Known as the Central Park Zoo by locals, it is the oldest wildlife center in the city—it opened its doors in 1864. Divided into three zones—Arctic, temperate and rain forest—it's home to more than 1,400 animals and 130 species. The Tisch Children's Zoo is filled with hands-on exhibits and pettable domestic animals. Take lots of quarters for the feed machines to give fishicles (peanut-butter-smeared treats) to the polar bears. The beloved Delacorte Musical Clock draws crowds every half-hour, when a motorized menagerie of little animals twirls around to nursery-rhyme music. Regularly scheduled Wildlife Theater performances are great. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm. US$8 adults, US$4 seniors, US$3 children ages 3-12, free for children younger than 3. 830 Fifth Ave. (in the park at 64th Street), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-439-6500. http://nyzoosandaquarium.com.
