Staten Island Zoo
An 8-acre urban oasis housing over 1,100 animals, featuring reptiles, an African Savannah, and family-friendly exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission!
Staten Island Zoo
Best Time
Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8-acre urban oasis housing over 1,100 animals, featuring reptiles, an African Savannah, and family-friendly exhibits.
"A great place for a weekend outing with kids, we'll definitely be back!"
🎯 Free Wednesday Visits
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday! It's a great deal, but expect more visitors.
🐐 Feed the Goats!
For a small fee, you can feed the goats and sheep. A fun interactive experience for all ages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Savannah Exhibit
Africa Wing
Experience a taste of Africa with diverse animals, including new feathered friends like the Cape Barren goose.
Southern Tamandua
Tamandua Exhibit
Meet Ernest, the adorable Southern tamandua, born at the zoo and thriving with his family.
North American River Otter
Otter Exhibit
Watch Rotini, a lively otter, play and interact with her environment. Otters thrive in pairs!
Petting Zoo
Petting Area
Little ones love getting up close with friendly goats and sheep, a highlight for many young visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission Days
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Wednesday Visits
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday! It's a great deal, but expect more visitors.
🐐 Feed the Goats!
For a small fee, you can feed the goats and sheep. A fun interactive experience for all ages.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tight. Arrive early or consider public transport if driving.
📞 Check Exhibit Status
Some exhibits may be closed for maintenance. Call ahead if you're visiting for a specific animal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Wednesday Visits
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday! It's a great deal, but expect more visitors.
🐐 Feed the Goats!
For a small fee, you can feed the goats and sheep. A fun interactive experience for all ages.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tight. Arrive early or consider public transport if driving.
📞 Check Exhibit Status
Some exhibits may be closed for maintenance. Call ahead if you're visiting for a specific animal.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the zoo.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally have a positive experience at the Staten Island Zoo, praising its cleanliness, manageable size, and friendly staff, making it a great spot for families. While some wish for more animals or larger exhibits, the zoo offers a wholesome and enjoyable outing for a few hours.
"We had such a wonderful time at the Staten Island Zoo! It’s a perfect place for families with young kids clean, safe, and full of interesting animals to see. Our little one absolutely loved the petting area and watching the monkeys and reptiles.
The zoo isn’t too big, which makes it easy to walk around without getting tired, and everything is well maintained. Staff were friendly and helpful, and there are plenty of spots to sit, rest, or grab a snack.
A great place for a weekend outing with kids we’ll definitely be back!"
Yusuf Kacan
"It's a wonderful place. My daughter and I had a great time walking in the green park and seeing lots of interesting animals. All the animals are well-groomed and clean, and it's clear how much work goes into caring for them."
Anna
"First time here with husband and 10 month old baby and we loved it. We got to see everything and it took us exactly 2 hours (with 1 bathroom break).
Admission is $12 per adult, free for kids under 2.
Wish the zoo was bigger and had more animals but I was actually pleasantly surprised with its current size, I thought it would be smaller and so glad to find out that it is not.
We came on a Sunday of Labor Day weekend and there were no shows of any sort but that was okay.
We also did the carousel ($3 for child + adult).
Next time, planning to feed the goats and sheep (50 cents for a small handful of feed) and maybe even go inside the enclosure to get up close to the goats and sheep (another $3).
All in all, a fun and wholesome experience for the whole family!
We will definitely be back!"
Natalya Pigulskaya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Staten Island Zoo by car, bus, or even by taking the Staten Island Ferry for scenic views before heading to the zoo.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and free admission days. Arriving early is recommended.
The Staten Island Ferry offers free rides with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, making it a popular choice. +1
Some visitors have reported difficulty finding the main entrance, especially without a car. It's best to use GPS or ask for directions if you're unsure.
Yes, several bus routes serve the area around the Staten Island Zoo, making it accessible for those relying on public transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $12 for adults, with free admission for children under 2. However, the zoo offers free admission every Wednesday for all visitors.
Yes, the Staten Island Zoo offers free admission every Wednesday. This is a popular time, so expect larger crowds.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, it's generally advisable to check the official Staten Island Zoo website for the most up-to-date information on purchasing tickets in advance.
Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Staten Island Zoo website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Information on discount codes is not readily available. However, the free Wednesday admission is a significant saving. Keep an eye on their social media for any special promotions.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The zoo features a variety of animals, including reptiles, monkeys, and birds in its Africa Wing. Recent births include a Southern tamandua and a porcupine.
Absolutely! Families with young kids love the petting zoo and the manageable size of the zoo, making it easy to navigate without exhaustion.
Most visitors find that it takes about 2 hours to see everything at the Staten Island Zoo, including a short break.
While some visitors noted a lack of shows on certain days, the zoo often has special events and enrichment activities for its animals, like pumpkin play.
The zoo is described as not too big, making it easy to walk around. While some wish it were larger, many find its current size pleasant and manageable.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe and picnic areas available at the Staten Island Zoo, offering convenient options for visitors to grab a bite.
Picnic areas are available, suggesting that bringing your own food is a welcome option for visitors looking to save money or enjoy a specific meal.
The cafe and picnic areas provide basic dining facilities. Reviews suggest these areas are well-maintained and offer a good place to rest.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse animal exhibits, especially the African Savannah and the new tamandua, offer great photo opportunities. The Staten Island Ferry ride also provides iconic shots of the Statue of Liberty.
Most exhibits are designed to allow good viewing angles for visitors, making it relatively easy to capture clear photos of the animals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding flash photography or professional shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a Wednesday for free admission, but be prepared for larger crowds. If your child has specific interests, it's a good idea to call ahead to ensure their favorite exhibits are open, as some may occasionally be closed for maintenance.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and drinks for a picnic at the zoo's designated areas can further save money. While admission is usually $12 for adults, the free Wednesday option makes it accessible for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The zoo's layout is generally conducive to good shots, with well-placed viewing areas. For iconic cityscapes, the Staten Island Ferry provides unparalleled opportunities to capture the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Aim for the right side of the ferry on your way to Staten Island and the left on your return for the best views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Staten Island Ferry Experience
While the ferry itself is the main draw for many, it also serves as a gateway to exploring Staten Island. Some visitors opt to disembark and explore nearby attractions, though the ferry ride back is often considered the highlight for those short on time. Remember to stand on the right side heading to Staten Island and the left side on the return trip for the best Statue of Liberty views.
It's important to note that while the ferry is free, some individuals near the terminals may try to sell unofficial tours or souvenirs. Stick to the official ferry for a genuine and cost-free experience.
Staten Island Zoo: A Community Gem
+1Visitors consistently praise the zoo for its cleanliness, well-maintained grounds, and the clear dedication of its staff to animal care. The manageable size makes it ideal for families with young children, allowing for a thorough exploration without overwhelming little ones.
Recent additions and births, such as Ernest the Southern tamandua and Pinecone the porcupine, highlight the zoo's ongoing commitment to conservation and breeding programs. The zoo also engages visitors with animal enrichment activities, like seasonal pumpkin play for the otters.
+3Navigating Staten Island's Reputation
Despite this, many visitors find plenty to appreciate, from the scenic ferry ride to the local charm. The zoo itself is frequently cited as a worthwhile destination, offering a pleasant and educational experience.
Ultimately, Staten Island offers a different pace and perspective compared to the bustling energy of Manhattan. It's a place where local life and unique attractions, like the zoo, provide a distinct New York City experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit