Prospect Park Zoo has been bringing the wide world of critters to Brooklyn for more than a century. Observe playful primates, endangered red pandas and scaly reptiles amid the leafy expanse of this large public park in Brooklyn. Discover how the many species of animals live in an array of different habitats. Now managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the zoo has a significant collection of endangered animals and hosts a series of informative keeper talks throughout the day.
The zoo is comprised of several exhibition areas, all accessed through preserved 1930s redbrick buildings. Check out the Discovery Trail, making up the zoo’s southern section. Spot creatures from almost every continent, including black-tailed prairie dogs, red pandas, North American river otters and emus and dingoes from Australia. Clamber through twisting tunnels to reach observation areas within the animals’ enclosures.
Return to the central court and head west through the Animal Lifestyles exhibit. Explore the building’s collection of dioramas, which explain habitats on land, in water and in the air. See golden lion tamarins, lettered aracari and Pallas’s cats. Learn how hamadryas baboons communicate or find out about the zoo’s endangered wildlife recovery program.
Explore indoor exhibits in the Hall of Animals section, which features reptiles and small rodents and explores the different relationships between animals and people. Find familiar and unusual farm animals in the Barn and Garden area. Visit the Discovery Center, where kids can check out education programs. Make your way to the zoo’s central Sea Lion Court and watch sea lion training sessions. Held three times a day, the shows demonstrate the playful and intelligent nature of these animals.
Stop at the zoo’s café for lunch or a snack or bring your own picnic to enjoy at the zoo’s outdoor tables. The Prospect Park Zoo store stocks a range of educational books, souvenirs and gifts.
Prospect Park Zoo is located on the eastern side of Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Reach the zoo easily via subway or bus. Discounted admission is available for children and seniors. The zoo is open daily.
