Dangerous Animals 1963: Exhibit Design Lessons

A short history of the Bronx Zoo's 1963 Dangerous Animals exhibit and what changed since then.

1/21/2026

11 min read

Exhibits once framed fear and spectacle. Modern design frames empathy and ecology.

Lessons Learned

Tip: Seek exhibits where animals choose where to be—that choice is design.

Design evolves—toward animals, and toward better visitor experiences.

I built this guide to make your Bronx Zoo day easy, insightful, and full of wildlife moments you’ll remember.