Skip to main content

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Get Tickets

OPEN DAILY FROM 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M. LAST TICKET SOLD AT 3 P.M.

Get Tickets

Conservation Efforts

Beardsley Zoo’s conservation initiatives reach local streams, national habitats, and global ecosystems. Through research, hands-on programs, and citizen science, we empower staff, volunteers, and visitors to make a measurable impact.

Support the Zoo

Your contributions—of time, resources, or expertise—help Beardsley Zoo protect wildlife, expand educational programs, and strengthen conservation efforts, ensuring a thriving future for animals and visitors alike.

Upcoming Events

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat
JUL27

Multi-DayMay 22 – Sep 7

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat

Date
May 22, 2026 at 9:00 AM – September 7, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Beginning May 22 and running through Labor Day weekend, guests can explore a special outdoor habitat located just in front of the greenhouse, featuring African spurred tortoises up close. This unique exhibit offers visitors a chance to observe these incredible reptiles in a thoughtfully designed environment that highlights their natural behaviors.

9:00 AM
International Tiger Day
JUL29

International Tiger Day

Date
July 29, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

Celebrate International Tiger Day by learning about one of the world’s most powerful predators and the global efforts working to protect tigers in the wild.

9:00 AM
Chris Rowlands Puppet Show
AUG1

Multi-DayAug 1–16

Chris Rowlands Puppet Show

Date
August 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM – August 16, 2026 at 3:00 PM

3 shows per day            
10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm    
Picnic Grove Stage  

Get ready for music, laughter, and interactive fun as puppet extraordinaire Chris Rowlands returns to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo this season!

A National Audubon singer-songwriter and talented puppeteer, Chris Rowlands brings an energetic blend of live music, storytelling, and whimsical puppetry to the stage. His engaging performances delight audiences of all ages while sharing themes of nature, wildlife, and environmental awareness.

Join Chris on the Picnic Grove Stage for three daily shows at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. Performances run May 23–25 and return August 1 through August 16, offering plenty of opportunities to catch the fun.

Don’t miss this lively, family-friendly experience that combines education, creativity, and pure entertainment!

10:00 AM
International Golden Lion Tamarin Day
AUG2

International Golden Lion Tamarin Day

Date
August 2, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

Visit the Zoo to see our resident Golden Lion Tamarins in the Rainforest Building! Golden lion tamarins are native to forests of Brazil and are classified as endangered, mostly because of habitat loss. Zoos have played a key role in bringing golden lion tamarins back from the brink of extinction.

9:00 AM
Zoo Tots: Rainforest Rhythms!
AUG12

Zoo Tots: Rainforest Rhythms!

Date
August 12, 2026 · 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Category
Zoo Tots

What types of animals live in the rainforest, and how do they communicate with each other? Attend our Zoo Tots session to find out the answer to these questions while meeting a special animal guest! 

​Zoo Tots is a 30 minute program for ages 22 months to 4 years, who are accompanied by an adult.  Activities may include stories, songs, puppet shows, crafts, and live animals.

Learn More

10:30 AM
World Honeybee Day
AUG15

World Honeybee Day

Date
August 15, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

It’s World Honeybee Day, and since these small pollinators are critical to our food supply, the decline of the honeybee is concerning to scientists worldwide.

9:00 AM

What You're Saying

"I love this zoo so much amazing space and animal welfare!The Amur leopard’s enclosure seemed a little small but they are improving that so I love it"

Jarmedo Gaming

"We have gone to the Beardsley zoo in spring, summer and fall and each time it has been a lovely experience. The zoo's exhibits are spaced out which makes for an enjoyable walk. There is an indoor carousel which is $2 per ride and a cafe where you can get drinks and food. There is an outdoor picnic table area next to a playground. The farm yard section tends to be a quieter space. Check out the barn owl. There is also a greenhouse which was nice to explore."

Laura

"Always a great time. The food is honestly incredible too. Shout out to the kitchen staff because you wouldn’t think it, but they are making absolutely delicious food that you can tell they care about."

Joe Mcdonald

"We went to the Beardsley zoo for Mother’s Day. It was free for Moms. We had a great time. All the animals look like they’re well taken care of and safe. It’s clean and there was a lot of great places for pics and I would definitely come back."

Tiffaney Pannozzo

"My kids and I love coming here."

Michael Copenhaver