The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest and most impressive zoos in the United States, offering an incredible journey through the animal kingdom. Spread across 265 acres, it features large, naturalistic habitats that transport visitors from the African plains to the jungles of Asia.
Summer is a fantastic time to visit the Bronx Zoo, as the animals are active, the landscaping is lush, and the zoo offers a full schedule of seasonal programs and extended hours. Here is your guide to the summer delights, programs, and exhibits at the Bronx Zoo for August 2025.
Why Visit the Bronx Zoo in Summer?
August brings the zoo to life. The warm weather allows visitors to enjoy all the outdoor attractions comfortably, and the zoo often introduces special summer programming.
- Extended Hours: The zoo typically operates with extended hours during the summer, allowing more time for exploration.
- Active Animals: Many animals are more active and visible during the summer months.
- Seasonal Attractions: Key attractions like the Wild Asia Monorail and the Children’s Zoo are in full swing.
Summer Highlights and Must-Do Experiences
1. Wild Asia Monorail
The Experience: This open-air monorail takes you on a journey through the heart of Wild Asia, offering unobstructed views of animals roaming in large enclosures. It’s a unique and relaxing way to see species that might be hard to spot on foot.
What You’ll See: Rhinos, tigers, elephants, red pandas, and various deer and antelope species.
Tip: The monorail is a seasonal attraction (typically May-October). Lines can be long; try to ride early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
2. Congo Gorilla Forest
The Experience: One of the zoo’s flagship exhibits, the Congo Gorilla Forest is a massive, immersive habitat that transports you to an African rainforest. The indoor viewing areas offer close-up views of two troops of Western lowland gorillas.
What You’ll See: Gorillas, mandrills, okapis, and various bird species. The habitat is lush and detailed.
Tip: This exhibit is popular year-round but offers a great mix of indoor and outdoor viewing.
3. The Children’s Zoo
The Experience: Perfect for younger visitors, the Children’s Zoo offers interactive experiences, climbing structures, and opportunities to get close to various animals. The petting zoo area allows kids to feed and interact with goats, sheep, and other domestic animals.
What You’ll See: Prairie dogs, porcupines, colorful birds, and the new giant anteater exhibit.
4. Sea Lion Pool
The Experience: Located in the center of the zoo, the Sea Lion Pool is a classic attraction. The daily feedings are a highlight, showcasing the intelligence and agility of the sea lions.
Tip: Check the daily schedule for feeding times and arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
Beating the Heat: Best Indoor Exhibits
August afternoons can be hot. When you need a break from the sun, head to these excellent air-conditioned indoor exhibits.
1. JungleWorld
An immersive indoor rainforest habitat featuring animals from Asia. The building is vast, humid (but cooler than outside), and incredibly detailed. You’ll see black leopards, gibbons, tapirs, and numerous bird and reptile species.
2. Madagascar!
This exhibit showcases the unique biodiversity of Madagascar, housed in a beautifully restored historic building. See various species of lemurs (including the ring-tailed lemur and the fossa), crocodiles, and other endemic species.
3. World of Reptiles
A classic zoo exhibit offering a cool, dark environment to observe snakes, lizards, turtles, and amphibians from around the world.
Special Summer Programs and Activities (2025)
The Bronx Zoo often hosts special events and programs during the summer. Check the official website for the 2025 schedule.
Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure
For an adrenaline rush, the Treetop Adventure offers aerial obstacle courses and zip lines over the Bronx River. This is a separately ticketed attraction located just outside the main zoo entrance. It’s a fantastic summer activity for older kids and adults.
Wild Encounters
These programs offer behind-the-scenes experiences and close-up encounters with animals like cheetahs, penguins, or giraffes. These are ticketed and require advance booking.
Keeper Chats and Feedings
The summer schedule is packed with daily keeper chats and animal feedings throughout the zoo. These are great opportunities to learn more about the animals and see them active.
Tips for Visiting the Bronx Zoo in Summer
- Buy Tickets Online: Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. The Bronx Zoo requires date-specific reservations.
- Total Experience Tickets: To access premium exhibits like the Wild Asia Monorail, Congo Gorilla Forest, and the Children’s Zoo, you will need a “Total Experience” ticket.
- Arrive Early: The zoo is largest and the animals are often most active in the morning. Arriving at opening time helps you beat the crowds and the heat.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle. There are water fountains throughout the zoo for refills.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking. The zoo is large and hilly in some areas.
- Free Wednesdays: Admission to the general zoo grounds is free on Wednesdays (donations encouraged). However, this does not include the premium exhibits, and Wednesdays are often very crowded. Reservations are still required.
The Bronx Zoo offers an incredible escape into the wild, making it a perfect destination for a summer day trip in NYC.
