Explore Brooklyn: Prospect Park Zoo
Trip Tips
- Weekdays are less busy, except during the school year when there are school visits.
- On weekends early in the day is usually less crowded.
Suggestions for your adventure
- water
- snacks
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- hat
- camera & film
- wipes
- sweater or jacket, if it's cool outside.
- Vending machines for juice, water, coffee, and a variety of snacks are located in the refreshment facility, near the "front" of the zoo.
- There are plenty of tables inside and out, so you can bring a picnic.
- The indoor eating facility includes a microwave, and there are drinking fountains located near the washrooms, also at the "front" of the zoo.
- At home, tell your child you are going to the zoo. Talk about what animals you will see.
- When you arrive, check the schedule for the sea lion feeding. Plan you day so can make it back to see them have lunch.
- Look at the map (PDF) with your child to plan together what animals you want to see.
- Walk through "Domestic Animals" for a close-up look at farm animals, including cows, goats, sheep. You can feed some of the animals yourself!
- Now you may want stop for a bite. There is outdoor seating at the front entrance of the Zoo.
- Try the longer "Discovery" loop to see less familiar animals, like kangaroos, emus, and prairie dogs.
- Stop by the Central Library to find out more about the animals you saw today.
- One the way home, talk about what you saw today at the Zoo.
- Settle down at home for a story and a well deserved nap.
Necessities and getting around…
The zoo is very stroller friendly.Baby changing stations are available.
Picnic ideas/recipes
Animal crackers!Frozen bananas - peel bananas - option: dip in melted chocolate - wrap in foil and freeze overnight
Trail Mix - mix any combination of dried fruit, nuts and chocolate candies; store and serve in plastic bags or sealed cups. Try almonds, walnuts, raisins, dried apricots, banana chips, M&Ms, etc…
Apple Snacks - wash and core apples, fill core with a mix of peanut or almond butter and raisins (1 tbsp raisins per apple). Store in a plastic bag.