The zoo occupies the site of a former 1935 menagerie that was completely redesigned and reopened in 1993.
The central Sea Lion Court features an original 1930s-era limestone relief sculpture by Frederick Roth.
The zoo maintains a specialized breeding program for the endangered Pallas's cat.
The Animal Lifestyles exhibit utilizes climate-controlled glass habitats to showcase animals that require specific environmental conditions.
The Discovery Trail features 'hidden' viewing stations designed to help children spot animals camouflaged in their enclosures.
Prospect Park Zoo is a 12-acre facility located within Brooklyn's Prospect Park, operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society. It houses approximately 150 species ranging from sea lions and red pandas to Pallas's cats. The zoo is organized into distinct zones including the Sea Lion Court, Animal Lifestyles, and the Discovery Trail. It focuses on smaller-scale animal encounters and educational exhibits rather than large-mammal megafauna. The site features an interactive barnyard area for close-up animal interaction. It serves as a conservation-focused educational center for the surrounding Brooklyn community. The facility is fully integrated into the historic landscape of Prospect Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux.
The raised viewing platform overlooking the Sea Lion Court allows for eye-level photography of the sea lions in the water.
Visit the Sea Lion Court during feeding times to witness the animals being trained by keepers.
Check the daily event board near the entrance upon arrival to coordinate your visit with scheduled animal encounters.
Plan your visit to coincide with the Discovery Trail path, which is designed to be experienced sequentially.
Do not expect to see large African safari animals like elephants or giraffes, as the zoo focuses on smaller species.
Open daily year-round; may have adjusted operations during extreme weather events.
Maintain quiet voices near animal enclosures and do not feed or tap on the glass of exhibits.
