Animal lovers find their haven here in Central New York. From petting zoos to adventure parks, you’ll find the perfect animal adventure in CNY.
Animal Adventure Park
Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, New York, allows visitors an interactive and educational experience when they explore the grounds. This park allows for hands-on animal encounters with many domestic and exotic animals. You can even book an appointment to have one on one time with a sloth, otters and penguins. Fun fact about Animal Adventure Park is that they are the former home to the famous April the Giraffe who gave birth to her baby live on YouTube in front of millions of viewers.
Ross Park Zoo
You can find Ross Park Zoo in the heart of Binghamton. Formed in 1966, the Southern Tier Zoological Society has overseen the operation and maintenance of the zoo since 1977. The zoo’s primary goal is to educate and raise awareness to visitors through engaging experiences, the importance of nature and the conservation of endangered species. The zoo has over 100 animals to learn about and discover.
Utica Zoo
The Utica Zoo is another location where you can channel your inner animal lover. The zoo has created unique experiences and promotes public appreciation of wildlife through education, conservation and recreation. The zoo has been part of Oneida County for over 100 years! Utica Zoo cares for over 200 individual animals that represent nearly 100 species.
Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo
Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo offers families an engaging and interactive experience with animals of all kinds. Visitors can feed and mingle with tame deer and go inside the baby pygmy goat play yard to hold and cuddle animals. Don’t forget to pack your picnic basket so you can enjoy your lunch in their Twin Pine Picnic Grove. As you travel around the park, you’ll see wallabies, emus, bison, spider monkeys, lemurs and an arctic fox, to name a few.
The Wild Animal Adventure Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of Madison County, you’ll find The Wild Animal Park. Due to growing up on a farm surrounded by animals, owner Jeff Taylor knew having a zoo of his own that educated the public was his passion. This 14-acre zoo gives guests a fun family- and animal-focused experience. The park has a variety of exotic and domestic animals from all over the world.