Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Connecticut's only zoo, 100 years of wild wonder

📍 Bridgeport, CT

4.4 (5,295 Google)

📍 1875 Noble Ave, Bridgeport, CT

📞 (203) 394-6565

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Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport is a wonderful, manageable-sized zoo perfect for a relaxed day out with your grandchildren! It's delightful because the paths are easy to navigate, allowing for plenty of opportunities to chat and enjoy the animals together without feeling rushed. Little ones adore the New England Farm, the playful antics of the otters and monkeys, and the chance to feed farmyard animals – creating truly special moments. To make your visit smoother, arrive early (around opening time) to secure parking and avoid crowds, especially on weekends!

Grandparent-Friendly Details

Walk-in

Walk-ins welcome

Accessibility

Wheelchair & stroller accessible

Parking

Easy parking

Noise level

Moderate noise

Outdoor seating

Covered / shaded

Typical visit

~2 hours

Best age range

Ages 2–12

Fun Things to Do Here

Ideas to make the most of your visit to Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Animal Bingo

Spot: a sleeping animal, one eating, one near water, one with babies, and the biggest animal you see all day.

Animal Olympics

Debate: which animal in the zoo would win at running? Swimming? Climbing? Best argument wins.

Sketch an Animal

Bring a small notebook. Spend 5 minutes sketching one animal each. No talent required — effort counts.

Zookeeper Questions

Make up what you think the zookeeper's daily job involves. What's the hardest part? The best part?

Feeding Time Watch

Find out what time a feeding happens before you arrive and make it the anchor of the day.

Free printable: Zoo Animal Bingo

Download

Budget & Insider Tips

Grandparent Money Tips

• Annual memberships pay for themselves in 2 visits and often include reciprocal entry at other zoos and aquariums nationwide.
• Pack your own snacks — zoo food runs 3x the normal price. Most allow outside food at designated picnic areas.
• Many zoos offer AARP member discounts alongside military pricing — check before booking online.

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