About
A new hay maze, costume parades with stilt walkers and a pumpkin garden take over the Bronx Zoo — opening weekend, included with admission.
Boo at the Zoo works best for families who want Halloween activities without giving up a full wildlife day. This year’s new hay maze and animal-inspired challenge trail adds climbing, crawling, balancing, and jumping, while new expert-led Animal Chats connect the celebration to the zoo’s animals. Prioritize the hay maze, then make time for the costume parade and its follow-up dance party.
What to expect
Arrive by 10:30am if the tiger Animal Chat matters to you, then make the new hay maze at Butterfly Patio your first Halloween stop when it opens at 11am. Visit the Rhino Trail before 2pm for the children’s candy trail, then choose between the short puppet shows at Giraffe Corner and carnival games, face painting, or a costume parade at Astor Court. A short visit can cover the maze, candy, and one performance; a full day leaves time for seasonal zoo attractions and the animals between activities.
Good to know
- Boo at the Zoo runs Saturdays and Sundays from September 26 through November 1, plus Monday, October 12; most activities run from 11am to 4pm.
- Zoo hours are 10am to 5:30pm on weekends and federal holidays through October 31, while Sunday, November 1 runs from 10am to 4:30pm.
- Boo activities are included with required Bronx Zoo admission, and WCS members can enter regular daytime operations with a valid membership card and photo ID.
- The candy trail runs from 11am to 2pm for children only, with one turn per family while supplies last.
- Some activities are weather permitting, and schedules may change.
Also in the Bronx
Common questions
When does Boo at the Zoo run?
It runs Saturdays and Sundays from September 26 through November 1, plus Monday, October 12, with most Halloween activities from 11am to 4pm.
Does Boo at the Zoo cost extra?
No additional event ticket is required, but every nonmember needs Bronx Zoo admission. WCS members can use their regular daytime membership admission.
What ages is the event best for?
The Bronx Zoo specifically recommends it for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-aged children.
Can children wear costumes?
Yes, costumes are encouraged, and children can join costume parades at Astor Court.
How does the candy trail work?
The Rhino Trail distributes palm-oil-free candy to children from 11am to 2pm, with one turn per family while supplies last.
What is the accessible public-transit route?
Take the 2 train to Pelham Parkway, where elevators reach street level, then walk west to the Bronx River entrance.