What are the operating hours for Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo?

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day, and closes at 12:00 PM on the day before these holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can be subject to change due to weather or operational capacity.

Are there accessibility options available at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo?

Yes, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is committed to accessibility. The zoo features paved pathways, making it wheelchair and stroller friendly. Wheelchairs are available free of charge (with a driver's license as deposit), and motorized scooters can be rented. They also provide sensory accommodations such as noise-canceling headphones, social stories, a calm space, and a sensory map. Service dogs are welcome throughout most of the park, though some areas may have restrictions due to animal sensitivities, so it's recommended to check with Guest Services upon arrival.

Does Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo participate in conservation efforts?

Absolutely. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is an AZA-accredited institution and is deeply involved in wildlife conservation. They participate in numerous Species Survival Plans (SSP) for endangered animals like Amur tigers, Amur leopards, red wolves, maned wolves, giant anteaters, and golden lion tamarins, aiming to protect species and preserve their habitats. The zoo also has a Conservation Fund and engages the public through education and citizen science programs like FrogWatch and MonarchWatch.

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Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Nestled within the historic Beardsley Park in Bridgeport, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo offers a vibrant and engaging encounter with wildlife, standing as the state's sole AZA-accredited zoo.

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About

Nestled within the historic Beardsley Park in Bridgeport, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo offers a vibrant and engaging encounter with wildlife, standing as the state's sole AZA-accredited zoo. This welcoming destination provides an immersive journey, primarily featuring animals from North and South America, as well as some Northern Asian species. Visitors can spend hours exploring diverse habitats, from the steamy depths of the Rainforest Building, teeming with South American life like Brazilian ocelots and golden lion tamarins, to the expansive Hoofstock Trail where American bison and pronghorn roam.

The zoo masterfully blends recreation with a strong commitment to education and conservation. As you wander the paved pathways, you'll discover compelling exhibits such as "Predators," home to the magnificent Amur tigers and Amur leopards, and the "W.O.L.F." exhibit, highlighting the conservation efforts for critically endangered red wolves and Mexican wolves. The experience is designed to be both informative and delightful, with opportunities to witness the playful antics of North American river otters in Alligator Alley or admire the majestic Andean condor near the entrance.

Beyond the animal encounters, the zoo offers charming amenities that enhance the visit, including a colorful carousel, a tranquil Victorian Greenhouse with unique plants, and a New England Farmyard where you can connect with heritage farm breeds. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is more than just a collection of animals; it's a place where families can create lasting memories, foster a connection with nature, and learn about the critical importance of wildlife preservation through thoughtfully designed exhibits and educational programs. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo boasts a rich history spanning over a century, situated within Beardsley Park, a landscape designed by the renowned Frederick Law Olmsted in 1881. The concept for a city zoo within the park originated in 1920 with Bridgeport Parks Commissioner Wesley Hayes, who encouraged citizens to donate animals. The zoo officially opened its doors in 1922, initially featuring eighteen exotic birds and animals retired from the Barnum and Bailey Circus, an early connection to Bridgeport's famous showman, P.T. Barnum, who once exercised his circus animals in the park. In 1997, the Connecticut Zoological Society, a non-profit organization, took ownership of the zoo from the city, solidifying its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education. Throughout its history, the zoo has evolved, shifting its focus from merely collecting animals to actively participating in Species Survival Plans (SSP) for endangered species, including Amur tigers, red wolves, and golden lion tamarins, reflecting its dedication to global conservation efforts. The zoo recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022, marking a significant milestone in its continuous mission to inspire a diverse public about the delicate balance of our planet.

What to do here

Beyond observing the animals, engage with the "Passport to Adventure" scavenger hunt via their app for an interactive experience. Look for scheduled animal talks and feeding times to gain deeper insights. Special seasonal events, like "Boo at the Zoo" during Halloween, add unique flair to your visit.

Seasonal info

The zoo is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, closing only on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Hours may be subject to change due to weather, so it's always wise to check their website beforehand. While rain doesn't stop operations, visitors are encouraged to bring appropriate gear.

Accessibility

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is committed to accessibility. The paths are generally paved and stroller-friendly. Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for rent, and the zoo is working to implement further accessibility changes. Service dogs are welcome, though some areas (like between the tiger and leopard habitats) may be restricted due to animal sensitivities. Sensory accommodations like noise-canceling headphones, social stories, and a sensory map are also available.

Don't miss

Rainforest Building

Amur Tiger habitat

Amur Leopard habitat

W.O.L.F. exhibit

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Gray Wolf

Tiger

Ocelot

American Alligator

White Tailed Deer

Pygmy Marmoset

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Purchase tickets online in advance

This is often recommended, and sometimes required, to secure your visit, especially during peak times.

Check the website before your visit

Verify operating hours, special event schedules, and any weather-related closures or changes to exhibit availability.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo has paved pathways, but you'll be doing a fair amount of walking to see all the exhibits.

Consider visiting during off-peak seasons or weekdays: Animals can be more active in cooler weather (spring/fall/winter), and you'll encounter fewer crowds.

Pack a picnic or utilize the Peacock Cafe: The zoo offers picnic areas, and you're welcome to bring your own food. The Peacock Cafe also provides meal options.

Don't forget the carousel

The historic carousel is a popular attraction, especially for children, and requires a separate, inexpensive ticket.

Parking is free

There is a decent-sized parking lot near the main entrance, with an overflow lot available.

Respect the animals and their habitats

Avoid loud noises, tapping on glass, or feeding the animals, as they have specialized diets.

Frequently asked questions

: Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day, and closes at 12:00 PM on the day before these holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can be subject to change due to weather or operational capacity.
: Yes, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is committed to accessibility. The zoo features paved pathways, making it wheelchair and stroller friendly. Wheelchairs are available free of charge (with a driver's license as deposit), and motorized scooters can be rented. They also provide sensory accommodations such as noise-canceling headphones, social stories, a calm space, and a sensory map. Service dogs are welcome throughout most of the park, though some areas may have restrictions due to animal sensitivities, so it's recommended to check with Guest Services upon arrival.
: Absolutely. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is an AZA-accredited institution and is deeply involved in wildlife conservation. They participate in numerous Species Survival Plans (SSP) for endangered animals like Amur tigers, Amur leopards, red wolves, maned wolves, giant anteaters, and golden lion tamarins, aiming to protect species and preserve their habitats. The zoo also has a Conservation Fund and engages the public through education and citizen science programs like FrogWatch and MonarchWatch.