Spend a day at the Bronx Zoo

What it is like

I will be straight about the money. That is for general admission, and a family of four lands well over $100 before lunch and a stroller rental, which cost $14.70 for a single and $20.25 for a double. Wheelchairs are complimentary. Parking is $22 for a standard car. The upside is that the ticket includes unlimited access to the Star Attractions available on your day, so you are not paying per exhibit.

It is large, and the stroller rental is worth thinking about for anyone under five, or for the grown-up who is carrying the bag. There is a zoo map online; look at it before you arrive and pick the animals your children actually care about rather than trying to see everything. In October, the zoo runs Boo at the Zoo, a family-friendly Halloween celebration included with admission.

A realistic plan is to arrive at opening, do the animals you came for, eat lunch while sitting down, and be gone by mid-afternoon with children who are still speaking to you.

Best time to go

Weekday mornings in spring and fall; avoid hot summer afternoons.

Tips before you go

• Buy tickets online; flex pricing rewards planning ahead.
• Rent a stroller on site if your children are under five; the walking adds up.
• Study the zoo map in advance and pick your must-see animals.
• Check the zoo's seasonal events; Boo at the Zoo runs in October.