60 Morgan Road
Binghamton, NY 13903
(607) 724-5461 x 300
Gift Shop Phone
10 AM - 4 PM
7 Days a Week *Last Admission 3pm
Binghamton, NY 13903
Gift Shop Phone
7 Days a Week *Last Admission 3pm
FAQ
If you should have additional questions, please contact us!
These are our most frequently asked questions about visiting the Ross Park Zoo.
You may find our admission hours by visiting our hours and directions page. In the event of inclement weather, the zoo may close and a notice will be posted on our social media pages.
We recommend setting aside at least one hour for your visit.
Yes. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted within the zoo. Feeding of the animals is strictly prohibited due to health and other hazards.
For the health and safety of our animals and other guests, smoking is prohibited within the Ross Park campus.
At Ross, we adhere to strict guidelines and commitments, including Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and conservation initiatives. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept donated exotic pets or wildlife from individuals due to our focus on maintaining the genetic diversity and sustainability of endangered species as outlined in our conservation programs.
We recommend contacting local animal rescue organizations, wildlife rehabilitators, or appropriate authorities who specialize in the care and rehoming of exotic pets or wildlife. They may be better equipped to address your specific needs and provide the necessary assistance.
While the Ross Park Zoo cannot directly assist with wild animals in distress due to legal constraints on animal acceptance, we can offer guidance. We align with the DEC’s (Department of Environmental Conservation) principle of “If You Care, Leave It There.” However, recognizing the compassionate nature of animal lovers, we acknowledge that the desire to help is sometimes irresistible. If you suspect the animal in question is injured, distressed, or orphaned, we recommend contacting one of the Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators in the area. These dedicated individuals are committed to aiding wildlife in need. Below, you’ll find a list of resources for wildlife rehabilitators.
New York State Rehabilitator Locator:
https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/83977.html
Cornell University’s Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Health Center:
607) 253-3060
Animal Help Now:
No. Pets of any kind (including dogs) are strictly prohibited on zoo grounds with the exception of service dogs. Please also be mindful of leaving pets in your vehicle while visiting the zoo. It is not permitted, and we will ask you to leave.
At Ross Park Zoo, we are committed to providing exceptional service to all our visitors, including those accompanied by service animals. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is specifically defined as a dog that is individually trained to perform tasks or do work for a person with a disability. These tasks must be directly related to the individual’s disability and are intended to assist them in their daily life. Examples of such tasks include alerting a person with diabetes to blood sugar levels, reminding someone with depression to take medication, or assisting a person with epilepsy during a seizure.
Here you’ll find commonly asked questions about accessibility at the zoo.
Unfortunately, we do not offer electric scooter rentals due to the steep terrain of our park, which may pose challenges for scooter navigation.
However, we are committed to ensuring that all guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. To assist patrons with mobility challenges, we provide alternative options:
Tram Service: We offer a tram service that can transport guests to the top of the hill. Please note that tram service must be arranged in advance. Guests can then walk downhill.
Wheelchair Rental: We provide wheelchairs free of charge for guests who require assistance. It’s important to note that while wheelchairs can aid in mobility, someone must be physically capable of pushing the patron up the hill and controlling their movement on the way back down.
Our 9-passenger electric van (“tram”) has a wheelchair ramp making it possible for individuals with mobility issues to enjoy time at the zoo. To reserve a tram ride, please call our gift shop at least 24 hours in advance at (607) 724-5461 x300.
A limited number of complimentary wheelchairs are available upon request.
Strollers are available to rent for $2.00 each.
Here you’ll find our top questions for services and facilities at the zoo.
Our Leopard Spot Snack Shack is our seasonal concession stand open weekends in April and May and every day June-August, offering hot dogs, nachos, and cool ice cream treats like Dippin’ Dots, along with refreshing soft drinks. The Leopard’s Spot is conveniently located across from the picnic tent and playground in the upper zoo.
First Aid is available at the ticket booth and main office. To find these areas, please click or tap here to see our map.
No. We accept both cash and credit cards at the ticket booth, Leopard’s Spot Snack Shack, and Zoovenirs Gift Shop.
And finally, some additional questions we’re frequently asked.
Please see our gift shop for any missing items. If your missing item has not been found, please let a staff member know along with your name and number and if it is found after you have left the zoo, we will contact you by phone.
Yes! The Ross Park Zoo offers several membership options. Visit our membership page to learn more.
The Ross Park Zoo has discounts for military personnel, college students, and seniors. Visit our admission prices page for more details.
Additionally, several special events and promotional days throughout the year offer reduced admission rates. Follow us on social media, or visit our upcoming events page, to stay up to date on these specials.
All visitors are welcome to take photos and/or video for personal use. Commercial photography requires prior approval from our marketing department. The Ross Park Zoo will occasionally take photos or video of visitors for educational and promotional purposes. Entry into the Ross Park Zoo grants permission for the use of these images.