Prospect Park Zoo is a 12-acre zoo operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) on the eastern edge of Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Home to nearly 400 animals of more than 100 species, the zoo features sea lions, hamadryas baboons, red pandas, North American river otters, Pallas cats, reptiles, hornbills, and free-roaming peacocks. A barnyard area lets younger children get up close with sheep, goats, and cows.
The zoo is open 365 days a year, with doors opening at 10:00 AM daily. Admission starts at $7.95 for children ages 3–12, $10.95 for adults, and $8.95 for seniors. Children under 2 enter free. All tickets must be purchased online in advance via timed-entry reservation. WCS members receive free admission, and NYC ID cardholders can obtain a complimentary one-year WCS membership. Active U.S. military members receive free admission with up to 50% off for three guests.
Families typically spend 1–2 hours exploring the grounds. The zoo is stroller-friendly and pairs well with nearby Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Prospect Park's playgrounds and lake. Note: use the Children's Corner entrance at Flatbush Ave. and Empire Blvd., as the Flatbush Avenue entrance is currently closed.