Roger Williams Park Zoo sits inside the historic Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island, and traces its roots back to 1872, making it the third-oldest zoo in the United States. What began as a small collection of animals has grown into a 40-acre facility that became the first zoo in New England to earn accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1986.
Today the zoo is home to more than 800 animals representing over 160 species, drawing roughly 835,000 visitors each year. It remains the only zoo in New England to house African elephants, alongside immersive exhibits that recreate habitats from the African savanna to the Himalayan foothills.
Stats at a Glance
- Location: Providence, Rhode Island
- Opened: 1872
- Size: 40 acres
- Species: 160+ species, 800+ animals
- Annual visitors: About 835,000
- Famous for: Only New England zoo with African elephants
- Accreditation: AZA-accredited since 1986
Exhibits and Animal Collection
The zoo’s exhibits are organized by region, including Fabric of Africa, Jambo Junction (home to the zoo’s African elephants and giraffes), the Himalayan Trek, Wild Woodlands for North American species, and Faces of the Rainforest, which opened in 2018 to showcase neotropical wildlife. A newer addition, Penguin Point, opened in 2025 and features Humboldt penguins.
These habitats let visitors move from the African plains to the forests of New England within a single 40-acre visit, reflecting the zoo’s focus on conservation-minded, regionally themed exhibit design.
History and Growth
Opened in 1872 with a modest animal collection, the zoo closed from 1978 to 1980 for a major upgrade project that repositioned it as a modern accredited facility. That renovation helped it become the first New England zoo accredited by the AZA in 1986, cementing its role as a leading regional institution for animal care and conservation education.
Explore more: Explore more Zoos & Aquariums.
Roger Williams Park Zoo FAQs
How old is Roger Williams Park Zoo?
The zoo opened in 1872, making it the third-oldest zoo in the United States.
How many animals live at Roger Williams Park Zoo?
The zoo houses more than 800 animals representing over 160 species.
Where is Roger Williams Park Zoo located?
It is located within Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island.
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Photo: Alex Starr / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.