A Last Minute Stroll at the Zoo
It was our last day in NYC and the weather had turned a bit cooler, which was far more in line with November than it had been. We had some hours to spend before heading to the airport. And we had time for just one more adventure before saying goodbye. We landed on a last minute stroll at the Central Park Zoo.
Is it a Secret?
If you’re like us, you may not have known there is an entire zoo in Central Park. And we’ve been through multiple times – running, walking and even once on an unfortunate bicycle built for two. We never saw it or even a sign for it but as good adventurers, we felt we needed to know if the legends were true.
Thank you Google Maps
Even using Google Maps, finding the Zoo entrance was a bit tricky but it was so worth it! The regular price for admission is $19.95 but thanks to Stephen’s military service, we got in for half price.
The Artic Animals and Birds
When you first enter, there is a large pool with many swimming sea lions and just behind them, are the Artic birds.
The Bear Trio
All Grizzly bears but in VERY different moods. To us, it looked like the first one was chilling in a hot tub and the last one, was a grumpy pacer and the middle one, was in a “medium” mood. I think all they needed was some porridge and a blonde girl to complete the fable.
Views in the Aviary
The aviary was FULL of surprises. First, check out these beautiful crested birds. I was SO SURPRISED to discover that they are actually crested PIGEONS! I really thought they would be something way more exotic. We almost completely missed the green guy in the middle. And check out the flying foxes hanging from ceiling. (I love bats, by the way!)
The Little Mammals
We had a few other fun finds on our stroll. On the left is a ringed mongoose. I had never spied one of these in real life and they didn’t look nearly as vicious as their reputation. On the right is a tiny little animal that looks like a deer. We couldn’t find it on the signs nearby and the nearest I can find is something called a “pudu”.
Other Fun Things
The zoo also has a 4D theater and a Children’s Zoo where you can pet and feed the animals. As with most animals, they were WAY more interested in food that friends.
It was appropriate we ended our adventure at the Children’s Zoo because, I’m apparently 5 years old. I asked Stephen to take this picture of me, which I’ve entitled “Deez Nuts”.
We hope you enjoyed this hidden gem in NYC and that you have so much fun getting ready for the holidays. Hey, why not give subscription to the Travel Oracle to a friend with wanderlust? After all, it’s free and our weekly newsletter is full of curated content and good vibes!
