Learn About Fort Rickey

Fort Rickey is more than just your typical zoo!

Located in Rome, New York, Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo is a family owned, educational, and engaging petting zoo that offers many areas for fun outdoor discovery and natural play. When people visit zoological parks they usually just walk thru and view the animals at a distance. At Fort Rickey, we do our best to offer more close up, or hands-on interaction. Not all the animals here are deemed “pettable”, but most are. Quite a few of the animals can be fed by hand. The property exists on just over 20 acres of open and spacious land. Visitors enjoy it’s relaxing simplicity and beauty, and they also appreciate the non-commercialism. It’s not overwhelming for small children. Fort Rickey offers just the right amount of engaging activities for the active and curious child while providing safe and comfortable parameters for the more timid child. To get the most from your visit to Fort Rickey it is advised that you check the schedule and attend the educational animal presentations that are offered throughout the day. Most people typically spend 1 to 2 hours visiting the park.

The Stedman Family acquired the petting zoo in May of 2019. The Stedmans came equipped with an education in Zoology and in Veterinary Technical Medicine. In addition to their vast experience in animal husbandry, they also had been active in community work, such as 4H and other youth programs.

The Cross family previously owned and operated Fort Rickey for 41 years and desired to move into their much deserved retirement. When the zoo was put up for sale, the future was uncertain. Together the Cross Family and the Stedman Family worked diligently to make the transition a successful one! Today the future is looking bright! The Zoo is undergoing many revitalizing transformations, but the mission remains the same: To bring children, families, and animal lovers closer to nature, allowing unique creature connections to take place in a clean, fun, and safe environment.