Getting to Central Park Zoo

Where is Central Park Zoo located

You'll find the zoo nestled in the southeastern corner of Central Park. This prime location makes it a perfect starting point or a delightful stop during a day of exploring the park's many wonders. Its proximity to Fifth Avenue also means it's easily reachable from many other city landmarks.

Address: New York, NY 10021, United States | Find on Maps

Closest landmark: Apple Fifth Avenue (0.3 miles)

Getting to Central Park Zoo by public transport

Line: M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M66, Q32
Several buses provide convenient access to the Central Park Zoo. The M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, and Q32 travel along Fifth Avenue; simply get off at any stop between 59th and 65th Streets for a short walk to the 64th Street entrance. The M66 crosstown bus, which runs eastbound on 66th Street and westbound on 65th Street, is ideal if you're coming from the east or west side. Get off at Fifth Avenue and take a brief walk south.
Closest stops: Any Fifth Avenue stops between 59th and 65th Streets-approximately 5-10 mins walking.

New York's iconic subway system will get you very close to the zoo's entrance. Here are your best bets:

Line: N, R, or W Trains
Take any of these subway lines and get off at the Fifth Avenue/59th Street station. From there, enjoy a pleasant walk north along Fifth Avenue, passing shops and city landmarks.

Closest stop: Fifth Avenue/59th Street station-approximately 5-7 mins walking.

Getting there by car

Driving route

From the George Washington Bridge

• Take the Henry Hudson Parkway (NY-9A) south for about 8 miles.
• Exit onto West 72nd Street eastbound, then continue straight across Central Park West to Fifth Avenue.
• Turn right on Fifth Avenue, drive one block south to East 64th Street; the zoo entrance is between 63rd and 64th.

From LaGuardia Airport

• Merge onto the Grand Central Parkway west, cross the RFK Bridge, then follow signs for FDR Drive south.
• Take Exit 11 for East 63rd Street; at the end of the ramp, bear left onto East 63rd, then turn left on First Avenue.
• Turn right on East 62nd, then left on Fifth Avenue; proceed one block south to East 64th Street.

Parking

There is no on-site parking at Central Park Zoo. You'll need to rely on off-site parking garages in the surrounding area.

LAZ parking at One Lincoln Plaza- Find on Maps

605 Park Avenue valet- Find on Maps

Walking to the Central Park Zoo

One of the most enjoyable ways to arrive at the Central Park Zoo is on foot, allowing you to experience the beauty of Central Park itself.

The Grand Army Plaza Entrance (5th Ave & 60th St): This is a popular and very direct route. Enter the park and head north. You'll soon encounter The Pond, a serene body of water. Continue past it, and in just a few mins, you'll see the Delacorte Clock ahead – listen for its charming animal parade chimes on the half-hour! The zoo entrance is right there.
From Columbus Circle (59th St & 8th Ave): Enter at the southwest corner and wander east. As you get closer to Fifth Avenue, head north into the park. Keep an eye out for signs and maybe even a glimpse of the famous Balto Statue (a little north and west of the zoo) – a tribute to a heroic sled dog. Following the paths towards the southeast will lead you right to the zoo.
Alternatively, you can enter the Central Park Zoo from the intersection of 5th Avenue and East 64th Street. Head through the entrance of the historic, fortress-like building known as The Arsenal, then continue past it to reach the main entrance of the zoo.

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Frequently asked questions about Central Park Zoo directions

What's the main entrance to Central Park Zoo?

The main entrance is at East 64th Street & Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10065.

Where is the zoo located in Central Park?

Central Park Zoo is in the southeast corner of the park. Look for the distinctive archway with the Delacorte Clock above it, right off the main path near 64th Street.

Are there bicycle racks nearby?

Yes, bike racks are located just outside the zoo’s main entrance on East 64th Street, and additional Citi Bike stations can be found at Fifth Avenue & 63rd Street and at East 65th & Madison Avenue.

Is the route from Fifth Avenue wheelchair-accessible?

Fifth Avenue sidewalks are curb-cut and level, and the Arsenal entrance has a ramp. Inside the zoo, paved pathways provide full wheelchair access to all exhibits.

Where should taxis or ride-shares drop me off?

For the quickest drop-off, ask your driver to pull onto Fifth Avenue just south of East 64th Street. There’s a lay-by directly in front of the Arsenal entrance; just a short walk up the steps to the zoo gates.