticket includes admission to Central Park Zoo, entrance to Tisch Children’s Zoo and one visit to the 4-D Theater. Beyond the main zoo, the children’s zoo provides another place to explore, while the theater adds a separate experience to the animal visit. A guided tour is not included, so the ticket covers access to these attractions rather than a guide-led itinerary.

Location and accessible entry

Central Park Zoo is on East 64th Street in New York. The venue is wheelchair accessible. Tickets are delivered instantly and can be presented on a smartphone, giving you a digital ticket for your visit.