THE BRONX ZOO

(fun fact courtesy of google. The Bronx Zoo in nyc is the largest metropolitan zoo.  First opened its doors in 1899! for more info read the link ---> wikipedia  )

Ok folks today's stop on this staycation series is The Bronx Zoo or as the zoo likes to call themselves The Wildlife Conservation Society (Sorry thats just way too long! We'll keep calling it The Zoo).  


HOW TO GET THERE:  Number 2 train to Pelham Pkwy... follow the signs... ask around.  Everyone knows where it is... need more info click there ----> Directions

HOW MUCH IS IT:  It's a shit load of money.  Whoops I said shit I apologize but it IS ...  Come prepared to spend.  But if you think of it this way your money is going towards the preservation and conservation of all different types of animal species!... need more info on fees look here ---> Rates 

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:  Ok my suggestion from a local who goes often.  IF and i stress if!  If you are on a budget visit the zoo on a Wednesday.  Wednesday's are suggested fee which means you give what you want.  A dollar (like i do) 5 dollars what ever you want.  HOWEVER here is the deal on wednesdays EVERYONE and their mother will go on that day.  You will have to dodge the millions of school and day camp kids.  Its crowded and also it seems like most exhibits that do NOT charge a fee are CLOSED! UGH

If you can pay the fee 29.50- 33.50 (per person kids under 3 are free) id suggest you do.  You are paying for the Total Experience ticket and of course less crowds.  More space to look at the exhibits calmly. 

The Bronx Zoo is HUGEMUNGUS!  It's very big come prepared to walk!  Sneakers are highly suggested.   During the summer slap on plenty of suntan lotion or wear a hat.  Take lots and lots of water if you are willing to carry it.


 

Main Entrance from Pelham Pkwy Subway Exit

notice the fees if you prefer to drive

Which way to go!?!

 World of Birds

Cafes and Concession Stands

you'll find these through out the Zoo

Bears

Lets Save the Elephants

you guys Elephants are dear to my heart! so many of them still till this day are slaughtered just for the tusks not even for the meat!  96Elephants.org is an organization desparately trying to stop the selling and importing of ivory in the US.  Please be so kind sign the petition.  Check it out here --->http://www.96elephants.org/

Reptiles

check out the artistry and the awesome intricate details on these buildings!

 Somba Village

Zoo Center

Make sure to notice all the original buildings.  The original buildings will show what animals originally use to be kept there.  For example this building here has beautiful details of elephants and rhinos but these are no kept here anymore.  Instead you will find here a Kimodo Dragon.

Madagascar

Here is another example.  Obviously Lions use to be held here now you can visit Madagascar in this building. I paid very close attention to the architecture for the first time EVER on this visit and i am very surprised at the beautiful details that went into these buildings.  I cant believe i never noticed it before.

Monkey House

Again please look at the detail! Beautiful except those aren't monkey's they are Apes duh

Aquatic Birds

A well hidden gem.  Be sure to look for this its near the Seals.  Almost always empty but it leads to a giant bird cage that i always enjoy entering. 

The bird cage

Fordham Road Exit

These gates are made of Bronze!  Over time theyve turned green and can i tell you NOT A SINGLE employee could verify to me what this gate was made of not a one.  But now YOU know. 

long walk home

If you would like to see other staycation ideas check out the following links bellow.  Also feel free to share with friends and family who may be visiting NY for the first time and need suggestions.


NY BOTANICAL GARDEN

SHEA STADIUM

ORCHARD BEACH

AMNH

Rant Section

 

For those of you who are soooo apposed to zoos... cut it out!  These animals aren't mistreated or abused this is not the CIRCUS!  They are cared for by people who have a passion for animals.  Zoos help to raise awareness for crying out loud.  How often will you see a lion or a gibbon?  Probably for most of us never.  The idea is to see how wonderful these animals are in person.  Yes you can see them on tv or read about them in books or watch a youtube video.  But viewing them in person makes these animals tangible.  They are real... they exhist... and WE need to become more conscious of that and help in anyway we can.