The zoo was a founding institution for the Wildlife Conservation Society, originally incorporated as the New York Zoological Society in 1895.
The Congo Gorilla Forest is one of the largest breeding groups of western lowland gorillas in North America.
The zoo includes the historic Astor Court, which features original 19th-century architecture that has been meticulously preserved.
The facility functions as a research center for global conservation, tracking animal populations and migration patterns worldwide.
The Bronx River flows directly through the zoo grounds, creating unique riparian habitats for native wildlife.
It is one of the few urban zoos that successfully maintains a large, self-sustaining population of various endangered species.
The World of Birds exhibit is housed in a building designed to mimic a natural tropical forest environment.
The zoo's collection includes the rare Himalayan snow leopard, which is showcased in a specialized climate-controlled habitat.
The Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States, spanning 265 acres of parklands and naturalistic habitats. It houses over 6,000 animals representing more than 700 species from around the globe. The zoo is managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, which focuses on global animal conservation and habitat protection. Key attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, which spans 6.5 acres, and the Wild Asia monorail, providing elevated views of Asian elephants and tigers. The site is situated within Bronx Park, adjacent to the New York Botanical Garden. It features historic Beaux-Arts architecture dating back to its 1899 founding, particularly in the Rainey Memorial Gate area. The zoo provides diverse terrain ranging from wetlands along the Bronx River to densely wooded areas.
The Rainey Memorial Gate, featuring elaborate bronze sculptures and historic architectural details.
Prioritize visiting the Congo Gorilla Forest early, as the queue length increases significantly by midday.
Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes, as the park covers significant ground with varied terrain.
Bring a refillable water bottle to use at the multiple hydration stations located throughout the park.
Attempting to see the entire 265-acre site in a single day, which often leads to exhaustion; focus on specific zones instead.
Open year-round, though some outdoor exhibits may have limited access during extreme winter weather conditions.
Do not tap on glass exhibits, refrain from feeding any animals, and keep noise levels low near enclosures to avoid distressing wildlife.
