UPDATE: Governor Cuomo announced on July 17 that Phase 4 in NYC, which is set to take place on Monday, July 20, will not include indoor activities in malls, restaurants or cultural institutions. As a result, the New York Aquarium's opening has been postponed to a date that has not yet been revealed. The Wildlife Conservation's other attractions will continue with its plans to open to members on July 20 and the public on July 24.
As much as we love livestreams of our favorite animals, we're pretty anxious to see all of the cute critters in-person once again.
And New Yorkers will soon enough! Today, the Wildlife Conservation Society announced that all of its zoos and aquariums will reopen to members from July 20–23 and to the general public on July 24. The participating family attractions are as follows:
- Bronx Zoo
- New York Aquarium
- Central Park Zoo
- The Prospect Park Zoo
- Queens Zoo
This all comes following the news that NYC will enter Phase 4 of reopening on July 20, provided we do not experience any setbacks.
"We are pleased that the Bronx Zoo, New York Aquarium and our other parks will again serve as retreats where guests can connect with animals and nature when we open on July 24 after being closed for 130 days," Bronx Zoo Director Jim Breheny said in a statement. "We will follow all guidelines from New York State and if we need to adjust plans for our opening date, we will."
Things will look a little different this year: Masks are required for all visitors ages 3 and up, online registration is mandatory (similar to a move your favorite theme parks are making), some interactive features will remain closed (such as the Bronx Zoo's Bug Carousel) and food and shopping are available, but locations will differ each day. You can learn more about what to expect online.
If you need us, we'll be counting down until the grand reopening. Come find us hanging out with the red pandas and seal lions when the big day arrives!
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