Prospect Park Zoo, Brooklyn

4.0

#6 of 23 in Parks in Brooklyn

Zoo · Zoo / Aquarium

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The Prospect Park Zoo is a 12-acre (4.9 ha) zoo located off Flatbush Avenue on the eastern side of Prospect Park, Brooklyn, New York City. As of 2016, the zoo houses 864 animals representing about 176 species, and as of 2007, it averages 300,000 visitors annually. The Prospect Park Zoo is operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). In conjunction with the Prospect Park Zoo's operations, the WCS offers children's educational programs, is engaged in restoration of endangered species populations, runs a wildlife theater, and reaches out to the local community through volunteer programs.

Its precursor, the Menagerie, opened in 1890. The present facility first opened as a city zoo on July 3, 1935, and was part of a larger revitalization program of city parks, playgrounds and zoos initiated in 1934 by Parks Commissioner Robert Moses. It was built, in large part, through Civil Works Administration and Works Progress Administration (WPA) labor and funding.
After 53 years of operation as a city zoo run by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Prospect Park Zoo, also colloquially known as "Brooklyn Zoo", closed in June 1988 for reconstruction. The closure signaled the start of a five-year, $37 million renovation program that, save for the exteriors of the 1930s-era buildings, completely replaced the zoo. It was rededicated on October 5, 1993, as the Prospect Park Wildlife Conservation Center, as part of a system of four zoos and one aquarium managed by the WCS, all of which are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

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Prospect Park Zoo reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

213 reviews

Google

4.4

By Anonymous855

Yes, it is designed for children but isn't that part of the fun? We took our time looking at the exhibits of monkeys, birds, fish, etc. The landscaping was nice and there were enough places to rest.... more

Yes, it is designed for children but isn't that part of the fun? We took our time looking at the exhibits of monkeys, birds, fish, etc. The landscaping was nice and there were enough places to rest.... more »
By jonathancchan

Definitely one of the smaller zoos, but there are quite a few animals including seals, and a peacock that was roaming around the entire place.

Definitely one of the smaller zoos, but there are quite a few animals including seals, and a peacock that was roaming around the entire place. more »

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Google

By Lisa S

I have stopped by this cute little zoo several times in the past with today being my most recent visit. It might not be a large zoo, especially in comparison to the Bronx Zoo, but it has enough animals and exhibits to entertain a small child. The price of admission is $9.95 for an adult and $6.95 for a child, which I find extremely reasonable. They have a really cool barn with adorable friendly farm animals that can be hand fed. They also have a cafe/gift shop which has vastly improved since the last time I was here. The cafe part might be limited on food options, but they have really nifty gifts and toys. Be on the lookout of all the zoos friendly resident peacocks that are walking around so children won't be startled if they approach them. I definitely recommend anyone (whether solo or with a family) to check out this zoo. It is really a great place to spend a few hours every once in a while.

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By MX Williams

This zoo is medium sized on my zoo tour so far. This was the second zoo on my NYC zoo tour. The exhibits in this zoo are worth the the cost offering a mix of indoor and outdoor placements. This zoo is perfect for all ages & this was reflected in the audience there on my visit. From the front, there is a pool with California Sea Lions. There is a barn with goats, sheep and an alpaca that can be fed for 50c (2 quarters needed) with a handful of feed. The animals are very friendly. Have no fear of any adverse reactions from them. There is a hall of animals with exhibits of monkeys, reptiles, birds, cats, and even a dark room with bats. There is a trail with a wide range of animals including dingos, porcupines, otters and red pandas. There’s an exhibition on baboons that are together in a family. I recommend this place for dates, friends, and family if you’re into animals. Tickets prices can be found online. WCS members can get tickets free.

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