Sea Lion Feedings at Central Park Zoo

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Watch the sea lions feed and train three times a day in the Zoo's central outdoor plaza.

The sea lion exhibit sits in the open-air Central Garden at the heart of the Central Park Zoo. You can watch from the viewing area above the pool or through the underwater glass panels, where you can see the sea lions diving and maneuvering at full speed. The below-water view is worth positioning for early, especially with kids.

Each session runs about 15 to 20 minutes and combines feeding with behavioral training. Zookeepers use a method called "scanning," where they reinforce natural behaviors the sea lions perform on their own, which means what you're watching isn't a performance so much as a working session. Zookeepers are on hand throughout and will answer questions.

California sea lions can hold their breath for up to 15 minutes, and the underwater viewing panels give you a good sense of how they move through the water.

Feeding times: Daily at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM.

If you want to catch the underwater view, arrive five minutes before the session starts to get a spot at the glass.

Admission

All visitors must purchase date-specific tickets. Visit the zoo's Know Before You Go page for ticket information and what to expect on arrival. For a full overview of everything at the zoo, visit the Central Park Zoo page.