| The
Buffalo Zoological Gardens is the third oldest institution of its kind in the
United States. The Zoo's mission is to provide the general public with an educationally,
culturally and recreationally significant community resource. This is accomplished
through the advancement and encouragement of the science of zoology, through the
conservation of the world's wildlife and through the innovative exhibition of
diverse species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Originally
conceived as a deer park in the northeast corner of Frederick Law Olmstead's Delaware
Park, The Buffalo Zoo was established in 1875. Spurred on by local donations of
animals, The Zoo grew and rapidly developed between 1875 and 1930 and attracted
great community interest and involvement. This growth led to the Zoological Society
of Buffalo being founded in 1931. The Society worked with the City of Buffalo
to effect many improvements to The Zoo over the next four decades. Included in
this period was a major renovation (1938-1942) by the Works Progress Administration
(WPA), which featured buildings using classic, period architecture. In
1973, operational responsibilities for the Zoo were turned over from the City
of Buffalo to the Society, which assembled a professional staff to provide care
and oversight for the collection. Since the Society assumed leadership for the
Zoo, important capital projects have been completed. Improvements are continually
made to make the Buffalo Zoo responsive to the animal's needs and a great venue
for family outings, recreation and education. Today,
the philosophy of the Buffalo Zoo is to exhibit animals and plants in ecological
habitats and geographical arrangements that represent the biomes of the world.
Current programs focus on providing visitors with a better understanding of the
natural world, how animals relate to each other, to their environment and to humankind.
No longer are animals housed at the Buffalo Zoo solely for the amusement and entertainment
of visitors, but rather, are presented to increase awareness for the importance
of conservation for the benefit of both the animal kingdom and the human race.
Admission Fees:
Children 23 months and under: FREE
Children (2 - 14): $5.00
Adults: $8.50
Seniors
(63+): $5.00 Parking
Fees:
$3.00 Cars
$6.00 Buses
A token must be purchased at the main
entrance to exit the parking lot. The automated gates will ONLY accept tokens.
Rides:
Train: $1.00
Carousel: $1.00
Tokens can be purchased at convenient
locations near our rides. Tokens MUST be purchased, the attendants will not accept
cash. All rides are closed during the winter. | 
