The zoo's carousel is a 1918 indoor antique featuring 44 hand-painted figures.
It is the only zoo in Connecticut officially accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Rainforest Building mimics a tropical ecosystem, housing golden lion tamarins and various reptiles.
The zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for several endangered animals, including Amur leopards and red wolves.
The park land was gifted to the city by James W. Beardsley, a wealthy local farmer, in 1878.
The zoo features a 'New World' focus, excluding traditional zoo animals like lions or elephants to concentrate on Western Hemisphere species.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is the state's only accredited zoo, focusing exclusively on animals native to North and South America. Located within the 124-acre Beardsley Park, the facility hosts over 300 animals across various exhibits. Key attractions include the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat, the Pampas Plains, and the Rainforest Building. The zoo operates an active conservation program and maintains an AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accreditation. Visitors can explore the Hoofstock trail, which features bison and pronghorn. The zoo also contains a historical carousel that serves as a central recreational feature. It functions as an educational center with programs centered on endangered species and regional biodiversity.
The interior of the historic carousel building or the elevated viewing deck at the Pampas Plains exhibit.
Wear comfortable, durable walking shoes as the park terrain includes inclines and gravel paths.
Check the zoo's online calendar for daily animal feeding demonstrations before arrival.
Bring a refillable water bottle to use at the park's hydration stations.
Do not attempt to interact with the free-roaming peacocks that often navigate the park grounds.
Open daily year-round, though some outdoor exhibits may have limited access during extreme winter weather.
Maintain a quiet volume near animal enclosures, do not feed the animals, and remain on marked pathways.
