The Bronx: A Walk on the Wild Side with a Twist

Sure, the Bronx Zoo is legendary. It’s the largest urban zoo in the world, after all, with more than 265 acres in the heart of the Bronx. And whether it’s your first time visiting or your thirtieth there is always something new.

The latest buzz? The “Wild Encounters” program, where you can get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s most fascinating residents. Imagine feeding a giraffe, meeting a sloth, or standing a few feet away from a cheetah while learning about its conservation story. It’s not just a zoo visit—it’s like being on a mini safari without leaving New York.

And have you heard of the Congo Gorilla Forest, a lush 6.5-acre exhibit that immerses you in the central African rainforest. This isn’t your average “look through the glass” setup—it’s a true wildlife experience. As you stroll through winding trails, you’ll encounter mandrills, okapis, and, of course, a troop of western lowland gorillas. Watch as they lounge, play, and interact in an environment so naturalistic, it feels like you’ve teleported to the jungle. And here’s the best part: the admission fee to the exhibit supports conservation projects directly in Africa.

Experience the JungleWorld exhibit complete with a warm, humid rainforest filled with exotic animals from Asia, like gibbons, otters, and Malayan tapirs. Designed as a fully immersive experience, JungleWorld blurs the line between you and the animals, with free-flying birds and lush greenery surrounding you. It’s a perfect escape from the concrete jungle—especially in winter when the tropical air feels like paradise.

And no visit to the Bronx Zoo is complete without stopping by Tiger Mountain, where you can marvel at these majestic predators in a setting that mirrors their natural habitat. The exhibit is designed to showcase the cats’ natural behaviors, like climbing, swimming, and prowling through the grass.

There’s so much more to see including behind-the-scenes experiences and interactive feeding experiences with my favorite – the birds of prey. Walk among free-flying butterflies or just hand feed the llamas.

And here is one of the coolest things about the Bronx Zoo – its mission. The zoo is operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which works to protect wildlife and habitats in nearly 60 countries. Each visit helps fund vital conservation efforts, so you’re not just having fun—you’re making a difference.

The Bronx Zoo is more than a destination—it’s an experience that brings the wild into the heart of the city. And here’s a pro tip: arrive early to catch the animals at their most active. It is pure magic to see a lion roaring in the morning light or a red panda stretching out on its perch. Bring comfortable shoes, your curiosity, and a sense of wonder—you’re about to see why the Bronx Zoo is truly one of New York City’s greatest treasures.