The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo, also known as the Prospect Park Zoo, is a 12-acre zoo located within the beautiful Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York. This hidden gem offers visitors a chance to discover a diverse array of animals, from the playful red pandas to the elusive Pallas’s cats, all while surrounded by the lush greenery of the Prospect Park.
Animals and Exhibits
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. Visitors can observe the majestic dingos, the curious red pandas, and the enigmatic Pallas’s cats, among many other species.
The zoo features both outdoor and indoor exhibits, providing a well-designed and well-maintained space for visitors to explore. The outdoor exhibits allow visitors to observe the animals in their natural habitats, while the indoor exhibits offer a more intimate and educational experience.
Outdoor Exhibits
- Dingo Exhibit: Witness the captivating behavior of these Australian native canines as they roam their spacious enclosure.
- Red Panda Exhibit: Catch a glimpse of these adorable, tree-dwelling mammals as they gracefully navigate their habitat.
- Pallas’s Cat Exhibit: Observe the elusive and enigmatic Pallas’s cats, also known as the “manul,” in their carefully crafted exhibit.
Indoor Exhibits
- Aquarium: Explore the underwater world of the zoo’s aquarium, featuring a diverse array of aquatic life.
- Reptile House: Marvel at the fascinating reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles, in the zoo’s dedicated reptile exhibit.
- Small Mammal House: Discover the charming and often overlooked small mammals, such as prairie dogs and meerkats, in this cozy indoor exhibit.
Events and Programs
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year to enhance the visitor experience.
Animal Feedings
Visitors can witness the zoo’s animals being fed, providing a unique opportunity to observe their natural behaviors and learn more about their dietary needs.
Special Events
The zoo hosts various seasonal celebrations and educational programs, such as:
– Cherry Blossom Festival: Celebrate the stunning blooms of the cherry trees during the spring season.
– Halloween Spooktacular: Enjoy Halloween-themed activities and encounters with the zoo’s spooky residents.
– Winter Wonderland: Explore the zoo’s enchanting winter landscape and participate in festive activities.
Visitor Information
Location and Hours
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo is located within Prospect Park, adjacent to the renowned Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The zoo is open from Wednesday to Sunday, with the last entry at 8:30 p.m. Advance tickets are recommended to ensure a smooth visit.
Tickets and Admission
Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the zoo’s entrance. The zoo offers various ticket options, including general admission, discounted tickets for seniors and children, and special event packages.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, located adjacent to the zoo, is a 52-acre oasis that showcases over 12,000 different plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore the garden’s diverse collection, enjoy seasonal programs, and engage in various activities.
Plant Collection
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden boasts an impressive collection of plants, including rare and endangered species, as well as iconic displays like the Cherry Esplanade and the Bonsai Museum.
Seasonal Programs
The garden hosts a variety of seasonal public programs, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring, the Ghouls and Gourds celebration in the fall, and the Winter Wonderland light trail during the colder months.
Trails and Activities
Visitors can enjoy walking trails, participate in guided birding tours, and engage in interactive activities for children, making the Brooklyn Botanic Garden a truly immersive and educational experience.
Reviews and Feedback
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo and the adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden have received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors. Guests have praised the well-designed spaces, the variety of exhibits, and the engaging events and programs.
General Feedback
Visitors have consistently highlighted the zoo’s and garden’s ability to provide a peaceful and educational oasis within the bustling city of Brooklyn. Many have expressed their delight in discovering the hidden gems of the Prospect Park.
Cherry Blossom Season
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is particularly renowned for its stunning cherry blossom displays during the spring season. Visitors flock to the garden to witness the breathtaking blooms and participate in the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
In conclusion, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden Zoo and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offer a unique and captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in observing the diverse array of animals, exploring the lush plant collections, or immersing yourself in seasonal celebrations, this hidden gem in Brooklyn is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and botanical garden enthusiasts alike.
References
- Prospect Park Zoo. (n.d.). Prospect Park Zoo Things to Do. Retrieved from https://prospectparkzoo.com/things-to-do
- NYCTourism. (n.d.). Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Year-Round Indoor & Outdoor Exhibits. Retrieved from https://www.nyctourism.com/attractions-tours/brooklyn-botanic-garden/
- AllTrails. (n.d.). Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, New York – 93 Reviews, Map | AllTrails. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/brooklyn-botanical-gardens
- ILoveNY. (n.d.). Brooklyn Botanic Garden | Brooklyn, NY 11225 – ILoveNY.com. Retrieved from https://www.iloveny.com/listing/brooklyn-botanic-garden/25112/
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Retrieved from https://www.bbg.org.