FAQs
Tickets & Admission FAQs
What is flex pricing?
Flex pricing on the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket gives guests the opportunity to plan ahead and visit the park at a lower price but with the same great experience.
Why is the Bronx Zoo implementing flex pricing?
The Bronx Zoo is implementing this new pricing model to encourage visits during non-peak times, and to make the Bronx Zoo more accessible to all audiences. With high demand on certain days and times of year, we hope this will spread out attendance patterns and help guests have great experiences all year round.
How does flex pricing work?
Flex pricing is in effect for the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket only. Price adjustments will be made in real time and based on several factors including weather, day of week, time of day, holidays, and special events.
Look at the Ticketing page calendar to see price options for each day and arrival times and make a selection that best fits your needs. Prices may change daily, so guests are encouraged to plan ahead and save. Lock in best prices by purchasing online, farther in advance.
How can i get the best price?
It depends on the date of your visit and how early you buy. Tickets purchased online before you visit will always cost less than tickets purchased on the day of your visit. The farther in advance you purchase, the more you’re likely to save! To view a calendar of current prices, visit our tickets page.
Flex pricing is not a universal increase in price for the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket. During certain periods in our operating calendar, prices will be reduced.
If I buy today, is it possible for the price to go down tomorrow?
No, but the price may increase over time, so it is always best to purchase your ticket online in advance.
Can I purchase tickets on-site at the park?
No. All ticket purchases and Member reservations must be made online in advance. Do not come to the zoo if you do not have a timed ticket for entry. If you have difficulty completing your online reservation, please contact us at onlinetickets@wcs.org or (800) 433-4149. Due to high volume, you may experience longer than usual response times, and we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding.
What is included with a Bronx Zoo admission ticket?
Bronx Zoo Admission is a premium ticket that provides park entry plus unlimited access to all Star Attractions available on your day of visit.
Year-round Star Attractions include: Bug Carousel, Congo Gorilla Forest, JungleWorld, and Nature Trek. Seasonal Star Attractions include: Butterfly Garden, Children’s Zoo, Wild Asia Monorail, and Zoo Shuttle. Budgie Landing is not included with a Bronx Zoo Admission ticket.
Is flex pricing in effect for other admission products?
Flex pricing is only in effect for the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket. Guests can still purchase Limited Admission on any day at the fixed price.
Does flex pricing affect Membership?
No. Members will continue to reserve their tickets in advance, but the price of a Membership and the associated benefits will not be impacted by Flex pricing for the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket.
Do members need to reserve a ticket to visit?
Yes! In order to manage the visit demand, all guests, including WCS Members, must have a ticket for entry. Reservations for your free member tickets must be made online in advance. Use the Member portal for your reservation.
What is the difference between the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket and a Limited Admission ticket?
The Bronx Zoo Admission ticket is the best value for a one-day visit. In addition to park entry and access to the general zoo exhibits, this ticket INCLUDES entry to the premium Star Attractions.
- Year-round Star Attractions: JungleWorld, Congo Gorilla Forest, Bug Carousel, Nature Trek
- Seasonal Star Attractions: Children’s Zoo, Butterfly Garden, Wild Asia Monorail, Zoo Shuttle
If a guest chooses to buy a Limited Admission ticket, they will need to purchase individual attraction tickets ($7 each), per Star Attraction. For less than the cost of 3 Star Attractions, the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket type provides access to ALL the Star Attractions available on your date of visit.
Looking for an even better value? Become a WCS Member and get free admission AND free Star Attractions*.
*member benefits based on level selected
Is there a day when admission is free?
Limited Admission is free all day on Wednesdays at the Bronx Zoo. ADVANCE TIMED TICKETS ARE REQUIRED. The Wednesday Ticket Store opens on Mondays at 5:00pm for that Wednesday’s reservations. DO NOT come to the zoo without a reserved ticket.
I didn’t get an email with my tickets – what do i do?
We are sorry for the difficulty. Please first check to confirm that the purchase was completed on your credit card. If the charge is in “Pending” status, that might mean that the transaction was not completed and there is no order made.
If the charge was fully processed, and you do not receive the order email, then check your junk/spam folder. If you do not find it, you can contact us to resend your tickets. Please reach out to the Reservation Center to ask for the tickets to be resent: Phone: 800-433-4149 or email (if visit is more than 7 days away): onlinetickets@wcs.org. Be sure to include the name, email and phone number associated with your purchase.
We strongly recommend getting the tickets resent prior to your visit to ensure that your order was processed. If you do arrive on site without the ticket PDF it is a risk that you may not have an order reservation, and if we are sold out you will not be permitted entry. An order can be looked up by order number, or purchaser name, or email, or phone number.
How do I get a timed ticket if I already have a ticket that is not for a specific date? (, voucher, gift ticket, courtesy ticket, etc.)
Use our online web form for assistance from the Reservation Center. If you have an unused "open" ticket - such as a Gift Ticket, courtesy ticket, or unused Winter Total Experience ticket - you will need to apply that to a timed ticket BEFORE arriving at the zoo. You must have your ticket order number, and the name, email and phone number associated with that order. We are experiencing a high volume of correspondence – PLEASE plan at least 2 weeks in advance of your requested visit date to allow for ticket requests to be processed.
Can I reschedule for another day?
All ticket sales are final. There are no refunds, cancellations or rescheduling. We ask guests to be accountable to their purchase decision and adhere to the ticketing policies which were stated prior to purchase. This includes the terms and conditions acknowledgement that all sales are final and no revisions for credit, refund, rescheduling, exchange or cancellation. If you cannot make your scheduled reservation, we recommend sharing your non-member tickets with a friend or family members to use; or consider applying your one-day tickets to a WCS Membership.
I cannot go on the date I selected, can I cancel and get a refund?
When purchasing your tickets, please select your dates carefully – tickets are nonrefundable. If there are extenuating circumstances, you may contact us to inquire; however, availability is not guaranteed. If your new date is more expensive than your original ticket, you will be required to pay the difference. Please contact 800-433-4149 or onlinetickets@wcs.org for assistance.
It is going to rain; can I get a refund or change my ticket date?
With over 260 acres to explore, there is always plenty to see and do at the Bronx Zoo. Please plan ahead for the weather, and check out our special guide on how to have a great time at the zoo on a rainy day. All tickets are final sale. Due to visit demand, we cannot provide refunds, cancellations or rain checks due to weather conditions or animal visibility. On any day, all exhibits and experiences are subject to unforeseen conditions and not guaranteed, including but not limited to weather, mechanical, animal-related issues.
What if I need to buy more tickets at a later date? Will I pay the same price as my original ticket order?
Ticket prices may change daily. If you need additional tickets, we recommend buying as soon as possible to receive a lower price but there is no guarantee that the price will be the same as your original ticket order.
Can I still take advantage of flex pricing if I don’t use a computer?
Yes! You can still buy ahead and save on the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket by calling our reservation center between the hours of 9am and 5pm. Phone: 800-433-4149.
Does the zoo offer military discounts?
Yes! Active US Military and Veterans are eligible to receive a complementary Bronx Zoo Admission ticket or Limited Admission ticket for themselves and 50% off tickets for up to 3 guests. Advance ticket reservation required. Please use promotional code MILITARYBZ for active personnel and VETERANBZ for Veterans during checkout. Military member must be present with valid ID on entry. Group must stay together on arrival.
In the absence of a military member, spouses or other family members are only eligible to redeem the 50% discount when an ‘Active Dependent Card’ is presented on entry. Please use promotional code MILITARYBZDEP for active personnel and VETERANBZDEP for Veterans during checkout.
Discount code must be entered at the time of checkout. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Not applicable towards prior purchases.
Does the zoo offer student discounts?
We offer complementary Limited Admission to NYC undergraduate college students. Advance ticket reservation required. Please use promo code NYCCOLLEGE during checkout. Eligible students must either be: a) attending a NYC college (must show a valid college ID from an institution within the 5 boroughs of New York City; b) NYC resident, attending non-NYC college (must show valid college ID and proof of NYC residency).
Discount code must be entered at the time of checkout. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Not applicable towards prior purchases. Reserve tickets here.
I am a NYC school teacher or camp counselor. What is the admissions fee for my students/campers?
Limited Admission is FREE from Monday through Friday for NYC based school & camp groups with a minimum of 10 people and an adult chaperone ratio of 1:10. Advanced Reservations required. Book a reservation now. For questions, contact the Group Sales Department at (800) 433-4149 or at wcsgroupsales@wcs.org.
I am a non-NYC school teacher or camp counselor. What is the admissions fee for my students?
Non-NYC schools & camps that have a minimum of 10 people and an adult chaperone ratio of 1:10 enjoy SPECIAL ticket rates.
- BRONX ZOO ADMISSION (includes unlimited Star Attraction) = $15/person
- LIMITED ADMISSION = $10/person
Advanced reservations required. Book a reservation now. For questions, contact the Group Sales Department at (800) 433-4149 or at wcsgroupsales@wcs.org.
Do I get in free if I'm a member of another zoo?
WCS does not honor reciprocal memberships from other zoos. However, by becoming a WCS member, you can enjoy free admission to all four of our New York Zoos and the Aquarium. Find out more about the benefits of membership!
Can I use a museum council pass?
Yes! Museum Council Passholders are eligible for two complementary Limited Admission tickets. Advance ticket reservation required. Please use promo code MUSEUM during checkout. Must present valid Museum Council pass card on entry along with ticket(s).
Discount code must be entered at the time of checkout. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Not applicable towards prior purchases. Reserve tickets here.
I purchased zoo tickets while riding Metro-North. Do I need to make a reservation for entry?
Yes! In order to manage visit demand, all guests must have a timed ticket for entry. Please have your Metro-North tickets handy and contact our Reservation Center at 800-433-4149 or at wcsgroupsales@wcs.org. We will convert your Metro-North tickets to time specific tickets at no additional cost.
Can I apply the cost of my tickets for credit towards the purchase of a WCS Membership?
Yes! You can apply the cost of your tickets for credit toward the purchase of a WCS Membership. Tickets must be applied to the Membership purchase within 30 days of your visit date. Restrictions apply.
Does flex pricing effect guest tickets for WCS Members?
Yes, for the Bronx Zoo Admission ticket only. WCS Members receive a 20% discount on tickets for additional guests not covered under their membership but looking to visit on the same day. The 20% discount will be applied to the stated ticket price of a Bronx Zoo Admission, based on the date chosen.
Can I park at the zoo?
We have two main entrances with parking lots for general visitors and members: Bronx River Gate and Southern Boulevard Gate. Parking fee is $22 for cars/ Bus parking is only available at Southern Boulevard ($24).
For best arrival experience, please use Southern Boulevard parking lot.
Please note – when entering at Bronx River Gate, depending on that day’s operations, cars may be directed to park in the main lot, or along JungleWorld Road, or in the Asia lot, or in the Riverwalk overflow area. Sections may be used seasonally and not available at all times.All of these locations enter/exit from the Bronx River Gate. For the safety of all our guests, we need drivers to always follow staff instructions on parking.
Where is the zoo entrance?
The Bronx Zoo has 3 “main gates” – Asia Gate (pedestrian entry at Boston Road & Bronx Park South); Bronx River Gate (Pedestrian and Vehicle – Exit 6 off Bronx River Parkway); and Southern Boulevard Gate (Pedestrian entry at S. Blvd and 185th St; Vehicle entry at S. Blvd & 183rd St)
Does the zoo have electric vehicle charging stations?
There are EV charging stations in the Southern Blvd parking lot. These are available year-round on a first come first serve basis, but use is not guaranteed. (Asia Parking lot (via entry at Bronx River Gate) does have a charging station as well; however, Asia Parking lot is not available year-round. This location is seasonal - primarily in use during the summer, and typically used on weekends-only in Spring and Fall.)
What is "preferred parking" and do members park there for free?
Preferred Parking in Fountain Circle offers Bronx Zoo guests the closest parking location to zoo exhibits. With these premier spots, guests can enjoy the utmost convenience and have easy access to their car throughout the day. Preferred Parking is available to visitors on weekends only, for a $30 fee. FREE parking at this exclusive location is a new benefit for Conservation Fellows and Partners. Members at the Dual Premium, Family Premium, and Conservation Supporter levels do not receive free parking in Fountain Circle, but may pay the parking fee of $30 for this lot OR park for free in one of the zoo's other parking lots. Parking is subject to availability; a limited number of Preferred Parking spots will be saved for Conservation Fellows and Partners, but reservations are not accepted. The lot will close when capacity is reached.
Can my teenager visit the zoo without me?
Adult supervision is required. All guests age 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult chaperone age 18 or over.
Park Visit Experience FAQs
Have your hours changed?
Park hours are the same! We open every day at 10am. Closing hours vary seasonally. Please check our Plan Your Visit page for specific seasonal changeover dates. Generally: April – October, the zoo grounds close at 5pm Monday through Friday, and 5:30pm on weekends and holidays; November - March, zoo grounds close 4:30pm daily. Remember – all animal exhibits close 30 minutes prior to park grounds closing time.
A daytime park visit is separate from Holiday Lights event program.
How long can I stay in the Zoo?
You will be prompted to select an entry time window during the ticketing process. This designates when you are able to arrive at the park. Once you’re here, you are welcome to stay as long as you would like. Based on the available exhibits and amenities, we expect the average visit to be 2-2.5 hours.
Will it be possible to practice social distancing at the zoo?
Yes, in many areas. We continue to manage capacity for our guest experience but still expect some lines or gathering at animal viewing areas.
Do I need a ticket for Budgie Landing?
New in 2023! Budgie Landing is a seasonal attraction with a separate admission ticket that is available for purchase on site on your day of visit. $5 per person ($3 per person for WCS Members).
One seed stick is included per ticket. As is the case with all our animals, the behavior of the budgies is not guaranteed. Guests are advised that the birds may choose not to feed during the time of your visit.
What exhibits will be closed when I visit?
While we expect all exhibits and attractions to be open on our regular schedule, there are always unforeseen circumstances including, but not limited to, weather, capacity and animal-related issues. For a complete list of exhibits, check the map posted on the Know Before You Go page. We will not have printed map handouts, but have a mobile site for all the info you need when you visit! Go to BronxZoo.com/today for park map, GPS wayfinding, and up-to-date status on exhibits and amenities.
Will there be any changes to restrooms or water fountains?
All park restrooms will be open. Water bottle filling stations are open. Beverages are available for purchase from food and snack stands.
Can I rent a stroller?
Stroller rentals are available, with expanded cleaning procedures for our operations. All items are limited and availability is on a first come first serve basis. Strollers (single/double) and manual wheelchairs may be rented at any gate (while supplies last), but ECVs are only available at Southern Blvd Gate. Single Stroller - $14.70, Double Stroller - $20.25. Guests are also welcome to bring their own stroller to better monitor your children and help maintain social distancing with other groups.
Can I rent a wheelchair or scooter/ECV?
Regular mobility equipment rentals will be available, with expanded cleaning procedures for our operations. All items are limited, and available on a first come first serve basis. Manual wheelchairs may be rented at any gate (while supplies last), but Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are only available at Southern Blvd Gate. Manual Wheelchair - Free, ECV - $50.63. Please use the Accessibility web page for more information, including some restrictions on ECVs and wheelchair access throughout the park.
What Support Is Available For Guests With Disabilities?
We are committed to providing inclusive experiences for all audiences. Our Accessibility webpage has information to help guests with disabilities enjoy their visit, including support and accommodations relating to mobility, visual and auditory assistance, sensory sensitivities, service dogs, and Personal Care Assistants.
The Accessibility webpage provides information and identifies the accommodations we are broadly able to provide. For additional questions, or assistance with visit planning, please contact Guest Relations at guestrelations@wcs.org or 718-220-5103. Due to high volume of correspondence, we recommend reaching out at least 7 days prior to a planned visit.
Are service dogs or therapy dogs allowed at the Zoo?
Yes, for Service Dogs; No, for therapy dogs.
We only allow working Service Animals, in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the ADA, “a service animal is a dog that has been individually trained to work or perform tasks for assisting a person with a disability.” Service dogs are working animals, not pets. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. Pets, comfort animals, emotional support or therapy animals are not permitted at the Zoo. Upon arrival at the park, please check in with Admissions so a supervisor can review some logistical items with you and issue a Service Dog Admission pass*. Thank you for your cooperation to ensure a safe and successful visit for yourself, your service dog, the animals cared for at the zoo, and other park guests.
*As stipulated by the ADA, Zoo staff may request that a service dog experiencing difficulty or demonstrating problematic behaviors, such as barking or lunging, be removed from the Zoo immediately. We ask that you promptly comply with any such request for the safety and welfare of all.
Can my child use their scooter in the zoo?
No. PLEASE leave scooters and skateboards at home! This is a significant safety problem and we need all guests to comply with our rules that prohibit scooters/skateboards/rollerblades from the park.
What are dining and shopping options?
Our main locations for food and gifts at Dancing Crane Plaza are open daily, with adjusted operations:
- DANCING CRANE CAFÉ indoor restaurant is undergoing renovations. Expected reopening Spring 2022.
- The Cafe outdoor walk-up windows are available daily for food service. There is no indoor dining at the zoo.
- Outdoor seating is available at Dancing Crane Plaza in the covered pavilion. Additional outdoor picnic seating available around the park.
- Several other outdoor food service and snack locations may open throughout the park, based on weather and daily attendance.
- THE BRONX ZOO STORE is open daily.
For up to date status on locations when you visit, use the Interactive Map – Info tab for Eat & Shop
Am I allowed to bring food into the zoo?
Yes, picnic areas and tables for boxed lunches are provided at the Dancing Crane Café and throughout the park. Please abide by the posted rules in exhibits where food and drink are prohibited.
I am a tourist visiting from Manhattan. What's the easiest way to get to the zoo?
The BxM11 express bus is a fast and inexpensive way to travel between the Bronx Zoo and Manhattan. It makes stops along Madison Avenue, between 26th and 99th Streets, then travels directly to the zoo's Bronx River entrance. Click here for complete travel information.
Does the zoo close during the winter? Is it open on holidays?
The Bronx Zoo is open year-round. We close on the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Martin Luther King Day. Spring and summer are naturally high-attendance seasons, but we encourage guests to visit during fall and winter as well. When the weather cools off, many animals are more active and you'll encounter fewer crowds.
Are the zoo's hours different in the summer vs. winter?
They are. In the colder months, from early November to early April, the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During the warmer months, we're open longer, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (5:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays).
Does the Zoo have a Lost and Found?
Yes, our Lost and Found is located in the Security Department in the Education building on Astor Court. To inquire about an item you may have lost at the zoo, call (718) 220-5128.
Can I host a birthday party for my child at the zoo?
We offer Virtual Birthday parties for all ages. Please visit our Virtual Birthday Parties page to learn more.
I am a member of the media and would like to arrange a zoo visit or take some photographs. Who should I contact?
All commercial and news media visits must be approved and pre-arranged by WCS. For more information contact Mary Dixon at 347-840-1242.
Will the Zoo accept an animal I cannot care for?
Every year, the Bronx Zoo receives many inquiries from people who would like to donate wild animals or exotic pets; however, the zoo is not able to accept them. If you have an animal in need of a new home, please contact local and regional rescue organizations that specialize in caring for unwanted pets, such as the ASPCA. Plans for a pet should always include care for its entire lifespan. Remember that exotic animals almost never make good pets. Regretfully, the Bronx Zoo cannot take in additional animals. Please contact your local Animal Control or ASPCA.
Does the Zoo offer behind-the-scenes tours?
Our Wild Encounters programs offer amazing up close animal experiences and are the best way to learn “insider information” about the Bronx Zoo. These programs provide exclusive access, but do not go into keeper areas or restricted zones. Or join us for Education programs for children and adults to discover even more about animals and wildlife conservations. Or a great way to see “behind the scenes” at the Bronx Zoo is through our docu-series “THE ZOO” on Animal Planet!
Does the Bronx Zoo have a zipline and ropes course?
Treetop Adventure closed in 2023. While we enjoyed 6 years of climbing, crawling, zipping, and swinging through the treetops at the Bronx Zoo with you, the time has come to say goodbye to this attraction.
The Bronx Zoo has lots of wild adventures to explore! If you are looking for something beyond the standard daytime zoo visit, take a look at our Education programs and camps, and our Wild Encounters up-close animal experiences and cart tours.
And remember - You can still climb and explore with us at Nature Trek, where kids 3 & up can get a bird’s eye view of the park! Navigate across bridges and over balancing beams, and weave between obstacles for a safe and challenging adventure. Nature Trek is a Star Attraction and included with our premium zoo ticket as well as most Membership levels.
Fall Season FAQs
Is there candy given out during Boo at the Zoo?
For Boo at the Zoo 2024 there will be one treat station for children to visit, 11am to 2pm, while supplies last. Please follow guidelines for one visit per family.
Did you know that palm oil is the world’s most widely produced vegetable oil, and about half of all items found on supermarket shelves contain it – including most Halloween candy? The high demand is threatening tropical forests and animals, such as giant anteaters, tree kangaroos and orangutans. We are choosing only palm oil free items for our treat giveaways, and we encourage you to make wildlife-friendly choices when you are selecting your Halloween treats. Need help deciding what candy to buy? Check out the app created by the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. For more information, visit www.cmzoo.org/palmoil.
Can I come in costume?
While we encourage creativity during special fall events like daytime Boo at the Zoo, and nighttime Pumpkin Nights, we also value safety, good judgment, and animal welfare. Guests may come dressed up for the occasion; however, costume props/weapons are not allowed. Costume makeup is permitted. Adults should not wear masks.
What is the difference between “Boo at the Zoo” and “Pumpkin Nights”?
Boo at the Zoo is the daytime Halloween-themed program. All Boo at the Zoo activities are included with zoo admission on those days (weekends Sept. 28 to Oct 27, plus Monday, Oct 14). See our Boo at the Zoo page for details.
Pumpkin Nights is our evening special event, and is a separate ticket from a daytime zoo visit. Arrival to Pumpkin Nights is ONLY at the Bronx River Gate. Guests must have a specific Pumpkin Nights timed ticket to attend. Pumpkin Nights FAQs.
COVID-19 Park Policies FAQs
Am I required to be fully vaccinated to visit the zoo?
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required to visit indoor exhibits.
Do I need to wear a mask for Wild Encounter Programs?
For the health and safety of our animals, some Wild Encounters and other programs may still require masks.
Park policies are subject to change, and all guests must abide by the rules in effect on the date of visit.
Do I have to wear a face mask at the zoo?
Masks are not required, and can be used based on personal preference. Guests and staff may continue to wear masks for a variety of reasons, so please be kind and considerate of others. Park policies are subject to change, and all guests must abide by the rules in effect on the date of visit.