BRONX zoo

where nature is the attraction

A high capacity, immersive experience rooted in nature.

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overview

The Bronx Zoo was looking for an attraction that blends hands-on learning with active play— creating a shared adventure for families to explore together.

The challenge

  • Seeking a unique attraction that diversified guest offering

  • High-capacity, low staffing requirements

  • Offer accessible components

from our partneR

"Nature Trek has been a fantastic addition to the Bronx Zoo. It’s not just a play area, it’s an immersive experience that encourages curiosity, movement, and family connection. Guests love the sense of adventure, and it’s been a meaningful way to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.”

chris papaleo, Director of Admissions and Parking, wcs


strategy

A SimEx-Iwerks solution

After launching the Jungle Ropes Safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, we saw an opportunity to bring a similar—but even more accessible—experience to the Bronx Zoo. We introduced the concept of a high-capacity, no-harness trek through the trees designed for families to explore together in fun, active play.

Working closely with the Bronx Zoo team and our nature attraction partner, we built a “village in the trees”—a fully netted network of bridges, walkways, towers, and alternative accessible routes.

The experience encourages movement and discovery. Families can navigate wavy bridges, crawl through elevated tunnels, and challenge themselves—all while enjoying a safe, fully netted structure designed for a wide range of ages and abilities.

At the heart of the trek is a human-sized bird’s nest offering panoramic views. This elevated journey gives guests a new way to engage with nature and explore the zoo from a fresh point of view.


the result

wows
to wins

01


Revenue growth

Strong Nature Trek ticket sales and inclusion in popular Total Experience ticket package.

02


High-capacity

High throughput attraction keeps up on busy peak zoo days!

03


Guest Approved

Proven attraction—consistently high guest satisfaction scores.

04


Long-term partnership

Our partnership with Wildlife Conservation Society started in xxxx, Nature Trek opened at The Bronx Zoo in 2017

05


Connection to Nature

Educational play in natural environment that can be explored together

hear from our team

"SimEx-Iwerks was proud to build on our long-standing partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society to help bring Nature Trek to life. By blending our expertise in immersive experiences with the Bronx Zoo’s deep commitment to conservation, the result was a unique adventure that invites families to explore, play and connect with nature in a whole new way."

Sean McAllister, Senior Vice President, Attraction Development

Ask about our attractions rooted in nature.

Bring nature to life through play.