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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
JUL29

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

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