One of our family traditions is that we go to the Bronx Zoo between Thanksgiving and Christmas to see the Holiday Lights. Just because most of the animals are keeping warm somewhere doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to see and do at the Bronx Zoo during December.
There are many family-friendly events in New York City during the winter holidays. What puts the Bronx Zoo ahead of all of them is that families can take their time and not have to be overwhelmed by crowds due to the large layout of the zoo. Visitors can casually walk around and observe the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
As you can expect, the lights are incredible. Lighted animals greet passersby at almost every area of the zoo. There are also colorful lights hanging on trees and trippy tunnels. My kids love pointing out all the animals, while I appreciate the decorations. There are also entertainers on stilts, dancers, and ice sculptures. The bug carousel is open all year long and is always a must-stop.
For a list of animals you can still see, click here.
One of our favorite moments of visiting the Bronx Zoo when its cold is making S’mores and drinking hot chocolate. Thankfully, there are plenty of bathrooms to wash off the sticky marshmallow that all parents hate. Hot chocolate is a must at the Bronx Zoo. If you’re trying to keep a low budget, visitors can bring a thermos of their own.
The holiday lights are available for viewing until January 7th, 2024.
To purchase tickets, click here.
Other things to do in NYC:
Wonderland Dream: Where Visitors Become Art
Spyscape: Spying and solving in NYC
Visiting Madame Tussauds
Batman X at Spycape
Rise NY
History of the Liberty Pole in City Hall Park
History of Bowling Green’s Fence
Visiting St. Paul’s Chapel
Gaming at the Paley Center
Harry Potter NY
Great Jones Distilling
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Moulin Rouge on Broadway
Unmarked Slave Burial Ground
Hamilton Dueling Grounds
List of Museums in NYC that are free or have suggested prices
Visiting the Guggenheim with my Toddler
Visiting the MoMA with Kids
Visiting Hamilton Grange
Visiting Grant’s Tomb
Visiting the American Girl Store
Live Music at Arlene’s Grocery
Looks like alot of fun.