The Philadelphia Zoo brings you face-to-face with incredible creatures from around the world. From majestic big cats to playful primates, this renowned destination offers amazing animal encounters that create lasting memories. Whether you're watching giraffes stretch their necks for afternoon snacks or observing red pandas at play, Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets give you convenient access to this incredible wildlife destination along with other top city attractions.
The Legacy of America's First Zoo
America's first zoo opened its gates in Philadelphia in 1874, setting the standard for animal care and conservation that continues today. This historic institution pioneered many innovative approaches to animal welfare, creating naturalistic habitats that prioritize both animal comfort and visitor education.
The zoo's commitment to conservation shines through its work with endangered species programs, helping protect vulnerable animals like Amur tigers and western lowland gorillas. These conservation efforts extend far beyond the zoo's boundaries, supporting wildlife protection initiatives across the globe.
Philadelphia Zoo's dedication to innovation continues with cutting-edge exhibits and animal care practices that put animal welfare first. This approach creates authentic experiences where animals can express natural behaviors while giving visitors meaningful connections with wildlife.
Explore Diverse Habitats and Animal Highlights
African Plains recreates the sweeping landscapes of Africa, where towering giraffes, massive white rhinos, and hulking hippos roam spacious enclosures. Watching giraffes use their 18-inch tongues to grab leaves from tall trees never gets old, while the impressive size of rhinos up close leaves visitors amazed.
Big Cat Falls showcases some of the world's most powerful predators. Amur tigers, African lions, jaguars, and pumas patrol their territories in this expertly designed habitat. The Amur tigers, weighing up to 660 pounds, demonstrate remarkable swimming abilities as they dive into deep pools to cool off during warm weather. Lions showcase their social nature through pride interactions, while solitary jaguars display their incredible jaw strength. The elevated viewing areas provide excellent sightlines for observing these magnificent cats as they swim, climb, and demonstrate their incredible athletic abilities.
The PECO Primate Reserve houses an impressive collection of our closest animal relatives. Sumatran orangutans swing through their treetop homes, while western lowland gorillas display complex social behaviors. Ring-tailed lemurs bounce and play in groups, showing off their distinctive black-and-white striped tails.
Interactive and immersive wildlife programs come included with general admission, offering scheduled keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and educational presentations throughout the day. These programs give deeper insights into animal behaviors and conservation efforts at no additional cost.
Unique Encounters and Guest Favorites
The revolutionary Zoo360 Trails system sets the Philadelphia Zoo apart from other wildlife destinations. These elevated mesh pathways allow animals like orangutans, tigers, and lemurs to travel above and around visitors, creating unexpected encounters as animals move between habitats. The trails give animals choice and control over their movements while providing guests with thrilling overhead animal sightings.
Giraffe feeding experiences let visitors hand-feed these gentle giants special treats during designated times, creating up-close animal interactions that create unforgettable memories.
Behind-the-scenes animal encounters provide exclusive access to areas typically off-limits to the public. These experiences feature different species throughout the year, from reptile handling sessions to bird training demonstrations. Zoo educators share fascinating details about animal care, training techniques, and conservation work during these special programs.
Family-Friendly Exhibits Beyond the Classics
The Reptile and Amphibian House shelters an incredible diversity of cold-blooded creatures. Giant Galapagos tortoises slowly lumber around their habitat, while colorful poison dart frogs display their warning colors in carefully maintained tropical environments. Snakes from around the world, including massive pythons and venomous species, are on display in secure enclosures and educate visitors about these often misunderstood animals.
The McNeil Avian Center bursts with color and sound as hundreds of bird species from six continents call this space home. Flamingos wade through shallow pools, their pink feathers creating stunning reflections. Tropical birds like macaws and toucans showcase brilliant plumage while demonstrating their intelligence through enrichment activities.
Outback Outpost transports visitors to Australia, where kangaroos hop across open grasslands and emus strut with their distinctive gait. These Australian natives thrive in their spacious habitat, often coming close to viewing areas where families can observe their unique behaviors.
The Water is Life! exhibit celebrates aquatic and semi-aquatic species. North American river otters dive and play in their pool system, entertaining visitors with their playful antics. Red pandas, despite their name, spend much of their time in trees near water sources, using their ringed tails for balance as they navigate branches.
Planning Your Visit to the Philadelphia Zoo
The zoo typically opens daily at 9:30 AM, with closing times varying by season. Peak visiting hours fall between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, so arriving earlier or later often means smaller crowds and more active animals.
First-time visitors should prioritize the Zoo360 trails, Big Cat Falls, and African Plains for the most impressive animal encounters. Families with young children will find the Children's Zoo area particularly engaging, with hands-on experiences and smaller animals that captivate little ones.
Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets provide convenient access to the zoo along with other top Philadelphia attractions, offering significant savings compared to individual admission prices. These tickets simplify planning while providing excellent value, letting you focus on creating amazing memories with incredible animals. From watching tigers prowl overhead trails to feeding towering giraffes, the Philadelphia Zoo delivers wildlife experiences that inspire and educate visitors of all ages.