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A comprehensive guide on getting to the Bronx Zoo

Where is the Bronx Zoo located

Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, USA | Find on Maps

Closest landmark: New York Botanical Garden (1770m away)

The Bronx Zoo is located within Bronx Park, a vast green space in the heart of the Bronx borough.

This urban park is bordered by Southern Boulevard, the Bronx River Parkway, and Pelham Parkway. The zoo is located near the New York Botanical Garden (1770m away), Fordham University (2574m away), and Arthur Avenue’s Little Italy (1609m away).

Getting there by public transport

Local buses from the Bronx

The BxM11 express bus departs from Madison Avenue between 26th and 99th Streets in Manhattan and travels directly to the Bronx Zoo's Bronx River entrance (Gate B). This service operates daily, with buses running approximately every 30 min.

  • Closest stop: Bronx River Gate (Gate B)
  • Local buses from the Bronx: Take the Bx9 or Bx19 bus to 183rd Street and Southern Boulevard. This bus drops you right near the Southern Blvd entrance (Gate C).
  • Local buses from Queens: Take the Q44 bus to 180th Street and Boston Road. From there, walk one block north (turn right on Boston Road) to reach the Asia Gate entrance (Gate A) of the zoo.
Man sitting on a bench in New York City subway station.

Getting to the Bronx Zoo by subway is one of the easiest and most affordable options. From Downtown Manhattan, take line 2 or 5 uptown to West Farms Square–East Tremont Ave Station. From there, it’s just a 5–10 min walk to the zoo’s Southern Boulevard Gate. The subway is a reliable choice for avoiding traffic and is well-connected to other parts of the city.

  • Closest stop: West Farms Square–East Tremont Ave Station, or E 180 St
  • Subway routes: Line 2 or 5  to West Farms Square, East Tremont Ave Station

Getting there by car

Driving routes

Getting to the Bronx Zoo by car is convenient, especially from Downtown Manhattan, with a drive time of 25–40 min, depending on traffic.

The zoo is easily accessible via the FDR Drive and Bronx River Parkway, or via the I-87 Major Deegan Expressway.

Finding a parking spot can be difficult when visiting the zoo on weekends.Take an Uber or Lyft instead to avoid the hassle.

From downtown Manhattan: Head north on FDR Drive, then take the Bronx River Parkway North to the Zoo Exit (Exit 6/6W). Follow signs to the zoo parking entrances.

Parking space in Bronx Zoo

Parking

The Bronx Zoo offers two main parking lots, the Southern Boulevard Lot and the Bronx River Lot. Each lot is conveniently located near different entrances and exhibit areas. If the zoo’s parking lots are full, you can look for alternative parking options nearby, including locations like Fordham University.

  • Cost: Standard parking fee is $20 per car
  • EV charging: EV charging stations are available in the Southern Boulevard Lot
  • Additional options: Street Parking is extremely limited and typically not recommended due to restrictions

How to enter the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo has 4 main Entrances: Southern Boulevard Gate (Gate C), Bronx River Gate (Gate B), Asia Gate (Gate A), and Fordham Road Gate.****

Depending on what transportation you choose to come by, each gate can be useful for entrance or parking.

  • Southern Boulevard Gate (Gate C): This is the zoo’s main pedestrian entrance and the most convenient for public transportation users. It's ideal for first-time visitors and those arriving via subway (2 or 5 lines) or local buses (BxM11, Bx9, Bx19).
  • Bronx River Gate (Gate B): Best suited for guests driving to the zoo, this gate is located right next to the main parking lot. It offers easy access to the Zoo Shuttle stops, making it great for families with strollers or anyone needing easier navigation.
  • Asia Gate (Gate A): Perfect for visitors arriving via the BxM11 express bus. It's less crowded than other entrances.
  • Fordham Road Gate: Ideal for those arriving on foot from the Fordham Metro-North Station or the nearby shopping district.

For accessibility needs, the Southern Boulevard Gate (Gate C) is recommended for level access and ECV rentals.

Best ways to get to the Bronx Zoo

  • By subway: Get off at West Farms Sq–E Tremont Av Station, just a 6-minute walk to the garden. A one-way ride costs $2.90 with a MetroCard. Ideal for budget-friendly solo travellers.
  • By bus: Use the Bronx River Gate – Gate B stop, only a 3-minute walk away. Fares are $2.90 for local and $7.00 for express buses, perfect for locals, commuters, or scenic-route lovers.
  • By car or rental: Park at the Southern Boulevard Lot or the Bronx River Lot. Expect to spend around $20 or more on parking, gas, and tolls. Great for families, group trips, or flexible schedules.

Frequently asked questions about Bronx Zoo directions

What is the easiest way to get to the Bronx Zoo from Manhattan?

The easiest way is by subway, take the subway line 2 or 5 to West Farms Square–East Tremont Ave. From there, it’s a 5–10 min walk to the zoo.

Does the Bronx Zoo have EV charging stations?

Yes, EV charging stations are available in the Southern Boulevard Parking Lot. Check signage or inquire at the entry for exact locations.

Which entrance should I use when arriving by public transport?

The Southern Boulevard Gate and Bronx River Gate are the most convenient for subway and bus users.

How long does it take to get to the zoo from Downtown Manhattan?

Travel time is about 45–60 min by subway, and 25–40 min by car, depending on traffic.

Can cyclists access the zoo easily?

Yes, the zoo is bike-accessible, and bike racks are available near the entrances, especially at Southern Boulevard.

How long does it take to walk from one gate to another inside the zoo?

Walking from the Bronx River Gate to Southern Boulevard Gate can take around 15–20 min, depending on crowd levels.

Is there a designated drop-off point for school or tour buses?

Yes, group buses should use the Education Gate area for drop-off, which is coordinated in advance with zoo staff.

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