What are the operating hours for the Rosamond Gifford Zoo?

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Is the Rosamond Gifford Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is largely wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking, restrooms, and paved indoor and outdoor pathways. Push wheelchairs are available for free rental, and motorized wheelchairs can be rented by guests aged 18 and older.

Are outside food and drinks allowed at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo?

Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own refreshments to the zoo, though seating is limited to picnic areas and benches. The zoo also offers dining options at the HoneyBee Café and Jungle Café.

ZooNew York, US

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Nestled within Syracuse's Burnet Park, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo offers an immersive journey into the natural world, showcasing over 700 animals representing 216 species across 43 acres.

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About

Nestled within Syracuse's Burnet Park, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo offers an immersive journey into the natural world, showcasing over 700 animals representing 216 species across 43 acres. From the smallest milkweed bugs to the majestic Asian elephants, this AZA-accredited institution is dedicated to connecting visitors with wildlife through engaging experiences and exceptional animal care. The zoo expertly blends indoor and outdoor exhibits, providing comfortable viewing opportunities year-round, regardless of the weather.Visitors can embark on the half-mile Wildlife Trail, an outdoor loop that winds past diverse habitats, revealing fascinating creatures like Amur tigers, snow leopards, and red pandas.

The Helga Beck Asian Elephant Preserve is a true highlight, an approximately seven-acre area designed to provide the elephant herd, including "miracle eletwins" Yaad and Tukada, with an enriching environment, complete with a 50,000-gallon watering hole. For those seeking warmer climates, the indoor exhibits offer a delightful escape. The Diversity of Birds aviary transports guests to a rainforest setting, bustling with colorful avian life, while the Social Animals building introduces various primates, including Black-and-white ruffed lemurs and Patas monkeys, known for their incredible speed.Beyond the captivating animal encounters, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo actively participates in numerous Species Survival Plans (SSPs), working with other zoos globally to maintain biodiverse populations of threatened and endangered species.

This commitment to conservation, combined with engaging educational programs and state-of-the-art facilities like the new Animal Health Center, makes every visit not just entertaining but also deeply impactful. Whether you're observing a sloth hanging upside down or marveling at the grace of a Humboldt penguin, the zoo provides a memorable experience that inspires a deeper appreciation for our planet's incredible biodiversity. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo, originally known as the Burnet Park Zoo, first opened its doors in 1914, starting as a modest four-acre facility within Burnet Park. It began with a small collection, expanding in 1916 with the addition of stone exhibits for bears and a waterfowl pond. Over the decades, the zoo continued to grow, doubling in size by 1933 and adding a children's zoo and monkey exhibit by 1955.However, the zoo experienced a period of decline in the 1960s and 70s due to financial challenges. In 1979, control of the zoo was transferred to Onondaga County Parks, leading to a comprehensive renovation plan. The old zoo closed in 1982, and a new $13 million facility began construction in 1983, largely funded by the county and the Friends of the Burnet Park Zoo. The revitalized zoo reopened in 1986, earning its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) the following year, an accreditation it has maintained ever since. In 1999, a significant $2 million endowment from the Rosamond Gifford Charitable Corporation led to its renaming as the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park.

What to do here

Enjoy animal chats and feeding times, explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits, and observe animals participating in Species Survival Plans. Don't miss the historic carousel near the entrance.

Seasonal info

Winter: Fewer crowds, and cold-climate animals are more active. Bring a light jacket as indoor habitats can be cool. Spring/Fall: Pleasant weather and active animals with fewer crowds than summer. Summer: Can be crowded, especially on weekends. Arrive at opening. The zoo hosts special events like "Boo at the Zoo" in October and "Wild Winter Days" in January.

Accessibility

The zoo is committed to inclusivity with accessible parking, restroom facilities, and pathways (both indoor and outdoor). Push wheelchairs are available for free rental, and motorized wheelchairs can be rented by guests 18+ (liability waiver and valid ID required, not available during inclement weather). A family bathroom and a quiet/nursing room are also available. Service animals are permitted in most areas, with some indoor exhibit restrictions due to animal welfare.

Don't miss

Helga Beck Asian Elephant Preserve

Witness the multi-generational herd of Asian elephants in their expansive, naturalistic outdoor habitat.

Diversity of Birds Aviary

Immerse yourself in a humid, tropical environment filled with colorful finches and other small birds darting overhead.

Primate Park

Observe the quick and agile Patas monkeys, siamangs, and colobus monkeys as they explore their outdoor climbing structures.

Snow Leopard and Amur Tiger Habitats

Catch glimpses of these magnificent big cats, especially active in cooler weather.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Red Fox

Gray Wolf

Snow Leopard

Red Panda

Bald Eagle

Meerkat

Bighorn Sheep

Wood Duck

North American River Otter

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

Arrive early

Especially during peak season or on weekends, arriving right at opening (10 a.m.) helps avoid crowds and ensures more active animal viewing.

Check the event calendar

The zoo hosts various events throughout the year, such as "Boo at the Zoo" and animal birthday parties, which can enhance your visit.

Dress in layers

Indoor exhibits can be cooler, and Syracuse weather can change quickly.

Utilize the free parking

Ample parking is available free of charge at the zoo. If lots are full, street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood.

Consider animal chats and feeding times

These scheduled events offer unique opportunities to learn more about the animals from zookeepers.

Don't forget the carousel

The historic carousel near the entrance is a fun activity, especially for children, and a great way to end your visit.

Frequently asked questions

: The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
: Yes, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is largely wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking, restrooms, and paved indoor and outdoor pathways. Push wheelchairs are available for free rental, and motorized wheelchairs can be rented by guests aged 18 and older.
: Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own refreshments to the zoo, though seating is limited to picnic areas and benches. The zoo also offers dining options at the HoneyBee Café and Jungle Café.