Charming Small Zoo & Family Favorite in Bridgeport CT

Do you need a family-friendly zoo in Connecticut or fun things to do with kids near NYC or Westchester? Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo offers a relaxed, manageable experience as the state’s only zoo.

Visitors explore a compact 52-acre park filled with animals from North and South America. Highlights include the South American Tropical Rainforest with a free-flight aviary, spider monkeys, and colorful birds. Families love the prairie dog exhibit with pop-up viewing tunnels, the New England Farmyard where kids meet goats, sheep, pigs, and cows, and the Pampas Plain with giant anteaters and Chacoan peccaries. Other favorites feature Andean bears, meerkats, bison, wolves, and hoofstock like deer and pronghorn.

Moreover, the zoo keeps things engaging for little ones. Ride the colorful indoor carousel, visit the wetlands area, or enjoy seasonal events and keeper talks. The layout stays easy to walk, so even young children or stroller users enjoy the day without feeling overwhelmed.

In addition, grab snacks at the Peacock Café or picnic in designated areas. This spot works perfectly for Chol Hamoed, half-day trips, or anytime you want a stress-free animal adventure.

The zoo opens daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last ticket sold at 3:00 PM). It closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

📍 Address: 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610
🕒 Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry 3:00 PM)
🌐 Official Website: beardsleyzoo.org