The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the United States, and its main entrances play a crucial role in providing visitors with a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re arriving by car, bus, or subway, understanding the Bronx Zoo’s main entrance options can help you plan your visit and make the most of your time at this iconic attraction.

Navigating the Bronx Zoo’s Main Entrances

The Bronx Zoo has two primary entrances: the Southern Boulevard entrance (Gate C) and the Bronx River entrance (Gate B). Each entrance offers its own unique advantages, and the choice of which one to use will depend on your mode of transportation and personal preferences.

Southern Boulevard Entrance (Gate C)

The Southern Boulevard entrance, located at 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10460, is the recommended entrance for visitors arriving by car. This entrance is easily accessible via GPS and provides ample parking options, including two main parking lots.

Parking at the Southern Boulevard Entrance

The Bronx Zoo’s parking lots can fill up quickly, especially on peak attendance days. To avoid potential delays, it’s recommended to arrive early and allow extra time for parking. In addition to the Zoo’s main parking lots, alternative parking locations, such as Fordham University, may be available when the Zoo’s lots are full.

Bronx River Entrance (Gate B)

The Bronx River entrance, located at Exit 6 off the Bronx River Parkway, is the preferred entrance for visitors using public transportation. This entrance is served by the BxM11 express bus, which travels directly from Manhattan to the Zoo’s Bronx River entrance.

Public Transportation Options

In addition to the BxM11 express bus, visitors can also access the Bronx Zoo via local buses, such as the Bx9 or Bx19, which stop at 183rd Street and Southern Boulevard. The Q44 bus from Queens also stops at 180th Street and Boston Road, with visitors needing to walk north to the Zoo’s Asia gate entrance (Gate A). The #2 subway to Pelham Parkway is an ADA-accessible route, with visitors heading west to the Bronx River entrance (Gate B).

Accessibility and Stroller Restrictions

The Bronx Zoo is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind, particularly when it comes to stroller usage.

Stroller Restrictions

Several indoor exhibits and attractions at the Bronx Zoo have year-round stroller restrictions, including JungleWorld, Congo Gorilla Forest, Madagascar!, World of Reptiles, Mouse House, Bug Carousel, and Nature Trek. Seasonal exhibits, such as the Butterfly Garden and Monorail, also have stroller restrictions in place.

Accessibility

The #2 subway to Pelham Parkway is an ADA-accessible route to the Bronx Zoo’s Bronx River entrance (Gate B). The Zoo also offers contactless arrival procedures, including reserving tickets in advance, having ticket barcodes ready for self-scanning, and scanning all tickets for entry.

Health and Safety Measures

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Bronx Zoo has implemented several health and safety measures to protect visitors and staff.

Mask Recommendations

Masks are recommended for all visitors, and some Wild Encounters and other programs may still require masks. It’s important to check the Bronx Zoo’s website for the latest updates on their health and safety protocols.

Contactless Arrival Procedures

The Bronx Zoo has implemented contactless arrival procedures, including reserving tickets in advance, having ticket barcodes ready for self-scanning, and scanning all tickets for entry. These measures are designed to minimize contact and ensure a safe and efficient entry process.

Plan Your Visit to the Bronx Zoo

Whether you’re arriving by car, bus, or subway, understanding the Bronx Zoo’s main entrance options and planning your visit accordingly can help you make the most of your time at this iconic attraction. Remember to check the Zoo’s website for the latest updates on health and safety protocols, stroller restrictions, and other important information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

References:
– Bronx Zoo Plan Your Visit
– Bronx Zoo Know Before You Go
– Bronx Zoo Map
– Bronx Zoo Getting Here
– Bronx Zoo Transit