Sprawled across 265 acres, Bronx Zoo is one of the world’s largest zoos, behind Beijing, Berlin and Henry Doorly Zoo (Nebraska). It is the biggest metropolitan zoo in the United States, and is known throughout the world for its extraordinarily vast display of animals. More than 4,000 animals from 650 difference species live here.

Because the property is so expansive, we recommend participating in one of the zoo’s tours or programs, as provided by its award-winning Education Department. There are youth and summer programs for kids, as well as family programs that are sure to entertain every member of the pack. Perhaps the most popular is the Family Overnight Safari, where families (children must be 5 or older) get to spend a night together in the park! Guests meet and learn about a variety of different animals, camp out under the stars (bring your own tent and sleeping bags!) and create memories to last a lifetime.

Bronx Zoo tours are lead by knowledgeable, experienced and friendly docents, and are roughly 90 minutes long. The wide variety of available tours include the Madagascar and More Tour, Predator/Prey Tour, World of Birds Tour and The World of Reptiles Tour. Guests wishing to take the tours are encouraged to register by calling the Bronx Zoo Education Department at 718-220-5132.

If you’re looking for more hands-on fun, don’t forget to check out the zoo’s Animal Activity Trail, 4-D Theater and Bug Carousel!