The Insiders Guide to Kids Activities in New York City's Bronx Borough

The Bronx borough of New York City is flooded with great activities for kids and adults alike. The Bronx Zoo and The New York Botanical Garden are two excellent activities children (and adults) of all ages will enjoy over and over again.

Both places have special programs and activities especially for children and are available all year around. Here is your guide to kid's activities in the Bronx as well as some insider money saving tips to allow some extra outings throughout the year.

The Bronx Zoo -

One of the largest zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo is open every day of the year. When taking a trip to the Bronx Zoo there are several permanent exhibits every child will want to see. These include the World of Reptiles, The Butterfly Garden, Jungle World, World of Darkness, the Congo Gorilla Forest, and of course The Children's Zoo!

Animals from all over the world live here and allow children the chance to see animals they otherwise would never see. Because of the special design of the zoo, animals are in a habitat much like they would live in when in the wild. Indoor exhibits are designed so you are inside (walking in a walkway or large hallway) and the animals are outside.

The Bronx Zoo has an Education Department which offers programs for children, adults, and families. The office website of The Bronx Zoo has a calendar of events and pre-registration is required.

Other special activities include overnight stays in the zoo where the whole family can pitch a tent and spend the night. Again, pre-registration is required and there may be a wait for your special night as the program fills up fast. If spending the night is not for you, then sign up for breakfast with the butterflies or take a special class all about tigers, gorillas or another special animal.

The zoo also does children's birthday parties. This can be rather expensive ($800-$4,500) but well worth the experience. Call the zoo for more information, or visit them on the web.

Tips to save money at the Bronx Zoo:

-Bring your own stroller if possible. Stroller rentals are available on a limited basis, and the zoo suggests you reserve in advance, but there is $6-$10 charge. Bring your own and save some money.

-Pack a light bag lunch. As with any activity, food gets expensive, especially with several children and adults. Bring food that will be easy to carry and does not require refrigeration. You can save $7-$10 a person. Be sure to bring bottled water (freeze it the night before so it will thaw as you walk for a refreshing drink). Bring some snacks too. Because you will be doing a lot of walking, you will want to bring some healthy and easy to eat snacks, grapes, apples, bananas and granola bars are excellent choices.

-Visit on donation day. Thursday through Tuesday the zoo charges regular admission. Children 2-12 are $10.00 each to get in. Adults are $14.00 each. For a family of 4, the cost can be a quick $48.00...just to get in! On Wednesday the zoo does not charge regular admission, but instead asks for a donation. The zoo allows you decide how much it costs to get in. (If you cannot afford a donation, that is okay too!)

-Frequent Visitors Family Membership. If you live nearby and want to visit the zoo often, consider a family membership (starting at $120.00). Three visits by a family of four will pay for itself!

The New York Botanical Garden -

Does your child love to take photographs, explore, or play in the dirt? The New York Botanical Garden encourages all three! The New York Botanical Garden is open year round (closed Mondays, Christmas and Thanksgiving).

Literacy programs, scavenger hunts and musicals are just a few of the special programs designed for children and families. Visit the website or call The New York Botanical Garden for details.

Tips to save money at The New York Botanical Garden:

-Pack a light bag lunch. As mentioned in the money saving tips for Bronx Zoo, food gets expensive, especially with several children and adults. Bring food that will be easy to carry and does not require refrigeration. You can save $7-$10 a person. Be sure to bring bottled water and some snacks too. There are designated picnic areas to sit and enjoy lunch.

-Park in a nearby lot and walk to the garden. Parking at the garden is $10.00 a car. There are other parking lots near by which will save you a few dollars and warm up the legs while walking to the garden. If you live in New York City, hop on the subway or bus.

-Frequent Visitors Family Membership. If you live nearby and want to visit the garden often, consider a family membership (starting at $90.00). Three visits by a family of four will pay for itself!