Central Park Zoo offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to visitors of all ages, from hands-on animal encounters to immersive educational programs. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the Central Park Zoo has something unique and engaging to offer.
Adult Programs at Central Park Zoo
For adults seeking a more immersive zoo experience, the Central Park Zoo offers the “Zookeeping for Grownups” program. This program allows participants to get their hands dirty and assist zookeepers with everyday tasks, such as preparing animal diets, cleaning enclosures, and interacting with small ambassador animals. The program is available on Saturdays and costs $72 for members and $90 for non-members.
Guided Tours at Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo also offers specialized guided tours for classes and groups. These tours are led by expertly trained Tour Guides who facilitate inquiry-based discussions and animal observations throughout the Main Zoo. The tours are available for Pre-K to 12th-grade groups and summer camps, and they cost $175 per group.
Meet an Animal at Central Park Zoo
Another unique experience at the Central Park Zoo is the “Meet an Animal” program. This program offers a private meet-and-greet with ambassador animals, with themes that vary based on grade level and align with educational standards. The “Meet an Animal” program is available for Pre-K to 5th-grade groups and costs $150 (or $100 for early bird bookings).
Interactive Activities at Central Park Zoo
In addition to the guided tours and animal encounters, the Central Park Zoo also offers interactive activities called “Quest Stations.” These stations connect visitors to wildlife and ways to save animals in the wild, and they are available during the summer season.
Feeding Times at Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo is also home to several feeding experiences that allow visitors to observe the animals during their mealtimes. The California sea lions are fed during training sessions that help stimulate them, with feeding times varying depending on the season. The penguins are also fed during sessions where they come out of their dens or up from the deep to bob for fish, with friendly staff and volunteers available to answer questions.
4-D Theater at Central Park Zoo
For a truly immersive experience, the Central Park Zoo features a 4-D Theater that showcases 3-D films with built-in sensory effects. The operating hours for the 4-D Theater are not specified, but it is likely to be available during the zoo’s regular operating hours.
Contact Information for Central Park Zoo
If you’re interested in planning a visit or learning more about the experiences offered at the Central Park Zoo, you can reach out to the zoo’s office, which is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The phone number is 800-433-4149, and the email address is [email protected].
By offering a diverse range of experiences, the Central Park Zoo provides an engaging and educational environment for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in hands-on animal encounters, guided tours, or immersive multimedia experiences, the zoo has something to captivate and inspire every zoo enthusiast.
References:
- https://centralparkzoo.com/learn/adults/adult-programs
- https://centralparkzoo.com/learn/field-trips/tours
- https://centralparkzoo.com/learn/adults
- https://centralparkzoo.com/learn/field-trips/classes/meet-an-animal
- https://centralparkzoo.com/things-to-do/experiences