Bronx Zoo
Well, as you probably already figured out, this post is going to be discussing one of the biggest tourist attractions located in the Bronx, the Bronx zoo. The Bronx zoo is not only known for being the biggest metropolitan zoo in the United States, but it is one of the world’s largest zoos. It comes equipped with a diverse variety of animals including Alaskan grizzly bears, Himalayan snow leopards, Malayan tigers, and much much more.
The Bronx zoo was actually Dani and my first visit to the Bronx. The two of us decided to go to the zoo a couple weeks ago on a Wednesday afternoon. For those that are not familiar with the area, the Bronx zoo is free every Wednesday and is a prime time to visit. There are other attractions that can still cost money, but the admission is completely free.
Anyway, living in upper Manhattan, the best way for us to travel to the zoo was by catching the BxM11 express bus that has stops along Madison Avenue between 26th and 99th street. In order to check for the closest bus stop near you, you can just google the BxM11 bus schedule. We caught the bus up by 99th street and our ride lasted about 30 minutes. Coming back, we used google maps to take an alternative route home. My only caution is to be a little early to the bus stop. Our bus was running ahead of schedule and we had to literally run a couple blocks to catch up with it. Other than that, the bus ride worked perfectly and we got there without any problems.
I think one of the biggest concerns about going to the Bronx zoo would be whether or not it is safe. Bronx has a connotation of being the most dangerous borough, but I could disagree with that assumption. Sure the Bronx has it’s fair share of crime and gang related violence, but every part of New York City can be dangerous if you are not cautious. Dani and I went alone to the zoo and we had never been to the Bronx before. I would have preferred having a bigger group or at least having a guy with us, but the zoo is on the edge of the Bronx and is in a pretty safe area. I would just caution to not go to the Bronx zoo alone and to be aware of your surroundings. Overall, I felt pretty safe and once we got to the zoo, I didn’t worry at all.
Well, I hope all this information has been helpful. I highly advise all visitors of New York City to check out the Bronx zoo. It is beautifully kept with a large variety of animals and artfully crafted buildings. Even just a couple hours at the zoo is even to have a worthwhile experience worth the time and effort it takes to get there.
(Side note: City buses cost either $3.00 per ride or can be used just by swiping your subway metro card).
