To get to the Central Park Zoo, you can take the N, R, or W trains to the Fifth Avenue/59th Street Station, which is just a 5-minute walk away from the zoo. Alternatively, you can take the Lexington Avenue #6 train, but it requires a slightly longer walk. In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the details of how to reach the Central Park Zoo by train, as well as the zoo’s hours and admission rates.
Taking the N, R, or W Trains to Central Park Zoo
The most convenient way to reach the Central Park Zoo by train is to take the N, R, or W trains to the Fifth Avenue/59th Street Station. From there, it’s just a short 5-minute walk to the zoo’s entrance at 64th Street and 5th Avenue.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to the Central Park Zoo using the N, R, or W trains:
- Board the N, R, or W train and ride it to the Fifth Avenue/59th Street Station.
- Exit the station and head north on 5th Avenue.
- Walk for approximately 5 minutes until you reach the Central Park Zoo entrance at 64th Street and 5th Avenue.
The total travel time from the Fifth Avenue/59th Street Station to the Central Park Zoo entrance is around 5-10 minutes, depending on your walking pace.
Taking the Lexington Avenue #6 Train to Central Park Zoo
Another option for reaching the Central Park Zoo by train is to take the Lexington Avenue #6 train. While this route requires a slightly longer walk, it can still be a convenient choice for some visitors.
Here’s how to get to the Central Park Zoo using the Lexington Avenue #6 train:
- Board the Lexington Avenue #6 train and ride it to the 59th Street Station.
- Exit the station and head west on 59th Street.
- Walk for approximately 10-15 minutes until you reach the Central Park Zoo entrance at 64th Street and 5th Avenue.
The total travel time from the 59th Street Station to the Central Park Zoo entrance is around 15-20 minutes, including the longer walk.
Central Park Zoo Hours and Admission Rates
When planning your visit to the Central Park Zoo, it’s important to be aware of the zoo’s operating hours and admission rates.
Park Hours
The Central Park Zoo’s operating hours vary throughout the year:
- March 29 — November 2, 2024:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- November 3, 2024 — March 2025:
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
The last entry to the zoo is 1 hour prior to closing.
Admission Rates
The Central Park Zoo offers several admission options, with varying prices for different age groups:
| Admission Type | Regular Admission | Limited Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (13 & over) | $19.95 | $13.95 |
| Senior (65 & over) | $16.95 | $10.95 |
| Child (3 – 12) | $14.95 | $8.95 |
| Child (2 & under) | Free | Free |
The “Limited Admission” option provides access to the zoo’s main exhibits, while the “Regular Admission” includes additional experiences and exhibits.
Additional Transportation Options
While taking the train is the most convenient way to reach the Central Park Zoo, there are a few other transportation options to consider:
- Bus: You can take the M1, M2, M3, or M4 buses, which all have stops near the Central Park Zoo.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Hailing a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft can be a quick and convenient option, especially if you’re coming from further away.
- Walking: If you’re already in the area, you can simply walk to the Central Park Zoo, as it’s located within the boundaries of Central Park.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the Central Park Zoo is easily accessible and well worth a visit for any zoo enthusiast.
Conclusion
The Central Park Zoo is a beloved attraction in the heart of New York City, and getting there by train is a convenient and efficient option. Whether you take the N, R, or W trains to the Fifth Avenue/59th Street Station or the Lexington Avenue #6 train to the 59th Street Station, you’ll be just a short walk away from the zoo’s entrance.
Remember to plan your visit according to the zoo’s operating hours and admission rates, and consider any additional transportation options that may suit your needs. With this information, you’ll be well on your way to an enjoyable and hassle-free trip to the Central Park Zoo.
References:
– Central Park Zoo Website
– MTA Subway Map