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Location
Visitor tip
Don't miss the scavenger hunt activity—it's a popular interactive experience that engages kids and comes with a small reward. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet when you arrive.
Best time
Visit during summer weekends for access to the turtle exhibit and animal encounter opportunities. The turtle area closes in winter, so plan accordingly if seeing turtles is a priority.
Visitor tip
The staff is exceptionally knowledgeable and actively present throughout exhibits. Don't hesitate to ask questions—they're noted as friendly, interactive, and genuinely helpful with visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Specialty
- Only reptile & amphibian zoo in Connecticut
- Collection Size
- Over 100 species of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish
- Facility Size
- 13,000 sq ft indoor + 4,000 sq ft seasonal outdoor habitat
What visitors say
The Reptile Center is wonderful. It's such a great experience for children and adults alike. It's relatively small with wide open spaces to keep the overwhelm at bay. It's easy to allow kids to run around a little with parental…
We saw the travelling program that they do, a few years back. It was great. This was well worth the trip for us. Knowledgeable and super friendly staff floating around and so many different animals/insects to see.
Excellent reptile and amphibian center, all the animals are taken well care of, all the staff is very nice and interactive with kids. Kids can do the scavenger hunt for a small reward. 1.5h is easily spent. Turtle area is closed off in…
From 501 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- Riverside Reptiles Education Center is the only reptile and amphibian zoo in Connecticut and New England
- The facility houses over 100 species of reptiles and amphibians including rare species like Green Anacondas, King Cobras, and Aldabra Giant Tortoises
- The center features a seasonal outdoor Turtle Terrace habitat that closes during winter months, requiring visitors to return in summer for full access
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