Visit: The Bronx Zoo {New York, NY}

Looking for something to do with the kids or just spend a little time outside? Let’s visit the Bronx Zoo.

You would think with all our trips to zoos over the years, that we would have long since visited the Bronx Zoo, since it’s so big and one of the closest zoos to our home.

Think again.

Madeline had never been.

Nick went once on a field trip last year.

If I’ve gone, it was as a kid with my family or on a school trip.

Which means it was a good 35 years ago.

So we have never been as a family and we were clearly long overdue.

It’s kind of one of the reasons staycations are so popular … it’s a good reminder of what is in your own figurative backyard.

So last year, when friends invited us to go with them on Mother’s Day I, of course, said yes.

Less than an hour by car, it was pretty easy to get to, and even easier since I just followed them. We arrived close to when the zoo opened, so parking was a breeze, and since they are members, I think they have access to lots that non-members don’t.

See: bonus.

First impression?

The zoo is huuuuuge.

We spent about six hours there and I’m not even sure we did half of it.

It’s that big.

Tons of walking, so be prepared.

There is an awesome monorail that will give you a tour through the Wild Asia section of the property. I think that might have been one of my favorite parts, right up there with the baboons and the Congo gorilla section, and the monorail is a convenient way to easily see nooks and crannies around the property that you might otherwise miss … or to just sit and rest for a few.

We had lunch while we were there, and they offer a reasonable amount of options. I was able to find a semi-healthy salad, but super expensive (half a turkey sandwich for $8!), which, unfortunately, is the standard for places like this.

We are in store for another gorgeous weekend coming up, so if you’re looking for something to do, you might add this one to your list. If you live close enough to go more than once a year, consider buying their membership. For $195, it allows you admission for two adults, one guest, all children under 18, and free parking unlimited times. More than one visit in a year, and it pays for itself, and it also includes admission to the NY Aquarium and three other New York zoos.

Bronx Zoo
2300 Southern Boulevard
Bronx, New York 10460

Hungry for more outside adventures in the tri-state area?
This is the perfect time of year to visit the Long Valley Creamery.
As an avid rock collector, our trip to the Sterling Hill Mining Museum was right up Nick’s alley, and a perfect cool escape on a warm day.
Brookhollow’s Barnyard might be the cutest farm we’ve visited so far.
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms is a great step back in time.
Field Station: Dinosaur is perfect for your little (and big!) dinosaur lovers.
We are planning another visit to go back to Grounds for Sculpture and finish what we missed on our last visit.
For even more activity ideas in the tri-state area, visit this appropriately-themed Pinterest board.