Timeline
14:56
Arrive at the zoo before the golden hour. The reptile wing is a standout feature, and the grounds are quieter early in the afternoon. Check the route from your starting point.
16:11
Find a spot near the reptile wing or open paths to watch the golden light hit the enclosures. The sun sets toward the WSW, offering a pleasant backdrop to the animals.
16:56
Walk 13 minutes to the Burrito Bar. The restaurant is upstairs, so you can grab a table with a view after the sun goes down. The bar is on the lower level if you prefer a drink first.
17:11
Enjoy a generous Tex-Mex dinner. Since it is January, the sun has set by 16:53, so you will be dining in the evening darkness.
Local tip
The zoo closes at 4:45 PM. On January 15, golden light starts at 16:11, so time your visit to leave the zoo just before closing or stay for the very last minutes of light if you are quick.
Check before you go
- Zoo hours are 10 AM to 4:45 PM daily.
- Burrito Bar is open until midnight on Sundays (12:00-24:00).
- Check the route (S48/98 or S53) to get to the zoo.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to New York City (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).