Peter D.
Yelp
I am a lifelong fan of the Bronx Zoo. I have amazing memories (and photos) of me running around like a wild animal (as is appropriate) here when I was three or four years old, with friends that I still have.
That said, I did take a twenty five year hiatus or so.* Now, I've been back a few times in the past year or so, because it turns out it's great for kids. And yes, nowadays I'm chasing the three or four year olds, wishing they wouldn't act like wild animals (never appropriate, just like hypocrisy).
Either way, this is a damn good zoo. Far and away the best in New York (although Prospect Park and Central Park also have their merits), and a wonderful place to visit overall. Anyone can enjoy the vast and varied exhibits, and everyone I know seems to have their own favorites. I like just about everything:
Congo Gorilla Forest? Hell yes. Butterfly Garden? Maybe, if your kid doesn't hate the heat like mine does.
Wild Asia Monorail? Incredible for kids, when it's running during the season (April-October I believe).
Madagascar building? A winner, because lemurs (especially if you're fans of the adorable film).
Sea Bird Aviary? Incredible, especially if a bird poops on your wife's head just as she was saying something rude to you. Karma is real, everyone.
Bug Carousel? My kid's absolute favorite right now, and the dung beetle pushing a seat made of poop must've made the creators so happy when they thought of it. It also makes me happy, just thinking of it now.
Peacocks roaming around you while you eat lunch? A lovely and/or terrifying experience, depending on your size in relation to them.
Thanks to my two small monsters, I'm sure I'll be here regularly over the next decade or so, and I can't wait to see all the things I haven't yet, and revisit all the things we already love.
Also, you might as well get a membership. You're supporting an amazing resource, and it pays for itself after two visits.
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*I must admit, the giant rhinos just lying there (really many of the caged animals) make me a little sad, especially after going on an African safari and seeing them in the wild. But my kids love it, and that's what matters.