Looking for something fun to do with the family during the upcoming midwinter recess? Did you know that the Bronx Zoo offers exciting up-close and personal encounters with some of your favorite animals from around the world? Imagine spending time with a cheetah, a penguin- or a giraffe! We recently had the chance to experience a private giraffe connection and we’re excited to share our experience as well as a special promo code for you to be able to book your own animal encounter with friends and family over the upcoming school break.

A few years back, my daughters and I had the amazing opportunity to camp at the Bronx Zoo. The night we went, camping took place on the Mouse House lawn which was right across from the giraffes. So I was very excited to be back for this fun full circle moment.

These encounters are not only fun- they are educational. You won’t just be getting the kids out of the house- you’ll be creating a memory that will last a lifetime. Each encounter is ticketed either individually, per group, or per pair (1 child 1 adult), depending on which experience you choose.

The giraffe encounter is for a group of six people- perfect to take the kids (just make sure to check the age restrictions) and maybe even some friends too. We met up in front of the rhinos at the Zoo Center and headed in to meet our guides.
The Bronx Zoo offers the following encounters:
- Penguin Connection
- Sloth Connection
- Keeper’s Choice
- The ZOO Connection: Celebrity Surprise!
- Giraffe Connection
- Fennec Connection
- My First Connection (adult & child)
- Feathers & Scales

During these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, participants will meet various Bronx Zoo animals – many of which have appeared on Animal Planet’s THE ZOO – along with the keepers who care for them. As many times as I’ve see giraffes at the Bronx Zoo, it was nothing in comparison to being up close and personal with them and having the opportunity to feed them. We also had the chance to ask questions and learn more about these amazing animals during our one-on-one time with the Bronx Zoo keepers. While our group certainly consider ourselves foodies, we were blown away at the fact that giraffes spend around 20 hours a day eating and only 30 minutes sleeping!

After the encounter, all of us walked away saying where else in NYC can you go and experience something like this? To have these unique opportunities in our own backyard is truly incredible. And no two Wild Encounters are ever the same – you never know what surprise guests might show up.

Special promo code for Bronxmama followers
Wild Encounters at the Bronx Zoo are limited and sell out quickly, so be sure to book your tickets before they sell out. Of course, we have a special offer for Bronxmama readers! Use code BMWILD to save 15% off any in-person Bronx Zoo Wild Encounter here. For more information about Wild Encounters at the Bronx Zoo, visit www.bronxzoo.com.
Valid through 3/1/23. Discount code applies to on-site Wild Encounter products only. Max of 6 tickets per order. Not applicable towards prior purchases; no cash back or credit will be issued. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Discount code must be entered at the time of checkout. Online transactions only. All sales final. No refunds or exchanges. Valid through 3/1/23.