aventuro Back to map A
Zoos #3 in Buffalo, New York

The Buffalo Zoo

4.3 · 7,359 reviews
Educational and community-focused.
The Buffalo Zoo, 300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
Interesting facts
1

It is the third-oldest zoo in the United States, following only Philadelphia and Cincinnati.

2

The zoo sits on 23.5 acres of land originally designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

3

The M&T Bank Rainforest Falls exhibit utilizes a massive vertical structure to simulate a tropical ecosystem.

4

It remains one of the few urban zoos that successfully integrates Victorian-era architecture with modern conservation design.

5

The zoo is home to a breeding program for the critically endangered Matschie’s tree kangaroo.

Overview

Founded in 1875, the Buffalo Zoo is the third-oldest zoological park in the United States. Located within Delaware Park, it serves as a center for conservation, housing a diverse collection of exotic and endangered wildlife. Notable animal residents include Amur tigers, grizzly bears, and gorillas. The zoo maintains accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Its campus features historical architecture alongside modern, renovated habitats designed to support species-specific behaviors. It participates in various Species Survival Plan programs to assist in the recovery of threatened animals. The facility emphasizes educational programming for the Western New York region. Visitors can view the Arctic Edge exhibit, which provides an immersive look at polar bears and other cold-climate animals.

Photo spot

The glass viewing panel at the Arctic Edge polar bear habitat.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park features significant inclines and extensive pathways.

Check the daily keeper talk schedule upon arrival to observe animal training and feeding sessions.

Visit the indoor exhibits during colder months, as many outdoor animals may be moved to climate-controlled spaces.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit the entire facility in under an hour; the zoo layout is larger than it appears on a map.

Good to know

Operates daily year-round, but outdoor exhibit access is weather-dependent during winter months.

Etiquette

Do not feed or tap on animal glass enclosures; stay on marked paths to protect sensitive habitats.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn for lower crowds and active animals.
Address
The Buffalo Zoo, 300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
42.937, -78.852
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsArctic Edge, Rainforest Falls, and the Elephant House

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in late spring or early autumn for lower crowds and active animals..

The glass viewing panel at the Arctic Edge polar bear habitat.

Close by you'll find Delaware Park, Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House, Buffalo AKG Art Museum.