The Delacorte Clock in Central Park Zoo is a captivating attraction that delights visitors with its enchanting musical performances every half hour. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to experience this unique and whimsical feature of the iconic Central Park Zoo.
The Delacorte Clock: A Musical Masterpiece
The Delacorte Clock is a true marvel of engineering and artistry. Installed in 1965, this clock is a gift from publisher and philanthropist George Delacorte, inspired by the famous Zytglogge clock in Bern, Switzerland. Every half hour, between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, the clock comes alive with a musical performance that features a variety of nursery rhymes and other tunes.
The Chiming Bells and Rotating Animals
At the heart of the Delacorte Clock are its iconic bronze bells and animal statues. As the clock strikes the half-hour, two bronze monkeys perched atop the clock begin to hammer on the bells, activating the musical performance. Surrounding the clock are six bronze animal statues, each playing a different musical instrument, including a penguin on drums, a kangaroo on a French horn, a bear on a tambourine, a goat on a horn, an elephant on an accordion, and a hippo on a violin. These animal musicians rotate around the clock, adding to the whimsical and enchanting atmosphere.
Seasonal Melodies and Maintenance
The music played by the Delacorte Clock is digital and updated seasonally, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a fresh and diverse selection of tunes throughout the year. The clock’s caretakers work diligently to maintain the clock’s mechanical parts and keep the bronze sculptures in pristine condition, cleaning and waxing them annually to preserve their luster.
A Beloved Attraction for All Ages
The Delacorte Clock has become a beloved attraction for visitors of all ages, from young children captivated by the dancing animal musicians to adults who appreciate the clock’s historical significance and artistic beauty. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to the Central Park Zoo is not complete without experiencing the enchanting melodies of the Delacorte Clock.
Exploring the Surrounding Attractions
While the Delacorte Clock is the main draw, the Central Park Zoo offers a wealth of other attractions and experiences for zoo enthusiasts. From the Tisch Children’s Zoo, where you can interact with smaller animals, to the diverse collection of exotic creatures in the main zoo, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Practical Information for Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to the Central Park Zoo and the Delacorte Clock, here are some practical tips:
- Hours of Operation: The Delacorte Clock chimes every half hour between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
- Admission: The Central Park Zoo requires an admission fee, which can be purchased online or at the gate.
- Location: The Delacorte Clock is located between the Central Park Zoo and the Tisch Children’s Zoo, spanning a section of the park’s path.
- Accessibility: The Central Park Zoo and the Delacorte Clock are wheelchair-accessible, making them a great option for visitors with mobility challenges.
Conclusion
The Delacorte Clock in Central Park Zoo is a truly unique and enchanting attraction that should not be missed by any zoo touring enthusiast. With its captivating musical performances, whimsical animal statues, and rich history, the Delacorte Clock is a testament to the creativity and artistry that can be found in the heart of New York City’s iconic Central Park. So, the next time you visit the Central Park Zoo, be sure to make a stop at the Delacorte Clock and experience the magic of its enchanting melodies.
References:
– Central Park NYC – Delacorte Clock
– Time Out New York – 8 Secrets of Central Park’s Iconic Delacorte Clock
– Wikipedia – Delacorte Clock
– YouTube – Delacorte Clock in Central Park Zoo