You’re driving across the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, looking at the skyline, and honestly, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is a tropical rattlesnake. But it's there. Just a few miles off the highway. People always assume the Staten Island Zoo location is somewhere near the ferry terminal or tucked away in some industrial corner of the borough. It isn't.
It’s actually right in the middle of a residential neighborhood.
If you aren't paying attention, you’ll drive right past it. West Brighton is the neighborhood, and the zoo sits inside Barrett Park. It’s a weirdly cozy spot. You have these nice houses with wraparound porches, and then, suddenly, there’s an entrance to one of the most specialized zoo collections in the country. It’s not the sprawling landscape of the Bronx Zoo. It’s small. Compact. Maybe eight acres total. But that's exactly why locals love it.
Getting Your Bearings: The Actual Staten Island Zoo Location
The official address is 614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310.
Don't let the "Broadway" name fool you. This isn't the neon-lit Broadway of Manhattan. This is a tree-lined street that feels distinctly suburban. The zoo is bounded by Broadway on the east, Clove Road on the west, and Martling Avenue to the south. It's basically a green rectangle dropped into a sea of houses.
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If you’re coming from Manhattan, the logistics are kinda legendary for being a bit of a trek. You take the ferry—which is free and great for photos—but then you’ve got a bus ride ahead of you. The S48 or S98 buses are your best bet from the St. George Terminal. They drop you off right near the entrance. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on how many people are trying to get home from work.
Driving is easier, usually. You’ll likely take the Staten Island Expressway (I-278). If you’re coming from Brooklyn, you take the Slosson Avenue exit. From New Jersey, it’s the Clove Road exit. But here is the thing: parking can be a nightmare on weekends. There is a small parking lot on Broadway, but it fills up fast. You’ll likely end up circling the side streets like a shark, looking for a spot in front of someone’s driveway.
Why the Location Matters More Than You Think
The Staten Island Zoo location in West Brighton isn't just a random choice. It’s historical. The land was originally an estate owned by a guy named Colonel Edward Brittin and later Clarence Barrett. When the zoo opened in 1936, it was designed to be an "educational zoo."
Because it’s small, you can see everything in about two hours.
That is its superpower. You aren't hiking five miles just to see a tired lion sleeping behind a rock. Here, the exhibits are intimate. It’s famous for its serpentarium. Seriously, they have one of the most complete collections of rattlesnakes in North America. It’s a little terrifying but mostly fascinating. They have species you’ve probably never heard of, all tucked away in this quiet neighborhood.
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Navigating the Interior
Once you get inside the gate, the layout is pretty straightforward. It’s mostly centered around the Main Building, which is a classic WPA-era stone structure.
- The African Savannah: This is at the southern end. You’ll find the meerkats here. They are the undisputed stars for anyone under the age of ten.
- The Serpentarium: This is located in the west wing of the main building. It’s climate-controlled and very quiet.
- The Children’s Center: This is towards the Clove Road side. It’s where the domestic animals live—goats, sheep, that sort of thing. It feels more like a farm than a zoo.
Common Misconceptions About the Trip
"It's too far." I hear that constantly.
Look, if you’re coming from Queens, yeah, it’s a journey. But if you’re already in Lower Manhattan, the commute is actually a nice break from the noise. The ferry ride gives you a chance to breathe. The bus ride through Staten Island shows you a side of the city that doesn't look like "The City."
Another thing people get wrong is the size. They see the Staten Island Zoo location on a map and think it’s just a playground with some ducks. It isn't. It’s a fully accredited AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) facility. That is a big deal. It means they meet the same standards as the giant zoos in San Diego or Omaha. They do serious conservation work here.
They are particularly famous for Staten Island Chuck. He’s the groundhog. Every February 2nd, the world looks at this specific spot in West Brighton to see if a rodent sees his shadow. It’s a whole production. Even the Mayor usually shows up, though they’ve had some... let’s call them "incidents" with groundhogs in the past.
The Surrounding Area: What Else Is Nearby?
If you've traveled all the way to the Staten Island Zoo location, don't just leave immediately after seeing the snakes. You’re right next to Clove Lakes Park.
Clove Lakes is gorgeous. It’s got these massive glacial ponds and some of the oldest trees in the city. There’s a bridge there that looks like it belongs in a period drama. You can rent a rowboat or just walk the trails. If you’re hungry, the Stone House at Clove Lakes is right there. It’s a bit fancy, but the view of the water is worth it.
If you want something more low-key, just walk down Broadway. There are plenty of pizza spots and delis where you can get a massive sandwich for half the price of anything in Midtown.
Expert Tips for Your Visit
- Check the weather. Since the zoo is small, a lot of the best stuff is indoors (like the reptiles and the aquarium section), but the walk between buildings is totally exposed. If it rains, you're going to get wet.
- Wednesday is the magic day. After 2:00 PM on Wednesdays, admission is pay-what-you-wish. It gets crowded with school kids, but if you're on a budget, it's the best time to go.
- The Otters. Find them. They are near the entrance. They are incredibly active and usually much more entertaining than the bigger animals.
- Use the Clove Road entrance if Broadway is packed. Sometimes the secondary entrance is easier for drop-offs if you're using a ride-share app.
The Reality of the "Small Zoo" Experience
Honestly, the Staten Island Zoo location offers something the bigger parks can't: accessibility. You don't need a stroller strategy. You don't need a map that looks like a tactical military guide. You just walk in, see some cool animals, and walk out.
It’s a bit nostalgic. It feels like the kind of place that’s been part of the community forever, because it has. You’ll see local families who have been coming here for three generations. There is a sense of ownership in the neighborhood.
The animal care is top-notch. You can tell the keepers actually know these animals. Because the footprint is small, the interaction feels more personal. You might catch a keeper talk where you’re one of only three people listening. You can ask questions. You can actually see the scales on the lizards.
What’s New in 2026?
The zoo has been working on upgrading the habitats to be even more immersive. The focus has shifted heavily toward "vulnerable" species. They aren't trying to squeeze an elephant into a small lot; they are focusing on smaller animals that they can give a world-class environment. The Amur leopards are a great example. They are stunning, and the habitat design allows you to get a really clear view without disturbing them.
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Actionable Steps for Your Trip
To make the most of the Staten Island Zoo location, follow these specific steps:
- Download the S48 Bus Schedule: If you’re taking the ferry, don’t wing it. The buses run frequently, but timing the ferry exit with the bus arrival will save you 15 minutes of standing on a concrete pier.
- Target the "Snug Harbor" Combo: If you’re making a day of it, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center is only about a 5-minute drive (or a slightly longer bus ride) away. It’s got the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, which is breathtaking.
- Pack Light: There aren't many lockers. The zoo is compact, so carrying a giant backpack will get annoying fast while navigating the indoor galleries.
- Check the Groundhog Status: If it's anywhere near February, check the zoo’s website. They often have special events or restrictions leading up to the big day.
- Prepare for "The Hill": The zoo is built on a slight incline. It’s not a mountain, but if you have mobility issues, start at the top (near Broadway) and work your way down toward the Clove Road side to keep it easy on the knees.
The Staten Island Zoo might not have the "fame" of Central Park or the "prestige" of the Bronx, but it’s a legitimate hidden gem. It’s a place where you can actually hear yourself think while looking at a King Cobra. In a city of 8 million people, that’s a rare thing. Get on the ferry, grab a bus, and see it for yourself. It’s worth the trek.