The zoo was opened in July 1955 in the Palace Friedrichsfelde. Supporting the design of a second zoo was the division of Berlin. Covering an area of 160 hectares of countryside was a zoo in search of his peers. In large enclosures rare hoofed animals can be seen, some of which are unique in Germany and Europe.
Other species are housed in the animal houses: for example, in Alfred-Brehm-house for large cats and tropical birds, elephants in the house for elephants, rhinos and manatees, the alligator-hummingbird-house and the house of African primates. The snake shows one of the largest collections of venomous snakes in a European terrarium.

In the vicinity of the entrance lies the castle Friedrichsfelde, which was built in 1695 as Castle "rose field". It is now a museum. On display are fine and applied art of the 17th and 18 Century. In addition, regular concerts are held.

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