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Plan Your Visit

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is a top family destination, home to over 300 animals from North and South America. Meet endangered species like the Andean condor, Maned wolf, Giant Anteater, and more. Enjoy a bite at the Peacock Café, a picnic in the Grove, or a ride on our colorful carousel. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Zoo Map

Use our map to plan your visit and make the most of your time at Beardsley Zoo! It highlights animal habitats, visitor amenities, pathways, and key points of interest so you can easily explore and enjoy everything the Zoo has to offer.

Map of the Beardsley Zoo.

Upcoming Events

Check our calendar for upcoming events, programs, and special activities at Beardsley Zoo. From seasonal celebrations and educational experiences to family‑friendly happenings, there’s always something exciting happening here, so plan your visit and join the fun.

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat
JUL8

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
Rainforest Reptile Show
JUL8

Multi-DayJul 5–18

Rainforest Reptile Show

Date
July 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM – July 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Prepare to be amazed! Back by popular demand, join us for the action and wonder of Rainforest Reptiles Shows for a special treat limited engagement at Beardsley Zoo. Meet rare and astounding creatures from around the globe! Discover their secrets and learn what you can do to protect them and their wild cousins in your own backyard. Shows will take place daily in the Red Barn Amphitheater, with interactive animal artifact stations available throughout the event. Schedule is as follows:

  • Monday–Wednesday: 1 show per day at 12:00 PM
  • Thursday–Friday: 2 shows per day at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM
  • Saturday–Sunday: 3 shows per day at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM

10:00 AM
Zoo Tots: Tots and Talons!
JUL15

Zoo Tots: Tots and Talons!

Date
July 15, 2026 · 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Category
Zoo Tots

What animals have talons, and what purpose do these talons serve? Come to our Zoo Tots session to learn the answers to these questions while meeting one of our talon-ted animal ambassadors! 

​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
Evening Lecture Series - Wolf Conservation: Saving a Species
JUL15

Evening Lecture Series - Wolf Conservation: Saving a Species

Date
July 15, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Category
Education

Led by Andrew Connolly, Outreach Coordinator at the Wolf Conservation Center. In the late 20th century, Mexican gray wolves and red wolves were declared to be extinct in the wild. Through intensive efforts, such as breeding programs and wild releases, these wolves have resumed their rightful places on the wild landscape. Join the Wolf Conservation Center to learn what it takes to help save a species from the brink of extinction, the applications of modern technology to reproduction efforts, and what is next in the fight for survival.​

Learn More

7:00 PM
World Snake Day
JUL16

World Snake Day

Date
July 16, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

Slither over and celebrate World Snake Day with a Kingsnake, Boa Constrictor and more.

9:00 AM
Teddy Bear Festival
JUL18

Teddy Bear Festival

Date
July 18, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Category
Fundraiser

Don’t miss the Teddy Bear Festival, a day of fun and games. Children are invited to bring their favorite plush toy to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital “Clinic” for a health checkup. The day is filled with healthy activities and education. Hugs to Teddy Bear Sponsor: CHET 529 College Savings Program.

10:00 AM

Accessibility

We welcome all guests, and the Zoo is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience. Learn about the services, features, and accommodations available to help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Child sitting in the lap of a man in a wheelchair and pointing at an enclosure.

Still Have Questions?

If you have general questions, feel free to reach out to us at our main number, (203) 394-6565, or use our Contact page to find specific departments or give us more detail about your question by using our form.

Contact Us