NYC Arts: The Complete Guide to Art and Culture

The Central Park Zoo provides an adventure for lovers of fauna, flora and architecture. Rebuilt during the late 1980s, and now managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the 6.5-acre Wildlife Center is home to 450 animals representing more than 100 species. Exhibits are organized by climate zones: the Rain Forest, a skylit building containing a simulated tropical forest with an open aviary; the Temperate Territory, a carefully landscaped animal environment that includes a lake with an island of Japanese snow monkeys, a central garden and a sea lion pool; and the Polar Circle, home to penguins, puffins and the ever-popular polar bears. The Tisch Children's Zoo is just north of the Polar Circle area. The Wildlife Gallery mounts changing exhibitions on animal-related themes, while the Zoo School features two classrooms and an auditorium for programs on wildlife education for children and adults.

• Directions: Subway: N, R to 59th Street. Walk up Fifth Avenue to 64th Street to enter Central Park Zoo, or walk through park itself.

• Disability Access: Fully accessible. Call (212) 360-8134 for parking permit for lot next to zoo. Limited number of wheelchairs available on first come, first-served basis.
• Disability Assistance: Tours and programs are tailored to groups as needed.
  Vision: Blind or low-vision accessible. Touch exhibits in Rain Forest and Tisch Children's Zoo.
• Gift Shops: Wildlife-related merchandise
• On-Site Food: Restaurant/snack bar