Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The Bronx Zoo, one of the world’s largest and most renowned zoos, is an ideal destination to explore in the fall. As the vibrant foliage begins to change and the crisp air sets in, the zoo offers visitors a chance to experience both the beauty of nature and the rich diversity of wildlife. The fall season at the zoo presents fewer crowds, making it a peaceful time to observe the animals and enjoy the park’s attractions. From unique seasonal events to quieter pathways, the fall is a great time to visit the zoo and experience a different side of this iconic location.
Location
Photo: BronxZooWorldOfBirdsFan / Wikimedia Commons
The zoo located in the Bronx is one of the five boroughs of New York City. Specifically, the zoo is situated in the borough’s northern part, along the Bronx River’s banks. Covering over 265 acres of land, the zoo is part of the larger New York Zoological Park and one of the world’s largest urban zoos.
How To Reach
Photo: Ptrump16 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest major airport is LaGuardia Airport (LGA), about 10 miles from the zoo. Alternatively, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is roughly 15 miles away. Both airports offer easy access to the Bronx via taxis, rideshares, or public transit.
By Train: The closest train station is the 2 and 5 subway lines, which have stops near the zoo. The 2 and 5 trains at the Pelham Parkway station provide quick access to the zoo. Alternatively, Metro-North Railroad offers connections from Manhattan to the Fordham station, about a 10-minute walk to the zoo.
By Road: The zoo is easily reachable by car. You can take the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87) or the Bronx River Parkway to access the zoo’s main entrance directly from Manhattan.
Places To Visit In And Around The Bronx Zoo
1. Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Education Building
Photo: IdaT / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Wildlife Conservation Society Education Building offers many educational resources, providing visitors with an in-depth look at global conservation efforts. The building features exhibits about endangered species, wildlife habitats, and the WCS’s ongoing work worldwide. It also serves as a hub for educational programs and interactive displays, where visitors can learn more about the zoo’s role in conservation.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
2. Congo Gorilla Forest
Photo: Tim Sträter / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Congo Gorilla Forest is one of the Bronx Zoo’s signature exhibits, offering a lush, rainforest-style habitat for gorillas, monkeys, and other primates. This exhibit features some of the zoo’s most impressive animals, including the western lowland gorilla. The forest is designed to resemble the Congo Basin, with its dense vegetation and flowing streams. The fall season provides a unique chance to see these magnificent creatures up close while enjoying the backdrop of fall foliage.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
3. Butterfly Garden
Photo: Longjeaw / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Butterfly Garden is a seasonal exhibit that emerges when migrating butterflies and other pollinators arrive during the fall. The lush garden features native flowers, attracting butterflies, bees, and insects. As you walk through the garden, you may witness butterflies up close, flitting among the flowers. The fall months are perfect for this experience as the garden blooms with a new season of flowers and wildlife, making it the best place near the zoo to pause and reflect while enjoying the beauty.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
4. JungleWorld
Photo: reneecporter / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
JungleWorld is a year-round indoor exhibit replicating the tropical rainforests of Asia. This exhibit houses various exotic animals, including lemurs, tapirs, and exotic birds. With its temperature-controlled environment, JungleWorld provides a warm, humid contrast to the cooler autumn weather outside. Visitors can observe animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitats, making it the most famous place near the zoo to visit in the fall when the outdoor exhibits may be chillier.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
5. Tropical Forest Exhibit
Photo: Nile / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Tropical Forest Exhibit showcases the incredible biodiversity of tropical ecosystems, focusing on the animals of Central and South America. Visitors can walk through a recreated forest home to toucans, sloths, and jaguars. As fall temperatures cool, this exhibit offers a warm indoor experience and is a perfect way to experience tropical species during the autumn months.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: PIRO4D / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are numerous accommodations in and around the zoo and Manhattan, just a short subway ride away. The Opera House Hotel, located just a few miles away, offers a charming, historic setting for those looking to stay near the zoo. Alternatively, visitors can stay in hotels in Manhattan, such as the Hotel Beacon or The Westin New York, both easily accessible by subway.
Where To Eat
Photo: Foodart / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The zoo offers many dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. Visitors to the zoo can stop by the Dancing Crane Cafe inside the zoo. It serves various meals, from salads to hot dogs, perfect for a family lunch or snack. For more diverse options, visitors can head to the nearby Arthur Avenue, known as “Little Italy,” where you’ll find an array of Italian restaurants, bakeries, and delis. For those craving international cuisine, the Bronx offers everything from Caribbean to Latin American fare, making it a culinary destination.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Tdorante10 / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the zoo is in the fall, between September and November. The weather is more relaxed, making it more comfortable to walk around the zoo without the summer heat. Additionally, the fall foliage creates a vibrant backdrop to the zoo’s natural landscapes. Fall also tends to be less crowded than the summer months, providing a more peaceful experience and better opportunities to see the animals up close. For special events like the “Boo at the Zoo” Halloween celebration, October is an inspiring month to visit.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: veerasantinithi / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip cost to the zoo typically costs around ₹3,300 per adult for general admission, while children’s tickets are priced at about ₹2,500. Special exhibits and attractions like Wild Encounters or the Congo Gorilla Forest may require additional fees. Parking at the zoo costs approximately ₹1,400 daily.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the expansive zoo grounds.
- Don’t forget to capture photos at the Bronx Zoo. The scenic landscapes and wildlife offer plenty of photo opportunities.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have a better chance of seeing animals during feeding times.
- Don’t forget to check for special seasonal events like “Boo at the Zoo” in October.
- Use public transportation to avoid the hassle of finding parking, especially during peak hours.
The Bronx Zoo in the fall offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the zoo’s expansive grounds, observe animals in a more peaceful setting, and take in the beauty of autumn in New York. Whether you are exploring the diverse exhibits or taking part in seasonal events, the zoo provides a rich experience for visitors of all ages. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a hassle-free and fun-filled visit.
Cover Photo: Ryan Schwark / Wikimedia Commons
