It's not often that in the middle of New York - or more specifically, The Bronx - can one expect to run into a peacock waddling by on the sidewalk. But, at the Bronx Zoo, where the birds roam free, it's a sight to see.

Throughout the day, you can see things like penguin feedings, tiger enrichment, sea lion enrichment, and primate training.

The highlight for me was the new Madagascar exhibit. There were too many types of Lemurs to count! I loved every minute of this beautiful, recreated natural habitat. Madagascar has so many endangered species that are ONLY found in this location. It's great news that the Wildlife Conservation Society is raising awareness about these beautiful and scarce animals.

While you're there, don't forget to hop on the Skyfari - which is now back up and running and 100% safe! The Wild Asia Monorail takes you through to get an overhead view of African Tigers roaming free, bathing in the sun and exploring their terrain.

It's a memorable experience for kids, adults and everyone in between. It's easily accessible from the 4 train or the Bronx River Parkway. Parking is available.

A zoo? Yes, a zoo. The Bronx Zoo isn't just any zoo - it sprawls out over more than 265 acres, and there are more than 4,000 animals to gape at during your visit. Because of its size and approach to creating natural environments for the animals, the Bronx Zoo feels a lot more like a wildlife preserve than a city zoo. The vast size also thins out the already small crowd of zoogoers - be careful on Wednesdays, though, when admission to the zoo is free. The food available at the zoo isn't very good - typical fast-food hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, and hamburgers - so I suggest bringing a picnic lunch, as there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy one.

If you’ve seen my zoo articles, you’ve read of my love of the Bronx Zoo. The Bronx Zoo is home for me, and has strong sentimental value. This seems to be one of the most famous zoos in the world, and for good reason.

The zoo first opened in 1899, and the designs of the many buildings shows just how long this zoo has been a mainstay in New York. Classic buildings still survive around the Astor Court section of the zoo, with the old cat house, monkey house and elephant house standing in this area. Not far off are newer buildings with interesting designs. For instance the World of Birds, with its catwalk ramp connecting the two levels, or the circular design of the World of Darkness.

It is of course the animals that are the stars of the zoo. Thousands of species are represented here. The elephants, lions, polar bears, and sea lions seem to be the biggest draws. The zoo keeps expanding with new exhibits, and the newest section is Tiger Mountain. This area is home to a handful of tigers, where they sometimes play and often sleep. This new display also discusses the conservation of the tigers' natural habitat as well as poachers. The zoo is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, and tries to enlighten its visitors about threats to animals and the environment.

Personal year-round favorites are the before-mentioned World of Birds, with one of the zoo's mock rain forests and the aviation cage, where aquatic birds get a good chance to spread their wings. The Buffalo Range and the Mouse House are also high on my list.

Many areas are open on a seasonal basis. The Bengali Express monorail, the Skyride cable cars, and the tram rides all open in the spring. The Children's Zoo is also a summer attraction, and a must for children. Kids get a chance to live like the animals for a few moments, from exploring large prairie dog holes to climbing a large spider web to getting to hear the world the way a fox does. There is also your typical petting zoo for the kids to see once they've worn themselves out.

Not all the seasonal events are summer-based. In December, the zoo stays open late for the "Holiday Lights" display. With wire frame animals in some of the fields.

Prices vary for the Bronx Zoo. Some tickets allow people only general access and others allow people to visit all areas. Prices I believe are also based on seasonal conditions. To get to the zoo, take the 2 or 5 Subways. A number of bus lines also stop nearby. Driving may be the best solution if possible, with easy access to the Bronx River Parkway.

I like to visit zoos when I travel. I was lucky to be born in city with a number of zoos. Of those, it is the Bronx Zoo that stands above all others, and perhaps above all zoos in the world.

Would you believe that this is the largest metropolitan zoo in the US? Right here in the Bronx, a train or subway ride away from Manhattan. This zoo is indeed very big, and will easily offer a whole day of educational entertainment.

I especially liked the giraffes, which are indoors and in a huge building with painted wildlife backgrounds. The Congo Gorilla Forest is also a must-see. It is outdoors, in a recreated environment. I could easily observe these fun-loving features for hours, watching their gestures and how they interact with each other.

Other highlights include Jungle World, an indoor rain forest beautifully recreated with rare species and plants and trees coexist. Another must-see is the Journey to the Himalayas, the red panda, snow leopard and other rare species can be seen.

There is a lot of walking involved, and the zoo gets crowded especially on weekends and holidays. It’s an excellent place for kids and adults alike. I also recommend the monorail that takes you on a ride around the zoo grounds. It’s a good way to get an overview of the place and to sit after the hours of walking. Plan ahead and pack a little picnic beforehand. There are many cafes and food counters available, but I found them overcrowded and the food mediocre and expensive, as to be expected.

Check for winter schedules, as some sections of the zoo are closed. In the non-winter months, admission is around $9 for adults, and Wednesdays are free. Rides are extra. Website: The Bronx Zoo Website.

Tel: 718-367-1010

To get there, take the subway #5 to East Tremont Ave.

Great place to visit any season. While in the park you almost forget you are in the City. Very well kept and organized. If you are lucky to be in NY during the X-mas season, the Bronx Zoo has the whole park decorated in lights. I went with a friend around 6 pm and it was quite romantic. The light sculpture are beautiful and the s'mores delicious. I also had the pleasure of attending with my 3rd grade class. We went early in the morning and had the whole zoo to ourselves until 11 am. If you are visiting from out of town try to avoid weekdays in MAy and June because it is a popular school outing. Visit after 3 or on the weekends so you can enjoy all the attractions.