Best Zoos & Aquariums in New York City for Kids & Families

4 family-friendly zoos & aquariums with age ratings and parent tips.

Highest rated: Tiger Mountain at Bronx Zoo, Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, Bronx Zoo. 1 listing is free. 2 listings are outdoor. Qualified listings include age fit, stroller notes, cost signals, and practical planning tips.

By Kit, KidPaths editor

Reviews family planning details across KidPaths city guides.

This New York City page currently has 4 qualified listings in zoos & aquariums that passed KidPaths' listing and photo checks. Start your comparison with Bronx Zoo, Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, Tiger Mountain at Bronx Zoo, then use the age, cost and visit-length notes to narrow the list.

1 option is free. 2 options work indoors or in mixed weather. 3 options have confirmed stroller access. 4 picks fit toddlers and 4 picks fit big kids.

Start near opening, choose the animals your kids care about most and keep an indoor or seated break in reserve. Large campuses can turn one exciting stop into too much walking.

Top Picks

Tiger Mountain at Bronx Zoo

4.6 stars

Tiger Mountain has a design that puts Amur tigers in an environment that actually looks like a tiger should live in it, rocky outcroppings, water feat

Best for ages 3 and upOutdoorIncluded in Bronx Zoo general admission (~$150-$200 for full-day family visit)

Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

4.6 stars

Children can find more than 130 animal species, explore indoor animal areas, listen to keepers, ride a miniature train when operating, and burn energy

Best for ages 2-12, with animal habitats and stroller access for younger children and keeper talks or animal programs for older children.Indoor & Outdoor$82 for two adults and two children ages 2-12 at regular admission prices, before food or paid add-ons

Bronx Zoo

4.6 stars

The Congo Gorilla Forest puts you in an immersive rainforest environment where you watch lowland gorillas from just a few feet away through floor-to-c

Best for ages 3 and upIndoor & Outdoor$150-$200 including admission (~$27/adult, ~$20/child 3-12), parking $20, lunch at zoo cafe $40-$50, plus optional add-on rides/experiences $20-$30

Butterfly Gardens of Central Park

3.9 stars

The butterfly gardens near the North Meadow in Central Park are a low-key nature discovery spot for families who venture beyond the southern park, the

Best for ages 3-10FreeOutdoor$0; completely free

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