Roger Williams Park Zoo
A 40-acre zoological park and landmark in Providence, RI, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and seasonal spectacles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 40-acre zoological park and landmark in Providence, RI, featuring diverse animals, interactive exhibits, and seasonal spectacles.
"This is an annual event held at the zoo in the evening. As always, it was absolutely amazing and outstanding."
Book JOLS Tickets Online
Always purchase tickets for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in advance online. :ticket:
Go Early for Fewer Crowds
For the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, earlier weekday evenings are less crowded. :chartwithupwards_trend:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Zoo grounds
Thousands of intricately carved pumpkins illuminate a magical trail with spooky themes and artistic displays.
Penguin Point Habitat
Zoo grounds
See the newly arrived Humboldt Penguins in their state-of-the-art habitat, a vulnerable species conservation effort.
Dinosaur Among Us Exhibit
Zoo grounds
An immersive experience with over 60 animatronic dinosaurs, perfect for young dinosaur enthusiasts.
Farmyard & Petting Zoo
Zoo grounds
Interactive fun for kids, with opportunities to brush friendly goats and see farm animals up close.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Tickets Early
Check for Special Events & Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book JOLS Tickets Online
Always purchase tickets for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in advance online.
Go Early for Fewer Crowds
For the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, earlier weekday evenings are less crowded.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize the Zoo Map
Grab a map at the entrance to easily navigate and find all the animals on your list.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book JOLS Tickets Online
Always purchase tickets for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in advance online.
Go Early for Fewer Crowds
For the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, earlier weekday evenings are less crowded.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize the Zoo Map
Grab a map at the entrance to easily navigate and find all the animals on your list.
Check for Military Discounts
Active military personnel may receive discounts on admission. :military_medal:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Roger Williams Park Zoo for its family-friendly atmosphere, engaging animal exhibits, and the spectacular annual Jack-O-Lantern event. Many appreciate the conservation focus and the well-maintained grounds. Some minor drawbacks include the price and speed of food service.
"My wife and I went for the jack-o-lantern spectacular. This is an annual event held at the zoo in the evening. As always, it was absolutely amazing and outstanding. We both highly recommend it to anyone who wants to bring their children and or just themselves to see pumpkins car in the most artistic and fantastic way possible. There are over 5,000 pumpkins available to see, many of which are carved to be like Museum pieces of Art."
Thomas Loretz
"Our recent trip to the Roger Williams Park Zoo was a perfect outing for our family, earning it a solid four out of five stars. My wife and I took our five-year-old daughter, and it was a joy to watch her excitement as we explored.
The zoo is incredibly well-suited for families with young children and provides a day full of fun and discovery.
For a five-year-old, the highlight was undoubtedly the farmyard area. She absolutely loved brushing the friendly goats and getting to see them up close. It was a wonderful hands-on experience that made her feel connected to the animals.
The train ride was another big hit, giving us a playful way to see parts of the zoo while taking a short break from walking. We were also thrilled to see the giraffes towering over us and the elephants in their indoor enclosure. Seeing the golden lion tamarins and the beautiful blue hyacinth macaws in their habitats was also very special.
The clear map at the entrance was a huge help, allowing us to easily navigate with our little one and ensure we saw all the animals on her list.
The zoo's focus on conservation is a huge plus, and we felt great about supporting their mission.
In short, Roger Williams Park Zoo is a fantastic destination for a family outing. It’s a place that creates lasting memories, and we highly recommend it. We can’t wait to go back again soon."
Paul L
"This was the first time for my 6 and 4yo to go. They loved it! Wasn't very crowded so that was nice! And all the animals made appearances! My only complaint, was the price of food and how slow it was cooked. But it was tastey for chicken tenders and fries.
We appreciated the military discount on entrance price especially with the rising costs of everything. Beautiful, clean, and not over crowded. All around win."
Gretchen Whitten
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roger Williams Park Zoo is located within Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options also serve the area, with bus routes stopping near the park.
Yes, there is parking available at the zoo. It can get busy, especially during special events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, several RIPTA bus routes service Roger Williams Park, making it accessible via public transportation. Check the RIPTA schedule for specific route information.
The zoo is generally stroller-friendly, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds, making it easy to navigate with young children.
The address for Roger Williams Park Zoo is 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Roger Williams Park Zoo website for the most current admission fees. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and military personnel.
While not always mandatory for general admission, it is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, where advance purchase is often required.
Yes, discounts may be available for military personnel, seniors, and sometimes through AAA or other partnerships. Check the zoo's website for current offers.
Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official Roger Williams Park Zoo website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, Roger Williams Park Zoo offers various membership options, which can provide benefits like free admission for a year and discounts on special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the giraffes, elephants, camels, and the new Humboldt Penguins. The zoo also features a variety of other fascinating animals from around the globe.
Absolutely! The zoo has a farmyard with a petting zoo, a train ride, and the 'Dinosaur Among Us' exhibit, making it a fantastic destination for families with children.
This is an annual Halloween event featuring thousands of hand-carved pumpkins displayed along a trail, creating a magical and spooky atmosphere. It's a highly recommended experience.
Yes, the farmyard area offers opportunities for supervised animal interactions, such as brushing goats.
The zoo is committed to accessibility, with paved paths throughout most of the park. Accessible restrooms and parking are also available. It's advisable to check their website for specific accessibility details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo offers various food concessions, including options for snacks and meals. However, some reviews mention that food can be pricey and service slow.
Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas of Roger Williams Park, but check the zoo's specific policy regarding outside food and beverages within the zoo grounds.
While specific menus can change, most zoo concessions offer a range of options. It's best to inquire at the food stands upon arrival for the most current offerings.
Alcohol may be available during special events like 'Brew at the Zoo,' but is typically not sold during regular operating hours.
Reviews are mixed. While some find the food tasty, others note that it can be expensive and service slow.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular offers incredible photo opportunities with thousands of illuminated pumpkins. The animal exhibits, especially the giraffes and elephants, also make for great shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the zoo administration in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits.
Drones are typically not permitted within zoo grounds due to safety and animal welfare concerns. Always check the zoo's official regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting. For the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, evening is obviously the prime time for capturing the illuminated pumpkins.
While most areas are fine for photos, be mindful of any signage regarding photography restrictions in specific exhibits or for certain animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1During the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, consider visiting on an earlier weekday evening to avoid the biggest crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for little ones.
The zoo's focus on conservation also provides a great educational opportunity to teach children about wildlife. 🎃 Halloween Enthusiasts
This event transforms the zoo into a magical, spooky spectacle with thousands of intricately carved pumpkins. It's consistently rated as one of New England's best Halloween events. Remember to book your tickets online in advance, as this event is extremely popular and sells out.
For a less crowded experience, aim for weekday evenings. The illuminated trails and themed displays create an unforgettable Halloween atmosphere. 📸 Photography Buffs
Capture the artistry of the carvings and the magical ambiance of the illuminated trails. During the day, the animal exhibits offer excellent subjects. The giraffes, elephants, and the new penguin habitat are particularly photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
+1Visitors can stroll along a dedicated path, often accompanied by spooky music, to discover these glowing masterpieces. The event is incredibly popular, and it's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, as they can sell out, especially for weekend evenings.
+1 For families with young children, attending on an earlier weekday evening can mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. Beyond the pumpkins, the event often offers a chance to see some of the zoo's animals, adding an extra layer of magic to the evening. Some years have featured themed nights or trivia, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
It's a testament to the zoo's commitment to creating unique and memorable seasonal attractions. Conservation Efforts at Roger Williams Park Zoo
The zoo's commitment to conservation is evident in its educational programs and the way exhibits are designed. They aim to inform visitors about the challenges facing different species and inspire action. The golden lion tamarins and blue hyacinth macaws are among the species highlighted for their conservation status, offering visitors a chance to learn about their plight and the zoo's role in their survival.
Supporting Roger Williams Park Zoo means supporting a broader mission of wildlife preservation. From the smallest armadillo enjoying a pumpkin treat
Family Fun Beyond the Animals
For younger visitors, the farmyard area is a highlight, offering hands-on experiences like brushing friendly goats, making it a truly interactive visit. The zoo is also part of the larger Roger Williams Park, which boasts numerous attractions. Visitors can enjoy swan boats on the pond, explore beautiful gardens, or let kids burn off energy at the playground.
This makes the zoo a perfect centerpiece for a full day of family exploration in the park, catering to a wide range of interests and energy levels. With a clear map at the entrance and well-maintained paths, navigating the zoo and park with children is made easier.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit