About Utica Zoo

Year-round destination with 200+ animals. Small year-round zoo featuring over 200 animals plus guided tours & kids' programs.

💬 What Parents Say

• 🕐Visit early morning to catch the lions roaring and enjoy the zoo with fewer crowds. The zoo opens at 10am and is generally not overcrowded, making it ideal for a peaceful experience.
• 💡Plan for 1.5-3 hours to see all exhibits. The zoo is compact and manageable, though terrain is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and allow adequate time for animal viewing and special exhibits like the dinosaur exhibit.
• 💡Visit the concession stand during off-peak hours (avoid lunchtime) when lines are short and staffing is adequate. Alternatively, consider eating elsewhere if visiting during peak meal times.
• 💡Membership offers excellent value for frequent visitors. The zoo hosts special events throughout the year including trivia nights, wine tastings, brewery events, and guided night walks—benefits that quickly justify membership costs.
• 💡First-time visitors with children should use the check-off card activity system (used during special events like Trunk-or-Treat) to make the experience interactive. Red panda viewing can be challenging due to dark exhibit lighting, so allow extra time or visit when natural light is brightest.

Hours