Zoo New York

Nestled among the scenic hills of the historic Thompson Park in Watertown is a unique destination—Zoo New York. This is not just a traditional zoo, but the only space in the world entirely dedicated to the wildlife of New York State. Across approximately 13 hectares, natural ecosystems have been recreated, allowing guests to glimpse the world of the inhabitants of northern forests and mountains.

Here, you can meet those who are rightfully considered symbols of wild America: majestic black bears, elusive Canada lynxes, gray wolves, and even rare wolverines. Special attention is paid to the theme of the Adirondack Mountains, which is reflected in the landscape design and enclosure architecture. Visitors can see bald eagles and mountain lions in conditions as close as possible to their natural habitat.

For travelers visiting the USA, this zoo is an excellent way to get acquainted with local fauna. Zoo New York is actively involved in the conservation of rare species and educational programs, emphasizing the fragility of local ecosystems. It is a cozy and informative place that combines the functions of an animal rescue center and a modern recreation area.

To contact the administration or inquire about special events, you can use the official communication channels. Zoo New York is always open to questions from visitors.

An amazing opportunity to come "nose-to-nose" with forest dwellers awaits you at this zoo. One of the most popular activities is watching the black bears in their spacious enclosure. Equally interesting is observing the habits of the rare wolverines—these energetic predators always find something to do, delighting children and adults alike.

For fans of panoramic views and history, there is a climb up an authentic Adirondack fire tower. From its height, you get a magnificent view not only of the wolf and mountain lion enclosures but also of the park's surroundings. It is an excellent spot for original photos and for learning how forest fires were monitored in the state in the past.

Strolling through the themed zones, you will encounter majestic bald eagles and Canada lynxes. Thanks to interactive exhibits, you can learn many facts about the biology of local species and the efforts to protect them. After meeting the animals, many visitors head to the surrounding Thompson Park to enjoy a picnic in the fresh air or a walk along its shaded paths.

Finding this wildlife haven is quite easy: it is located at 1 Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601, USA. Most travelers prefer to arrive by private or rental car, as the zoo is situated in the heart of Thompson Park and offers free parking on-site. If you are coming from other cities in the state, the most convenient route is via I-81—the drive from Syracuse takes about an hour.

For those who prefer public transport, buses run within the city of Watertown. The nearest stops are in the downtown area, from where you can take a 5–10 minute taxi ride to the zoo entrance or enjoy a pleasant walk of about 2–3 kilometers. The nearest airport (ART) is just a 15-minute drive away.

When planning your route, we recommend using modern navigation services and setting Thompson Park as your destination. In the summer, the facility is open daily, making it an excellent stop during a major road trip through the northern USA.

The history of this site began in 1920, when a local trust company presented Thompson Park with an unusual gift—two white-tailed deer. This initiative, proposed by attorney George A. Lawyer as early as 1916, marked the beginning of a unique naturalistic exhibit. That same year, the first bear cub named Baco arrived, quickly becoming a public favorite.

Remarkably, children played a massive role in the zoo's development. The Park Zoo Club, founded by kids aged 6 to 12, actively raised funds to purchase new inhabitants and build enclosures for porcupines and raccoons. This community involvement created a special atmosphere of care that still persists a century later.

The 1980s served as a turning point. In 1989, management made the bold decision to move away from keeping exotic lions and monkeys, transferring them to other facilities. The zoo completely changed its concept, transforming into a "nature and wildlife park." The city allocated significant funds for modernization to create the most natural conditions possible for animals native to this part of the USA.

Today, Zoo New York operates as a non-profit organization. Thanks to the efforts of activists and veterinarians, a large-scale renovation in the 1990s converted old enclosures into modern ecosystems. It is not just a place for a stroll, but a true monument to environmental education with a century-long history.

To leisurely explore all the enclosures and meet the zoo's inhabitants, most visitors need between 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to observe the predators' behaviors, read the information boards, and climb to the observation deck of the fire tower.

If you are planning a visit with children or want to complement your trip with a picnic in Thompson Park itself, it's worth setting aside half a day. The surrounding area is perfect for long walks, and the interactive zones within the zoo can keep young explorers engaged for a longer period.

Zoo New York welcomes guests daily, providing a great opportunity for family recreation throughout the week. According to the current schedule, the complex is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Please note that the main peak season is from May to October. During the winter months, the schedule may vary, so it is recommended to check for updates before visiting in the cold season, although standard operating hours remain unchanged for most days.

A visit to the zoo can easily be combined with a walk to other interesting sites in the city. The area surrounding Thompson Park is rich in historical architecture and monuments that help you better experience the spirit of the region.