Discover Seneca Park Zoo: A Fun Adventure for the Whole Family
A visit to Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY is one of the best ways to experience wildlife, conservation, and outdoor adventure in the Rochester area. Located within historic Seneca Park, the zoo has welcomed visitors for more than 130 years and has grown into one of New York’s premier family attractions.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the zoo is home to more than 90 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects from around the world. Beyond showcasing incredible animals, Seneca Park Zoo is also a leader in wildlife conservation, education, and species survival initiatives. Whether you’re visiting with children, planning a family vacation, or simply love animals, the zoo offers an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
Table of Contents
- About Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY
- Animal Exhibits and Habitats
- Interactive Experiences
- Conservation and Education
- Planning Your Visit
- Nearby Attractions
About Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY
Located at 2222 St. Paul Street, Seneca Park Zoo first opened in 1894 within the beautiful park designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Today, the 20-acre zoo is operated by Monroe County with support from the Seneca Park Zoo Society and welcomes visitors throughout the year. The zoo is open 362 days annually, closing only on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Visitors appreciate the zoo for its:
- Beautiful natural setting
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Conservation-focused exhibits
- Interactive learning opportunities
- Year-round programming
- Accessibility for all ages
Find out more on the Official Seneca Park Zoo Website.
Animal Exhibits and Habitats
One of the highlights of Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY is the opportunity to see animals from across the globe in thoughtfully designed habitats.
Some of the zoo’s most popular residents include:
- African elephants
- Masai giraffes
- Southern white rhinos
- African lions
- Snow leopards
- Red pandas
- California sea lions
- Polar bears
Visitors can explore themed areas such as:
- Animals of the Savanna
- A Step Into Africa
- Rocky Coasts
- Cold Asia
- Genesee Trail
Each exhibit offers educational signage and opportunities to learn about animal behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
Discover more of the zoo’s residents on the Official Seneca Zoo Animal List Page.
Interactive Experiences
The zoo offers more than traditional animal viewing.
Depending on the season, guests may enjoy:
- Giraffe feeding experiences
- Animal encounters
- Keeper talks
- Educational demonstrations
- Interactive children’s activities
- Seasonal tram rides
- Special family events
- Summer programs
Throughout the year, the zoo also hosts popular events such as ZooBrew, holiday celebrations, educational workshops, and conservation-themed experiences that make every visit unique.
Conservation and Education
Conservation is at the heart of everything the zoo does.
As an AZA-accredited institution, Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY participates in numerous Species Survival Plans (SSPs) that help protect endangered wildlife through breeding, research, and collaboration with other accredited zoos.
The zoo also supports conservation projects both locally and internationally, including:
- Lake sturgeon restoration in the Genesee River
- Pollinator habitat restoration
- Wildlife education programs
- Citizen science initiatives
- Global conservation projects in Madagascar, Borneo, East Africa, and beyond
Every admission ticket helps support these important conservation efforts, making each visit meaningful beyond the exhibits themselves.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your trip, consider setting aside at least two to four hours to explore the zoo.
Helpful visitor amenities include:
- Gift shop
- Café and snack options
- Accessible pathways
- Restrooms
- Family-friendly facilities
- Parking
- Membership options
- Seasonal events
Because the zoo is open year-round, each season offers a different experience, from spring baby animals to colorful autumn scenery and winter wildlife viewing. Current hours, ticket information, and event schedules are available on the official website.
Nearby Attractions
One of the advantages of visiting Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY is its proximity to several other Rochester attractions.
You can easily combine your zoo visit with:
- Seneca Park
- Genesee Riverway Trail
- Ontario Beach Park
- Charlotte Pier
- Strong National Museum of Play
- George Eastman Museum
- Highland Park
- Rochester Museum & Science Center
Planning a weekend getaway? The zoo makes an excellent addition to any Rochester itinerary. Explore more things to do with our Family-Friendly Travel Guide in Rochester.
Where to Stay in Rochester
If you’re planning a trip to Rochester NY, staying in a comfortable location nearby makes the experience even easier.
Our Rochester Places properties offer:
• Fully equipped kitchens
• Comfortable living spaces
• Easy access to downtown attractions
• Convenient locations near museums and restaurants
Browse our accommodations here at Rochester Places.
Seneca Park Zoo Rochester NY is much more than a place to see animals—it’s a destination where education, conservation, and family fun come together. With award-winning exhibits, engaging animal encounters, and a strong commitment to protecting wildlife around the world, it’s easy to see why the zoo remains one of Rochester’s top attractions.
Whether you’re meeting elephants on the African Savanna, watching playful sea lions, or learning about endangered species, every visit supports meaningful conservation efforts while creating lasting memories.