Explore New York: The Little Wonders of Central Park Zoo

You can find more grandiose zoos in other cities across the U.S. Zoo Atlanta, the Philadelphia Zoo and even the Bronx Zoo in New York are a few that come to mind.

But if you’re looking for a wonderful diversion in the heart of New York City, there are few places as special as Central Park Zoo. In a matter of minutes, you go from the busy streets of Midtown to watching a waddle of penguins, a troop of mischievous monkeys and a pair of oh-so-cute red pandas.

The Central Park Zoo is located on the southeast corner of Central Park, so it’s easily accessible from the Midtown or Times Square area. It’s a small zoo — just 6.5 acres. In some ways, the size and proximity to other attractions makes the Central Park Zoo an ideal excursion.

Wild Animals and Children’s Petting Zoo

Central Park Zoo is split into two parts, which are separated by a public walkway and can only be entered once each with a ticket. The main zoo is the southernmost entrance. You’re greeted right off the entrance by the sea lions outdoor tank.

Other highlights of the main zoo include the penguins & puffins indoor area, grizzly bears, snow leopards, outdoor snow monkey rocks and an indoor tropic zone with a host of colorful birds. The indoor exhibits and a covered walkway for part of the zoo make it a great option during light rain or colder weather.

The Tisch Children’s Zoo is just a short walk north of the main zoo entrance and uses the same ticket. You can take a look at some ducks and cavies, the world’s largest rodent. You also can feed some friendly sheep and goats. Bring some dollar bills or quarters to get little nuggets of food for them.

Don’t Miss the Delacorte Clock

You also do not want to miss the Delacorte Clock. It’s on the pathway between the main zoo and the children’s zoo. The clock rings every half-hour and then plans a children’s song.

A pair of monkeys on top ring the bell with their hammers while a range of other animals circle the clock to the tune. The ringing of the clock always draws a crowd and mesmerizes children. It’s outside the zoo entrances, so you can enjoy the clock even without a ticket.

Other Nearby Attractions

The Central Park Zoo also is conveniently located within walking distance to plenty of other attractions. These include:

• Bill Johnson Playground: This is a special playground even by Central Park standards. It features a 45-foot granite slide carved in the rocky outcropping. From the children’s zoo, just keep walking north on the pathway and underneath the archway. You’ll see it on your right.
• Model Sailboating & Bethesda Terrace: Just a few blocks north (at 72nd Street), you’ll find the Conservatory Water with model sailboating, except for during the winter months of the year. The Loeb Boathouse and iconic Bethesda Terrace are just a short walk west into the park. You’ll instantly recognize the area from postcards and movies.
• Apple Store & Columbus Circle: Outside of the park, you can easily walk to the 5th Avenue Apple Store on the southeast corner with its cutting edge glass cube structure. On the opposite southwest corner of Central Park, you’ll find the Shops at Columbus Circle. The Shops are great indoor place to grab a snack or full dinner. They also have public restrooms upstairs.

If you’re looking for other dining options, you can grab a sandwich, soup or salad at the Pret A Manger (6th Ave & 59th). There are also plenty of casual and upscale restaurants on the east side once you get past Madison Avenue. Keep in mind the COVID has forced closures or limited hours, but you’ll still find some open for service.

We hope this helps, whether you’re visiting New York or exploring new parts of the city. If you have questions or thoughts for others, please post away!