Sondra's City Zoo in Elmira, New York has earned a reputation that extends well beyond the Twin Tiers region. With over 700 reviews and a loyal following, this independently owned pet store draws visitors from across the east coast — and it's the aquarium sections that often steal the show. The saltwater department is a standout, with coral setups that reviewers describe as genuinely impressive for a small-town operation.
Multiple customers call it the only destination for saltwater aquarium needs in the area, praising the staff's deep passion and freely shared expertise on reef keeping. The freshwater side holds its own with a large and rotating selection of tropical fish, guppies, and harder-to-find species. One reviewer who visited from Florida called the selection "insane" for a local fish store.
Shrimp enthusiasts will be pleased too — at least one customer drove in specifically for shrimp varieties they couldn't find elsewhere. What sets Sondra's apart is the health of the livestock. Reviewers consistently note that the fish tanks are clean, the animals are lively, and losses after purchase are rare.
The staff in the fish department gets particular praise for being informative without being pushy, helping customers understand compatibility, water parameters, and daily care routines. They'll research answers on the spot if they're unsure — a small detail that speaks volumes about the store's culture. Beyond aquariums, Sondra's is a full-service pet store carrying supplies for reptiles, small mammals, and dogs, along with puppies, ferrets, rats bred for temperament, and guinea pig nail-trimming services that local vets won't even offer.
The store also partners with Tanner's Paws for animal rescue and adoption. Prices run slightly above big-box competitors, but customers overwhelmingly say the quality of livestock, product selection, and genuine care justify the difference. For anyone in central New York looking for healthy fish, expert saltwater advice, or a pet store that actually invests in the welfare of its animals, the drive to Elmira is worth it.
BETH BROWN
10 reviews
Very friendly people
KING
45 reviews
Good place to shop. For all your fresh water and salt water tant as well as your furry friends and reptile..Nice environment
Bre Louise
2 reviews
Bought fish from here for my kids 40 gallon tank, the staff were nice both times I went in for fish. Today I had called about 4 of the fish that had died. The girl that answered the phone seemed fine, well I got there and the girl that answered the phone seemed irritated, well we go to get the replacements and that’s where it took a turn I was being nice, I said I didn’t think it was anyone’s fault and I was still being nice even after what felt like I was being interrogated by her asking me what my numbers were that I tested, she acted as though I had just gotten fish didn’t do any research or anything. I would like to say I cycled my tank, I made sure the tank was at 80 and the ph alkaline for the guppies and made sure everything was at 0. Anyways I didn’t appreciate the eye roll I got from when I said that everything was at 0 but couldn’t remember the one and had nervously said 18 because I was being nice even though I had gotten nothing but attitude and made to feel like it was my fault the fish had died when the other fish I had weren’t dead and were fine that I got from there. I got home acclimated them to the tank while I tested my water again. Everything was at 0 and so I decided to test the water the fish came in and it was the same as mine everything was right. So I do appreciate the replacement fish however I would like to say that not everyone that walks in there is uneducated on fish and I’m sure the one there was the owner and it would have been nice if I wasn’t interrogated a simple I’m so sorry about that we will make it right would have been fine. I do not know if I will be back here. I now feel uncomfortable with driving an hour to a store that I was recommended to get fish from that now has made me feel uncomfortable with the hostile attitude towards me from the one girl which never mentioned her name pretty odd to me. Again please keep in mind that not everyone that walks in is uneducated I will post the pictures of my water two pictures on the left and the stores the one on the right which are all the same to back me up. I was being nice and I wasn’t putting blame on anyone I wish the same would have been done for me.
Greg Crowell
40 reviews
Very friendly people and a great selection of pets and pet supplies. Our family loves Sondra's City Zoo!
Dakota Brown
2 reviews
Super friendly and knowledgeable staff! I've been here multiple times for both bearded dragon and Rottweiler puppy supplies. They are always kind, friendly and helpful! Products might be priced a little higher than other pet stores but that's because you're supporting a local business that truly cares about selling high-quality products for our furry and scaly family members!
Kurtis Porter
63 reviews
Everything you will ever need and just come if your curious
Christopher Szczech
40 reviews
They have very helpful kick starting my passion for tropical fish and aquarium health.
Matt Hill
76 reviews
Awesome staff great selection of quality products and of course the selection of pets is awesome
Justin O'Brien
82 reviews
Great selection and service!
Oliver Brown
66 reviews
I have traveled all around the east coast by god this is one of the only small businesses who actually care about the environment of their animals. Prices are a bit steep but I will spend a little extra cash any day to support a business who has the best care
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (607) 732-2700 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Sondra’s City Zoo.
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2024 Lake Rd, Elmira, NY 14903
February 7, 2026
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