Stilt walkers and wildlife puppets lead costume parades through Astor Court while a brand-new hay maze and challenge trail fills the Butterfly Patio. Boo at the Zoo layers keeper-led Animal Chats at Tiger Mountain and Big Bears on top of carnival games, a palm-oil-free candy trail and a pumpkin garden built for photos. If your kids want one Halloween-season outing that is also a full zoo day, this opening weekend is the one to book.
What to expect
Activities are clustered around Astor Court, the Butterfly Patio, Rhino Garden and the Dancing Crane Pavilion, so you can build a loop past the animals between stops. Parades run several times a day, Animal Chats are scheduled at specific exhibits through the morning and early afternoon, and face painting runs all day for kids 3 and up.
Good to know
- Reserve tickets online in advance; this year's Boo tickets are not timed, so you can arrive when it suits you.
- Costumes are encouraged and the parade route is at Astor Court, near the center of the park.
- The 2 and 5 trains to West Farms Sq–E Tremont Av put you a short walk from the Asia Gate.
- Face painting is free for ages 3 and up.
- Candy on the Rhino Trail is palm-oil-free and runs only for part of the day, so head there early.
- WCS members get in at no extra cost.
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Common questions
Does Boo at the Zoo cost extra?
No. It is included with general Bronx Zoo admission and free for WCS members, but you still need to reserve tickets online.
Should kids wear costumes?
Yes, costumes are welcome and there are several costume parades through Astor Court each day.
Is it only on Halloween?
No. It runs every Saturday and Sunday from late September through November 1, plus Columbus Day Monday.
