New York City has a zoo in each of its boroughs; the one in the Bronx is the biggest and best. Creatures as large as elephants and tiny as mouse deer appeal to both grown-up and youthful visitors.Best and Worst Time to Go to the Bronx ZooAdmission to the zoo is free on Wednesday, so the zoo is crowded with school and camp field trips. Go in the later afternoon on Wednesday or on another day to avoid large groups of children.Must See/Do at the Bronx ZooTigers and gorillas often come close to the glass in their (separate) enclosures, leading to thrilling encounters. The World of Birds is a walk-through aviary, where birds flash brightly colored wings as they fly. Ride the monorail at Wild Asia to see elephants, rhinos, and other species roaming in wooded habitats.Admission to the Bronx ZooEntry to the zoo costs about $20, with reduced prices for children and seniors. On Wednesday, general admission is free, though donations are accepted. Some exhibits and activities have additional fees, including Jungle World, the Wild Asia monorail, and the Butterfly Garden.Parking at the Bronx ZooThe Bronx Zoo has two parking lots; there is a fee for parking. If the lots fill up, as often happens during summer, visitors may be redirected to the Fordham University parking garage.Public Transportation to the Bronx ZooThe Bronx Zoo is easily reached by public transportation. The express bus from Manhattan stops at the zoo's Bronx River entrance. Alternatively, you can take the subway and then walk to the Asia gate or the Bronx River gate.Food at Bronx ZooThe zoo has a café plus additional snack stands throughout the grounds. The restaurant serves hot and cold food, with seating indoors and outside near the flamingoes. The zoo allows visitors to bring their own food.Insider Tip for the Bronx ZooDon't hesitate to visit the zoo on a rainy day. It will be less crowded and many of the exhibits are indoors, allowing refuge if the rain is heavy.Author's bio: Elissa is a freelance writer based in New York City. She grew up here and visits the Bronx Zoo whenever she needs to feel like a kid again. Elissa blogs about her travels at http://www.elissaexplores.com.