Roger Williams Park Zoo

Roger Williams Park Zoo is New England's oldest zoo and a perfect family destination featuring over 100 species from around the world. Kids will love exploring diverse habitats from the African Savanna to the Rainforest exhibit, plus riding the vintage carousel and taking a scenic train ride through the grounds.

• ✓Marco Polo's Adventure Trek indoor rainforest with free-flying birds and monkeys
• ✓African elephant exhibit where kids can watch these gentle giants up close
• ✓Farmyard petting zoo with goats and sheep children can interact with
• ✓Vintage carousel and seasonal train rides around the zoo
• ✓Red panda habitat and snow leopard viewing areas

1. 1.Arrive right at 10 AM opening when animals are most active during feeding times, especially in warmer months
2. 2.Park in the main lot on Elmwood Avenue for closest access to the entrance and avoid the uphill walk from satellite lots
3. 3.Bring a wagon or sturdy stroller as the zoo covers 40 acres with some hilly terrain
4. 4.Download the zoo app before visiting for an interactive map and real-time animal feeding schedules
5. 5.Pack snacks and use the scenic picnic areas near the pond to save money and give kids a break between exhibits

Visit on weekday mornings (Monday, Thursday, or Friday) in spring or fall for smaller crowds and comfortable weather. Animals are more active in cooler temperatures, and you'll have better viewing opportunities before afternoon nap times for both kids and creatures.

Admission is reasonably priced with discounts for children under 12 and memberships available for frequent visitors. The zoo has clean restrooms throughout, food concessions on-site, and most pathways are wheelchair and stroller accessible though some areas are hilly.

The zoo is open year-round with reduced hours in winter (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Summer brings extended hours and special events. Holiday light displays typically run in December. Some outdoor exhibits may have limited viewing in harsh winter weather.

The Grange restaurant on Elmwood Avenue (0.5 miles away) offers farm-to-table comfort food with a kids menu. For casual dining, Los Andes Restaurant (1 mile) serves family-friendly Latin American fare with generous portions.