NYC’s most beloved zoo is getting a grr-ific upgrade this summer. The Bronx Zoo is debuting a one-of-a-kind Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood experience, an immersive exhibit running from Friday, May 22-Monday, September 7, 2026.
I got an early look at the immersive exhibit, and the verdict is in: This is a can’t-miss, kid-friendly, summer activity in NYC, whether your little one is a casual fan or a die-hard devotee of the watch-wearing tiger in the snazzy red sweater. Here’s what to know about the Daniel Tiger experience at the Bronx Zoo and how to make the most of your visit.
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What to Expect at Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
The new Daniel Tiger experience is the result of a collaboration between Fred Rogers Productions and the Wildlife Conservation Society, blending the familiar world of Daniel Tiger with the Bronx Zoo’s long-standing mission of wildlife education and conservation.
Rachel Libretti, Director of Events, Programming, and Rides at the Bronx Zoo, told me that the project took about a year and a half from the first conversation with the Fred Rogers Productions team to opening day. Fred Rogers Productions brought the initial idea to the zoo, seeing a natural connection between Daniel Tiger’s world and the Bronx Zoo’s role as a place where families learn, explore, and connect with animals.
Christopher Arnold, Chief Operating Officer for Fred Rogers Productions, said the partnership made sense because both organizations are focused on inspiring curiosity in young children.
“They’re in the business of wonder and sparking imagination and curiosity, and so are we,” Arnold said. He added that the Bronx Zoo helped bring in “the information about the ecosystem, animal facts, and making sure that we could draw a close parallel between habitats and neighborhoods.”
These efforts created a truly immersive experience for kiddos, naturally integrating the beloved Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood staples with the zoo’s wildlife conservation and education efforts.
Meet Daniel Tiger, his family, and friends during your visit to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at the Bronx Zoo.
Stand-Out Features Include:A life-sized, fully accessible Trolley from Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (a particular hit with my toddler, who requested we return several times during our visit)A replica of the iconic Neighborhood Music Wall, where kids can make musicA seek-and-find Nature WalkA “Same & Different” tactile station to explore differences in the animal kingdomThe Tunnel of Make-Believe, with life-sized standees of Daniel Tiger and his family, plus the families of Katerina Kittycat, O the Owl, Jodi Platypus, and Prince Wednesday
Because this version of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood lives inside the Bronx Zoo, there are also plenty of zoo-specific touches. Some of the experience’s elements feature characters like Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat dressed as a field scientist, zookeeper, or veterinarian—details Libretti explained were created specifically for this setting.
Of course, there’s also plenty of cute merch, from adorable Daniel and Katerina plushies to onesies, T-shirts, and the tiger ear headbands that have already become a permanent part of my 3 1/2-year-old’s wardrobe.
Be sure to get in line early for the daily meet-and-greets with Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat.
The Live Show and Meet-and-Greet—Don’t Skip These
At just 12-15 minutes, the live show at the Daniel Tiger Bronx Zoo exhibit is the perfect length for toddler and preschooler attention spans. The high-energy mini-production features a human zookeeper interacting with Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat, singing songs from the show, and tying Daniel Tiger’s familiar lessons into the zoo setting.
Much like the animated Mister Rogers spinoff, the live show is both entertaining and educational—and as a bonus—it’s in a well-shaded tent that’s a perfect respite from the heat. Performance times are at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, and 3pm daily.
The meet-and-greet opportunities with Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat take place in the same space, from 4-4:45pm daily. Pro tip: Line up on the earlier side to avoid a long wait with an antsy child.
The Exhibit Is Bilingual and Accessible
I loved how the Daniel Tiger experience prioritized accessibility and inclusion. All the interactive stations were presented in both English and Spanish, and Spanish is incorporated into the live show’s host lines.
“We believe in catering to our neighborhood, too, and just being really inclusive in every single way possible,” Libretti said.
Arnold added that accessibility was foundational to the Fred Rogers Productions team’s approach as well.
“Daniel is for every kid, regardless of your language expertise, but also your ability levels,” he said. “It was really important for us to incorporate Spanish everywhere we thought was meaningful to the child and the family that’s helping them through the journey.”
The play areas are designed for a range of ages and abilities, and the Trolley includes a section specifically built to accommodate wheelchair users. Arnold noted that the team also considered details like easy grips, kid-sized elements, and activations that allow children of different physical ability levels to participate.
Tickets, Tips, and How to Plan Your Visit
You don’t need to buy anything extra or separate to enjoy the Daniel Tiger exhibit: Admission is free for WCS members and included with regular Bronx Zoo admission. Non-members should still reserve Bronx Zoo tickets in advance.
To beat the biggest crowds, plan your visit earlier in the week, in the morning, and outside of holidays or school breaks. NYC public schools let out for summer on Friday, June 26, so families who can visit before then may have an easier time navigating the zoo with little ones.
If you choose to drive, there are multiple paid parking lots—but personally, I’ve rarely used them because street parking is typically available, and I try to visit during non-peak times, including holidays, school breaks, and weekends with sunny weather forecasts. You can check real-time Bronx Zoo parking lot status online ahead of time if you’re worried about parking.
A car is not required, though. The zoo is accessible by public transit, including the 2 or 5 subway to West Farms Square/East Tremont, East 180th Street, or Pelham Parkway; the BxM11 express bus from Midtown Manhattan; and several local MTA bus routes. The Bx9 also connects the Metro-North Harlem line stop at Fordham to the zoo.
While the Daniel Tiger experience alone is not a full-day activity, the Bronx Zoo absolutely can be. With 265 acres and more than 11,000 animals, it’s well worth carving out extra time to explore. Pack snacks, a stroller or wagon if your child still uses one, and water bottles for hot days. The zoo also has several solid food options, including the Dancing Crane Cafe and seasonal kiosks. My kid and I are partial to the chicken tenders, which are served in a generous portion.
If your family makes it all the way to closing time, Arthur Avenue—the Bronx’s “Real Little Italy”—is nearby and full of family-friendly pasta and pizza options.
Highlights of Daniel Tiger at the Bronx Zoo included the interactive music wall, which is just the right size for tots.
FAQs for Visiting Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood at the Bronx Zoo
How much does it cost to see Daniel Tiger at the Bronx Zoo?
The Daniel Tiger experience is included with regular Bronx Zoo admission and is free for WCS members.
When does the Daniel Tiger exhibit open at the Bronx Zoo?
It opens Friday, May 22, and runs through Monday, September 7, 2026.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Daniel Tiger at the Bronx Zoo?
You do not need a separate ticket for the Daniel Tiger experience, but non-members do need Bronx Zoo admission tickets, which should be reserved in advance.
What age is the Daniel Tiger Bronx Zoo exhibit best for?
The experience is best for preschoolers, roughly ages 2-5, though younger toddlers and early elementary-age siblings who enjoy Daniel Tiger will also find plenty to do.
Is there a live show at the Daniel Tiger Bronx Zoo exhibit?
Yes! The live show at the Daniel Tiger Bronx Zoo exhibit is a highlight of the experience. Featuring Daniel Tiger, Katerina Kittycat, music, and zoo-themed lessons, it runs about 12-15 minutes, making it a manageable length for young children.
Can kids meet Daniel Tiger at the Bronx Zoo?
Yes. Daily meet-and-greet opportunities with Daniel Tiger and Katerina Kittycat are scheduled from 4-4:45pm in the live show area.
Is the Daniel Tiger exhibit at the Bronx Zoo bilingual?
Yes. The experience includes English and Spanish signage, bilingual interactive activities, and Spanish phrases woven into the live show. Kids also receive a free bilingual zoo activity book in English and Spanish.
Is the Daniel Tiger experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The experience includes accessible play elements, and the life-sized Trolley has a section designed for wheelchair users.
All photos by author