Bronx Zoo
One of the largest urban zoos in the world, whose parent society helped bring the American bison back from near extinction.
Updated 12 October 2026
The zoo opened in 1899 on 265 acres and is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, which does field work across dozens of countries. Its most consequential act was early: the American Bison Society, founded here in 1905 with the zoo's director and Theodore Roosevelt, bred bison at the zoo and shipped them west to restock the plains when the wild population had fallen to a few hundred animals. The zoo also has a history it now acknowledges directly - in 1906 it displayed Ota Benga, a Congolese man, in the primate house, and the society issued a formal apology in 2020. Congo Gorilla Forest, JungleWorld and the Bronx River running through are the main exhibits.
What to look for
- 265 acres of zoo - among the largest urban ones anywhere.
- The bison restocking programme - bred here and shipped west from 1907.
- Congo Gorilla Forest and JungleWorld - the major immersive exhibits.
- A history the zoo now names - including the 1906 display of Ota Benga.
When to go
April to October; many animals are indoors or off view in winter. A full day.
What to expect
It is very large and takes a full day with a lot of walking. Several exhibits cost extra beyond basic admission. Winter closes much of it. Wednesday reduced admission is crowded and needs a ticket booked in advance.
Nearby
The New York Botanical Garden is across the road; Arthur Avenue is west.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q739792, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Bronx Zoo
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A zoom camera or long lens - Animals rarely come close; reach beats megapixels. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
