It’s National Zoo Lovers Day, and it couldn’t come at a better time! The sun is shining, the weather is wonderful, and it's a great time to get out of the house and go on an adventure. Why not take the kids to one of these fabulous destinations in the NY Metro Area. The whole family have a blast getting up close and personal with wildlife, learning about biology and environmental science, and nature conservation. We have also included local farms, nature preserves, and animal sanctuaries who allow families to have an up-close and personal experience with the wildlife and livestock, and focus on preservation and conservation. Check it out on today’s blog!
Long Island Area Wildlife Centers and Animal Preserves:
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Long Island Game Farm and Wildlife Park in Manorville is a family owned and operated animal sanctuary boasting 29 acres and more than 200 animals!
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Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead is a gorgeous, state-of-the-art educational and interactive aquatic facility; it’s home to a 20,000 gallon coral reef display, and it isone of the largest all-living coral displays in the Western Hemisphere!
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Center for Science Teaching and Learning in Rockville Centre is located inside the Tanglewood Preserve with an aim to foster a love of science, exploration, and learning! Families can enjoy a hands on experience with Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth Science through workshops, programming, and seasonable exhibits or enjoy a walk through the nature preserve with a CSTL guide.
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Norman J. Levy Park with Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary in Merrick was a former landfill repurposed into a waterfront nature preserve. You can walk the trails or boardwalk and observe local plants and wildlife, as well as beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline!
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Garden of Eve in Riverhead is a real life working farm with an aim on environmental advocacy. Visitors can enjoy a meet and greet with animals and take a farm tour, learning about what it takes to run a farm, maintain the livestock, and grow crops and flowers.
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Animal Farm Petting Zoo and Park in Manorville has been a local family fave on Long Island since it opened in the 1980s. This charming 10 acre park is a great way for kids to have a chance to have a pony ride, feed and pet the rescue animals, meet them up close and see how they live, and learn about rescuing creatures in need.
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Hallockville Museum Farm in Riverhead aims to preserve the history and art of farming on Long Island. Through educational workshops, tours, and special events, families can learn the inner workings of a farm, meet and greet the animals, and learn a little bit of history!
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Benner’s Farm in Setauket is a historic family homestead and working 15-acre farm founded in the 1700s! Folks of all ages will enjoy the educational tours and workshops about farm life and caring for animals, and a chance to meet and feed some of the animals on the property.
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Holtsville Park Ecology and Wildlife Center in Brookhaven has a focus on ecology and wildlife preservation. Visitors will get to observe more than 100 rescued animals who are permanent residents and cannot return to the wild. It also has a walking and exercise challenge course, ecology center, and lots of activities for kids! You can even feed some of the animals and meet them up close!
What are some of your favourite places to meet animals and learn more about wildlife conservation and animal rescue? Let us know in the comments on our social media!
