The wait is over: the Bronx Zoo’s World of Darkness is back, and it’s better than ever. After years of anticipation, this one-of-a-kind exhibit reopens with a members-only preview on July 10 and welcomes the public starting July 12, promising a summer highlight for families, animal lovers, and curious minds alike.
Check out this post by Bronx premises liability lawyers on everything you need to know, including preview details, featured species, innovative lighting design, accessibility features, and important reservation requirements.
Members-Only Preview: July 10
The excitement begins early for Bronx Zoo members and VIP guests. A ribbon-cutting and media walkthrough is scheduled for Thursday, July 10, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with press check-in at 9–9:30 a.m. at the Bronx River entrance.
Guests at the preview will get a first look at the exhibit’s new habitats and lighting effects. Because the World of Darkness is intentionally kept dark, night-vision cameras are recommended for those hoping to snap unique photos of nocturnal animals exploring their habitats.
Members will also get special access on July 8, giving loyal supporters an early opportunity to experience the exhibit before it opens to the public.
Public Opening: July 12
For everyone else, the grand reopening date is July 12, when the World of Darkness officially reopens to the general public. Zoo visitors must enter at least 30 minutes before closing to access the exhibit.
Admission: The exhibit is included with a standard zoo ticket, but date-specific reservations are required due to expected high demand. The World of Darkness is set to become one of the summer’s most popular Bronx destinations, bringing a unique, interactive experience back to the city.
Species & Nocturnal Habitats
The updated World of Darkness features roughly 25 nocturnal species, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the secretive lives of animals most active while we sleep. Highlights include vampire bats, pygmy slow loris, aye-aye, sand cats, naked mole rats, broad-snouted caiman, and sloths — plus many more surprises.
To recreate the animals’ natural rhythms, the exhibit includes over 20 habitat settings designed to mirror real environments: tropical forests, arid deserts, deep caves, and wetlands. These settings use a reverse light cycle so the animals are awake during visitor hours.
A cutting-edge, programmable LED system simulates gradual dusk and dawn, honoring the exhibit’s original 1969 design while adding modern tech that mimics natural light transitions.
Visitor Experience & Safety
Because the World of Darkness relies on very low light levels to keep nocturnal animals comfortable, visitors will experience near-total darkness — an immersive environment unlike anything else at the zoo. Guests are asked not to bring flashlights or use camera flashes, as bright lights can harm the animals and disrupt their natural behaviors.
Accessibility:
- Manual and electric wheelchairs are welcome.
- Scooters and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are not allowed inside due to tight paths.
- The exhibit is equipped with bilingual signage in English and Spanish, and audio assistance is available by contacting Guest Relations at least seven days in advance.
Safety tip: Move slowly through the exhibit to adjust to the darkness and avoid bumping into others or displays.
Reservation & Admission Details
The exhibit is included with zoo entry, but due to its popularity, visitors must book a date-specific ticket with a reservation. Reservations are available through the Bronx Zoo’s website and should be made well in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
Timing tips:
- Arrive early to make the most of your visit and to avoid crowds at peak afternoon hours.
- Members can enjoy their exclusive preview days on July 8 and 10, with general public access starting July 12.
Getting there: Use the Bronx River Parkway and Boston Road entrance, then follow signs for the Asia parking lot and exhibit entrance. The park’s signage will help guide you directly to the World of Darkness.
Conclusion
The Bronx Zoo’s World of Darkness reopens on July 12, offering an immersive journey into the lives of nocturnal creatures in a carefully crafted, low-light environment. This exhibit promises a safe, accessible experience that combines education and wonder, all while requiring advance reservations to keep crowds manageable.
Bronx Injury Lawyers, P.C. ensures hazards are addressed before harm occurs; the Bronx Zoo has thoughtfully designed World of Darkness to safeguard both animal welfare and the visitor experience.
Don’t miss this unique Bronx adventure — book your tickets, confirm your reservation date, and share your favorite nocturnal discoveries or species highlights in the comments below!