Beardsley Zoo

About

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo sits on 52 acres in Bridgeport's beautiful Beardsley Park, making it the state's only zoo. Home to more than 300 animals representing species from across the Americas and beyond, the zoo offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

The zoo features a wonderful mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits. You'll find red pandas, spider monkeys, otters, and tigers among the residents. The New England Farmyard gives younger visitors a chance to get up close with domestic animals, while the indoor South American Rainforest building offers a warm, tropical escape any time of year. A carousel and seasonal train ride add extra fun for families.

Beardsley Zoo is more than just animal exhibits. The grounds include a greenhouse, picnic areas, and nature trails that wind through the surrounding parkland. Educational programs run throughout the year, covering wildlife conservation and environmental awareness. The zoo is also actively expanding, with a multi-year renovation of the tiger habitat currently underway.

Planning your visit is straightforward. The zoo is open year-round, with seasonal hours that shift between summer and winter schedules. Parking is available on-site, and the grounds are compact enough to explore comfortably in a few hours. A gift shop and food options are located near the entrance. Membership passes offer great value for families who plan to return, and the zoo hosts private events and birthday parties as well.

Whether you're watching otters play, learning about rainforest ecosystems, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk through the park, Beardsley Zoo delivers a memorable outing. Its manageable size makes it especially welcoming for families with young children and visitors who prefer a less overwhelming zoo experience. The staff's commitment to accessibility and education shines through in every part of the visit.

Accessibility

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is committed to making the zoo accessible for all visitors and has been actively implementing improvements to its accommodations. Wheelchairs are available for rental on a first-come, first-served basis at the zoo entrance. Many of the main pathways through the zoo are paved and suitable for wheelchair and mobility device access.

The zoo offers a downloadable Social Guide designed to help visitors with sensory or cognitive disabilities prepare for their trip. This resource can help families plan ahead and set expectations before arriving. Educational programs are adapted to be inclusive, and zoo staff are trained to assist guests with varying needs.

Service animals are welcome on the grounds, limited to dogs that have been individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, in accordance with ADA guidelines.

The zoo's compact 52-acre layout is an advantage for visitors with mobility considerations, as it allows a full visit without covering excessive distances. Indoor exhibits like the South American Rainforest building provide climate-controlled, covered spaces that are easier to access in any weather.

For the most current details on specific accommodations, including accessible restroom locations, designated parking spaces, assistive listening devices, or sensory-friendly programming, contact Beardsley Zoo directly before your visit. The zoo has noted that additional accessibility changes are being implemented on an ongoing basis, so new features may be available that aren't yet listed on their website.

More accessible places in Connecticut

• Connecticut Beardsley Zoo (Bridgeport)
• Mystic Aquarium (Mystic)
• New Britain Museum of American Art (New Britain)
• Yale Peabody Museum (New Haven)
• Connecticut Post Mall (Milford)
• Harkness Memorial State Park (Eolia Mansion)