About Central Park Zoo

Small zoo with penguins & sea lions. Set within Central Park, this small zoo features penguins, sea lions, monkeys & a petting zoo.

💬 What Parents Say

• 🕐Arrive by 2:00 PM to maximize your visit since last entry is 4:00 PM and the zoo closes at 5:00 PM. Plan for 2 hours to comfortably explore all exhibits without feeling rushed, as the compact size makes it manageable in a single visit.
• 💡Don't miss the Sea Lion feeding show and the Tropic Zone exhibit. These are consistently highlighted as must-see attractions—the Tropic Zone especially offers an immersive rainforest experience that contrasts dramatically with the Manhattan setting.
• 💡Check the zoo's real-time schedule before visiting to confirm all animal feeding times and keeper talk schedules. The zoo opens at 10:00 AM, making a weekday morning visit ideal for viewing active animals and avoiding crowds.
• 💡The zoo's compact size and well-maintained facilities make it stroller-friendly for families with young children. You can see popular animals like Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, Penguins, and Grizzly Bears up close without lengthy walking distances.
• 💡Consider participating in special events like 'Make Tracks for Red Pandas' or 'Badge for Earth Day' to enhance the educational experience. These programs offer deeper engagement with conservation efforts and animal learning opportunities beyond standard exhibits.

Hours