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Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

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

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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.

Featured Events

Fairy Tails Day

Fairy Tails Day

Saturday, September 12
Beardsley Zoo will soon transform into a whimsical wonderland for a day where children can bring their favorite storybook characters to life!

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Zoom at the Zoo

Zoom at the Zoo

Saturday, September 26
Guests will enjoy a curated showcase of luxury, specialty, vintage, classic, and modern vehicles displayed throughout the Zoo, along with interactive experiences and activities in a unique outdoor setting.

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GLOW Wild

GLOW Wild

Thursday - Sunday, 5:30pm - 9:30pm, October 1- December 20
Journey through a breathtaking wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns inspired by wildlife from around the world!

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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.

We’re thrilled to announce that work has officially begun on the Red Panda Playground!

Featuring a 13-foot panda climbing sculpture, bamboo swings, and sensory activities, this new space will bring even more opportunities for kids to play, explore, and learn at the Zoo. Construction is expected to wrap up by the end of September and will not impact your zoo experience. Thanks for your patience as we build something BIG!

Coming Up

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat
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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.

Fairy Tails Day
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Fairy Tails Day

Date
September 12, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo will soon transform into a whimsical wonderland for a day where children can bring their favorite storybook characters to life! On Saturday, September 12th, the Zoo will host Fairy Tails Day, a fantastical event filled with enchanting activities for kids of all ages, including a face paint and glitter bar! Visit Princess Tiana, Belle, Ariel, Snow White, Cinderella, and Supergirl & Superman!

Thank you to our Sweet StoryBook Sponsor: Pediatric Healthcare Associates.

American Red Wolf Day
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American Red Wolf Day

Date
September 14, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

The American red wolf is the rarest wild animal in the US and the most endangered wolf in our nation and the world. Red wolves have the incredible power to shape the landscape in a way that benefits plants, animals, and people. Their presence has a domino effect on their surroundings, leading to a balanced ecosystem. On September 14, Zoo Educators will be on site at our American Red Wolf Exhibit, to share artifacts and to discuss this highly endangered species.

Evening Lecture Series - Bat Basics and Recent Research
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Evening Lecture Series - Bat Basics and Recent Research

Date
September 16, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Category
Education

An informative talk by Southern Connecticut State University biology professor Miranda Dunbar, covering bat biology and recent research.

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Zoo Tots: Welcome Fall! (Session 2)
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Zoo Tots: Welcome Fall! (Session 2)

Date
September 17, 2026 · 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Category
Zoo Tots


What environmental changes occur when summer turns into fall? How do animals adapt to these changes? Join us for our September Zoo Tots session to learn the answers to these questions while meeting some of the Zoo’s ambassador animals!​

​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.

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International Red Panda Day
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International Red Panda Day

Date
September 19, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

Held on the third Saturday in September, the Zoo is happy to celebrate International Red Panda Day! The Red Panda is classified as Endangered by the IUCN due to human caused threats like deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and the illegal pet trade. Visit the zoo and meet Zoo Educators at our Natt Family Red Panda Habitat and learn about these adorable animals from 1-3pm.

What You're Saying

"Beardsley zoo is just a mini zoo, but it's beautiful with various animals plus the beardsley park is also beside it. It's beautiful to take your family there ❤️"

Luke Brissett

"Fun place for a kid. Small zoo. Clean, friendly. Fun for the carousel."

Matthew Recore

"Amazing zoo. Loved it"

joe berg

"Was a little busy but evened out as we went along but it was the weekend. Staff were very courteous. Animals looked very happy and content. Perfect place for my my 5-year-old's birthday"

Ashley Lenart

"Great family friendly zoo"

Paul Heindl