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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
AUG24

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
Monarch Watch Training
AUG27

Monarch Watch Training

Date
August 27, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Category
Monarch Watch

MonarchWatch is a Citizen Science program that teaches volunteers to tag and record Monarch Butterflies. Your contribution will help scientists collect very valuable data to study the population and its migration patterns down to Mexico for the winter season.

Click here to register for the August 27th session at 7pm via Zoom.

7:00 PM
Sky Hunters in Flight
AUG29

Multi-DayAug 29–31

Sky Hunters in Flight

Date
August 29–31, 2026

2 shows per day         
11:00am, 2:00pm
Location:  Red Barn, Amphitheater  

Experience the thrill of birds of prey in action as Skyhunters in Flight returns to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo for a limited summer engagement!

Presented by expert handlers Brian and Teddy Bradley, this dynamic show brings you face-to-face with majestic raptors as they soar, glide, and demonstrate their incredible natural abilities. From powerful wingspans to precise hunting skills, each presentation offers a fascinating look at these remarkable birds and the important role they play in our ecosystems.

Shows take place daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM at the Red Barn Amphitheater, giving guests multiple opportunities to catch this unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to see these awe-inspiring birds up close - only here for a limited time this summer!

Zoo Tots: Welcome Fall! (Session 1)
SEP3

Zoo Tots: Welcome Fall! (Session 1)

Date
September 3, 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.

Learn More

10:30 AM
National Wildlife Day
SEP4

National Wildlife Day

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

National Wildlife Day celebrates the incredible diversity of wildlife and the importance of protecting species and habitats around the world. Visit the Zoo and learn how conservation actions—big and small—help wildlife thrive.

9:00 AM
Monarch Watch Training
SEP4

Monarch Watch Training

Date
September 4, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Category
Monarch Watch

MonarchWatch is a Citizen Science program that teaches volunteers to tag and record Monarch Butterflies. Your contribution will help scientists collect very valuable data to study the population and its migration patterns down to Mexico for the winter season.

Click here to register for the September 4th session at 7pm via Zoom.

7:00 PM

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