Staten Island Zoo | Staten Island

STATEN ISLAND ZOO - COMPLETE GUIDE

Location: 614 Broadway, Staten Island, New York 10310
Contact: (718) 442-3100
Official Website: statenIslandzoo.org (for reference only, not linked here)

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Staten Island Zoo is a compact yet diverse urban zoo, often referred to as “New York City’s Biggest Little Zoo.” Covering approximately eight acres in the West Brighton area of Staten Island, it is a popular family destination known for its extensive reptile collection and strong focus on education and conservation. It is operated by the Staten Island Zoological Society and serves both as a recreational attraction and an educational resource for the community.

HISTORY

The zoo officially opened on June 10, 1936, and was the first U.S. zoo designed specifically for educational purposes. Initially recognized for its vast reptile collection, it has since grown to include a wide variety of mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates. The zoo gained national attention through Staten Island Chuck, its resident groundhog, who serves as the official Groundhog Day forecaster for New York City.

ANIMAL EXHIBITS

The Staten Island Zoo houses over 1,500 animals from more than 350 species. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to reflect the natural habitats of its residents.

Reptile Wing
This is one of the most prominent features of the zoo. It includes one of the largest rattlesnake collections in North America and features snakes, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, and amphibians in highly detailed enclosures.

Tropical Forest
An indoor rainforest environment that includes monkeys, sloths, parrots, tropical reptiles, and amphibians. It provides a controlled climate to mimic the jungle environment.

African Savannah
Outdoor exhibits include animals like zebras, antelope species, and various African birds. The exhibit is structured to resemble the African plains, providing a realistic setting.

Small Mammals House
This area showcases animals such as meerkats, porcupines, otters, and armadillos. The enclosures allow close viewing and interactive experiences.

Kids’ Korral
This is a petting zoo-style area where children can interact with domestic farm animals like goats, sheep, chickens, and rabbits.

Staten Island Chuck
A major attraction is the zoo’s famous groundhog, Chuck, who predicts the arrival of spring on Groundhog Day. Each year, hundreds of visitors and local media gather for this event.

ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES

Conservation Carousel
A hand-carved carousel featuring endangered species, open on weekends and school holidays. Tickets are required for rides.

Zoo Camps and Educational Programs
The zoo offers seasonal camps, scout badge workshops, field trips, and interactive programs for children. These focus on zoology, ecology, and conservation practices.

Special Events
Annual events include Groundhog Day, Halloween celebrations (such as Boo at the Zoo), Earth Day activities, and holiday-themed exhibits during winter.

Birthday Parties and Private Rentals
Facilities are available for party packages and private event rentals, which include animal demonstrations and guided tours.

EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION INITIATIVES

The Staten Island Zoo emphasizes education through on-site classes, school outreach programs, and public workshops. It also participates in national conservation efforts, including:

Species Survival Plans for endangered animals

Wildlife rehabilitation and rescue partnerships

Promotion of biodiversity and habitat preservation

Its programs aim to foster awareness of global and local environmental issues.

ADMISSION INFORMATION

Operating Hours
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM. Last entry is at 4:00 PM.
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Admission Fees

Adults (ages 15 and up): $12.00

Children (ages 3 to 14): $8.00

Seniors (ages 60 and up): $9.00

Children under 3: Free

Free Admission: Wednesdays after 2:00 PM

Group Rates and Advance Reservations
Discounted rates are available for groups of 15 or more with advance registration.

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

Membership provides unlimited free visits and additional perks.

Individual Membership: $80 per year

Family Membership (2 adults and children in household): $120 per year

Grandparents Membership: $100 per year

Gold Card (includes 10 guest passes and special event access): $195 per year

Lifetime Membership: $500 one-time payment

All members receive early access to events, gift shop discounts, and reciprocal admission to participating zoos and aquariums nationwide.

DISCOUNTS

The zoo offers several discount programs:

Free admission for active military personnel with valid ID

Urban Advantage voucher program participation

Free admission on the first full weekend of each month for Bank of America cardholders

VISITOR AMENITIES

Free parking available at Martling Avenue and Clove Road

Snack stands and vending machines for light refreshments

Gift shop with educational toys, books, apparel, and local souvenirs

Stroller and wheelchair accessible pathways

Restrooms with baby-changing facilities

DIRECTIONS AND TRANSPORTATION

By Car
Accessible from Brooklyn and New Jersey via the Verrazano-Narrows, Goethals, Bayonne, or Outerbridge crossings. Parking is free.

By Public Transit
From the Staten Island Ferry terminal, take the S48 bus to Forest Avenue and Clove Road, followed by a short walk.
From Brooklyn, take the S53 bus to Broadway and Clove Road.