The Beardsley Zoo is a 52-acre zoo located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It is the only zoo in the state of Connecticut and is home to over 300 animals from all around the world.
The zoo was founded in 1922 and is one of the oldest zoos in the country. Over the years, it has grown and expanded, adding new exhibits and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Beardsley Zoo is the Rainforest Building, which features a variety of animals from tropical rainforests, including jaguars, monkeys, and poison dart frogs. Visitors can walk through the exhibit and see the animals up close in their natural habitats.
Other popular exhibits at the zoo include the South American Rainforest exhibit, which features animals such as giant anteaters and capybaras, the New England Farmyard exhibit, which showcases farm animals such as cows and chickens, and the Wolf Observation exhibit, which allows visitors to watch gray wolves in their habitat.
The Beardsley Zoo is also home to a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including animal encounters, zoo camps for children, and educational programs for schools and community groups.
The Beardsley Zoo carousel is a classic carousel located within the Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The carousel is a historic attraction that has been a beloved part of the zoo for many years.
The carousel was built in 1921 by the Herschell-Spillman Company, a prominent manufacturer of carousels in the early 20th century. The carousel features 36 hand-carved wooden animals, including horses, zebras, and tigers, as well as two chariots.
The carousel’s animals were crafted by skilled artisans, each one unique and intricately detailed. They were hand-painted with bright colors and intricate patterns, making the carousel a stunning visual attraction.
The Beardsley Zoo carousel has been restored and maintained over the years, and it remains a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. The carousel is housed in a classic carousel pavilion that adds to the nostalgic charm of the ride.
Riding the carousel is included in the admission price to the Beardsley Zoo, and tickets are available for purchase at the carousel pavilion. It is a favorite attraction for children, and many families make it a point to ride the carousel during their visit to the zoo.
In addition to its animal exhibits and programs, the Beardsley Zoo also focuses on conservation efforts and is actively involved in the protection of endangered species. The zoo works with other organizations to breed and reintroduce endangered species into the wild, and it also participates in research and conservation programs to help protect animals in their natural habitats.
Overall, the Beardsley Zoo is a wonderful destination for families and animal lovers, offering a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The Beardsley Zoo carousel is a beloved and historic attraction that adds to the charm and nostalgia of the Beardsley Zoo. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the zoo, and a wonderful way to experience the magic of a classic carousel ride.