Experience · Utica
Utica Zoo Family Adventure
Embark on a family adventure at the Utica Zoo, discovering over 200 animals and participating in engaging kids' programs. Afterward, refuel with tasty burgers and end the day with a relaxing outdoor stroll.
A 3.5-hour Utica afternoon plan for families — Utica Zoo, Rick's Famous Juicy Burgers, Roscoe Conkling Park.
- Duration
- 3h 30m
- Cost
- $50–$100
- Stops
- 3 stops
- Walking
- Light walking · Total 4-mile driving route
- Best time
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Ideal for
- Families · Kids · Adults · Solo
The plan
The plan
- 1Utica Zoo(2 hrs)→
- 2Rick's Famous Juicy Burgers(1 hr)→
- 3Roscoe Conkling Park(30 min)
Why this plan works
The 3 stops cover about 4 miles total, which keeps you in one pocket of Utica instead of crossing town between them. Utica Zoo is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Roscoe Conkling Park — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to families, families with kids, adults, and solo who want a planned Utica outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Embark on a family adventure at the Utica Zoo, discovering over 200 animals and participating in engaging kids' programs. Afterward, refuel with tasty burgers and end the day with a relaxing outdoor stroll.
The itinerary
3 stops, one great day
- 12 hrsUtica Zoo
Family
Small year-round zoo featuring over 200 animals plus guided tours & kids' programs.
What to do — Wander through the various animal habitats, look for your favorite animals, and see if there are any guided tours or feeding times scheduled for kids.
Scout Side QuestPick the animal whose hairstyle or personality best matches someone in your group today.
1.9 mi · 7 min drive
Then Head a very short distance to a nearby burger spot for lunch.
21 hrRick's Famous Juicy BurgersFood & Drink
What to do — Enjoy a delicious and satisfying burger lunch, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploring.
2.1 mi · 8 min drive
Then A very short drive will take you to Roscoe Conkling Park for a relaxed end to your outing.
3Optional 30 minRoscoe Conkling ParkOutdoors
Historic recreation area featuring the Utica Zoo, Valley View Golf Course & a woodsy trail system.
What to do — Find an easy walking trail for a brief walk, letting the kids burn off any remaining energy before heading home. Enjoy the quiet and scenery.
Scout Side QuestSpot a tree branch or cloud that looks like an animal. See who can find the silliest shape.
Scout Stories
People who did this
Be the first to leave a Moment.
Did this outing? Hit "We Did This" up top and share a photo.
The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good Utica itinerary for families?
- Yes. It's built for families, families with kids, adults, and solo and runs about 3 hr 30 min across 3 stops, starting at Utica Zoo.
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 3 hr 30 min door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this Utica itinerary cost?
- Roughly $50–$100 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 4 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
Keep exploring
More ways to spend time in Utica
Different moods, same city.
- OutdoorsUticaBudget-Friendly Utica Park & Bites
Start your afternoon with a rejuvenating walk through Roscoe Conkling Park, exploring its trails and enjoying the outdoors without spending a dime. Afterward, head to a popular spot for delicious, inexpensive burgers for a satisfying lunch. This plan offers a great way to enjoy Utica on a budget.
- Duration
- 2h 45m
- Cost
- $15–$30
- Ideal for
- Solo · Friends