This webpage provides information and identifies the accommodations we are broadly able to provide to support guests with disabilities during their visit. Please consult the current park map, available on your mobile device or posters at park entry, for daily information and schedules.
For additional questions, or assistance with visit planning, please contact Guest Relations at guestrelations@wcs.org or 718-220-5103. Due to high volume of correspondence, we recommend reaching out at least 7 days prior to a planned visit.
The Prospect Park Zoo partnered with KultureCity to improve the park’s ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory processing needs. The objective is to provide an inclusive and seamless experience for every guest, regardless of age and ability, including those with sensory processing disorders (SPDs). The zoo has installed signage identifying quiet zones and headphone zones to help visitors as they explore the grounds.
Sensory bags containing fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources, are available for checkout (at no cost by leaving an ID) from the staff at the Admissions Booth.
QUIET ZONES
The zoo is very compact, so most areas do have a level of noise/activity. Some areas that typically have less activity and are suggested spaces to sit and regroup after becoming overstimulated are benches, next to the Aviary at the Nature Play area; and behind the cottage in the farmyard area.
HEADPHONE ZONES
We have identified areas that are noisy and where guests tend to linger as “Headphone Zones.” These areas include: inside the Aviary; at the Sea Lion exhibit and the Thick-bill Parrot exhibit.
STAFF TRAINING
Another aspect of the KultureCity partnership involved training Zoo staff members to increase understanding of SPDs, informing them about the efforts the aquarium is making to better serve the community and to discuss strategies each department can implement to support this initiative.
Security & First Aid
In case of emergency, or when in need of first aid, please notify Security at (718) 271-5551.
Personal Care Assistant
All guests with disabilities must have a valid form of admission to the zoo. If a person with a disability requires a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) to experience the zoo, accommodations will be made for their visit. Reservations for the primary guest needs to be made in advance. Once a reservation is made, please contact guestrelations@wcs.org and provide the reservation Order number for assistance on PCA ticketing (subject: PCA admission). Due to high volume of correspondence, we recommend reaching out at least 7 days prior to a planned visit.
For groups of 10 or more, please contact Group Sales for ticketing assistance with PCA accommodations. wcsgroupsales@wcs.org (subject: PCA admission)
For PCA requests by WCS Members, please contact Member Services, membership@wcs.org (subject: member PCA admission), or call 718-220-5112
All PCA tickets must be requested in advance of a visit. We are unable to retroactively apply a discount or refund tickets after they are purchased.
