1 / 3Utica Zoo
📍 Utica, NY
A well-maintained mid-sized zoo featuring diverse animal exhibits, special events, and animal encounters. Families love the new otter exhibit, accessible walking trails, and community atmosphere.
Don’t be fooled, there is plenty to see here! You can definitely get your steps in! They also have the ride ons but some areas restrict them so you’ll have to walk or not go through those areas. There are various places to sit throughout and food and snacks available on site. I can say the food was very fresh and it was good, which surprised me. We ordered cheeseburgers and cheese fries. The price is reasonable and tickets can be purchased online. They have experiences available too but you need to book in advance be ire to check their website!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
This is an excellent mid-sized zoo perfect for families with children of all ages, especially those seeking a less overwhelming experience than major city zoos. The venue shines with its special events, accessibility features, and engaging animal exhibits like the playful otters. Best for families who appreciate community feel and don't mind occasional operational hiccups.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,942 Google reviews
S Mack
7 months ago
“Don’t be fooled, there is plenty to see here! You can definitely get your steps in! They also have the ride ons but some areas restrict them so you’ll have to walk or not go through those areas. There are various places to sit throughout and food and snacks available on site. I can say the food was very fresh and it was good, which surprised me. We ordered cheeseburgers and cheese fries. The price is reasonable and tickets can be purchased online. They have experiences available too but you need to book in advance be ire to check their website!”
Nancy Baker
2 months ago
“This is a gem in our small city! We are members and go often. We love to attend the special events like trivia, paint nite, Wine in the Wilderness, Brewfest, and night walks.”
Alexis “Phoenyx” Fields
4 months ago
“I have mobility issues but the zoo was awesome! I've been to zoos all over the country and enjoyed my experience immensely.”
Jackie Adler
6 months ago
“We spent a really great few hours at this zoo in July. The otters were really putting on a show for everyone and I couldn't help but stick around to see what they would do next. So many great animal exhibits, minus the red pandas. The setup made it very dark and impossible to see in at all. Overall great way to spend part of a day. I would suggest visiting the concession stand at off hours though. At lunchtime the line was impossibly long with limited staffing and we opted to eat elsewhere instead.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Utica Zoo features diverse animal exhibits including lions, zebras, bald eagles, camels, and popular river otters. The zoo offers animal encounters with ambassador animals, special events like Wine in the Wilderness and Brewfest, birthday party packages, and educational programs with knowledgeable staff.