The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the most iconic destinations in Pennsylvania, and it holds a special place in the history of zoos in the United States. As the first zoo in America, it offers both a glimpse into the past and a look at the future of animal care and conservation. With over 1,300 animals and numerous interactive exhibits, it promises a fun and educational experience for families, animal lovers, and conservation enthusiasts alike. But is it worth visiting? Let’s dive into what the zoo offers, the unique attractions, visitor experiences, ticket prices, and some helpful tips for making the most of your visit.
Overview of the Philadelphia Zoo
Founded in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo is not just any zoo—it holds the distinction of being the first zoo in the United States. Spanning 42 acres of land, this historical site combines modern animal exhibits with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. With a mission to promote wildlife conservation and education, the zoo is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many of which are rare and endangered species from around the world.
The zoo’s commitment to education and conservation is evident in its well-curated exhibits and its dedication to providing the best care for the animals. The Philadelphia Zoo is also a participant in several global conservation efforts aimed at protecting wildlife, making it more than just an entertaining destination—it’s a place that supports important environmental and conservation goals.
Unique Attractions & Experiences
The Philadelphia Zoo is known for its innovative and immersive attractions that make it stand out from other zoos. Beyond the typical animal enclosures, the zoo offers several unique experiences that engage visitors and educate them about wildlife conservation in fun, interactive ways.
Zoo360: A Trail System Allowing Animals to Roam Above Visitors
One of the most unique features of the Philadelphia Zoo is Zoo360. This trail system is a network of suspended walkways that allows animals, such as big cats, monkeys, and primates, to roam above visitors. This innovative design lets animals explore the zoo from a height, mimicking their natural habitats and giving them more space to roam.
Visitors can walk underneath these suspended trails and watch animals like orangutans, gorillas, and big cats as they explore their habitats in a way that’s never been done before. Zoo360 is designed to enhance animal welfare by giving them more freedom and stimulating their natural behaviors, which in turn gives visitors a unique, up-close experience of these incredible creatures.
KeyBank Big Cat Falls: Amur Tigers, African Lions, and Snow Leopards
For fans of big cats, KeyBank Big Cat Falls is a must-see. This exhibit is home to some of the most majestic and powerful animals on earth, including Amur tigers, African lions, and snow leopards. The large, naturalistic habitats allow these cats to roam, jump, and play in a setting that closely mimics their natural environments.
The zoo’s design allows visitors to get an up-close view of these beautiful predators, observing their behaviors, hunting techniques, and interactions with their environment. It’s one of the most popular exhibits in the zoo, offering incredible photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these species in the wild.
PECO Primate Reserve: Gorillas, Orangutans, and Lemurs
The PECO Primate Reserve is another highlight of the Philadelphia Zoo. This exhibit is home to a variety of primate species, including gorillas, orangutans, and lemurs. These fascinating animals are known for their intelligence and social behavior, and the zoo’s reserve allows visitors to observe their interactions in a space that closely resembles their natural habitats.
The exhibit includes indoor and outdoor areas, giving the primates plenty of space to explore. The design of the reserve also ensures that the animals are kept mentally stimulated, providing them with enrichment activities and opportunities to engage with their environment. It’s a great place to learn about the complex social structures of primates and the importance of conserving their habitats.
KidZooU: An Interactive Wildlife Academy
If you’re visiting with younger children, KidZooU is the perfect place to engage with wildlife in a fun and educational way. This interactive wildlife academy features hands-on experiences designed to teach kids about animals, conservation, and environmental science. The area includes exhibits that highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and feature animals that are often overlooked in traditional zoo settings, such as farm animals and native species.
There are also live animal encounters, where kids can get up close to animals like reptiles, birds, and small mammals. KidZooU is designed to be a safe and educational space for children to explore their curiosity about the natural world while learning the importance of caring for animals and the environment.
Visitor Reviews & Ratings
The Philadelphia Zoo has earned a strong reputation among visitors, with an average rating of 4.3 stars on Tripadvisor. Many guests rave about the diverse and well-maintained exhibits, particularly the innovative design of Zoo360 and the beautiful big cat habitats. The zoo’s efforts to create naturalistic environments for the animals are also highly praised.
However, some visitors have noted that the ticket prices are relatively high, and additional costs, such as parking and food, can add up quickly. While the zoo’s educational and conservation efforts are widely appreciated, some reviews mention that the zoo could do more to improve the accessibility and affordability of the overall experience. Still, most visitors agree that the zoo provides a memorable experience and is worth the visit, especially for families and animal lovers.
Ticket Prices & Value
When planning your visit to the Philadelphia Zoo, it’s important to know what to expect in terms of pricing. General admission for adults is around $24, while tickets for children and seniors are priced lower. While the price may seem steep compared to other attractions, the zoo’s expansive exhibits and educational programs make it a worthwhile experience.
For those who plan to visit frequently, memberships are available and offer discounted entry for members, as well as access to special events and other perks. The zoo also offers group discounts, making it a great option for school trips, family reunions, or group outings.
It’s also worth noting that the Philadelphia Zoo participates in reciprocal zoo programs. If you’re a member of another zoo that participates in this program, you may be able to enjoy discounted or free admission to the Philadelphia Zoo, which can help save on the overall cost of your visit.
Best Times to Visit & Tips
The best times to visit the Philadelphia Zoo are during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the animals are typically more active. The cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable visit, and the fall months bring beautiful foliage to the zoo’s grounds, adding to the scenic experience.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive early in the day. Visiting early also allows you to catch the animal feeding sessions, which can be a highlight of the experience. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, so consider planning your visit during the week if you want a quieter experience.
It’s also important to dress comfortably and wear sunscreen, especially during the warmer months, as much of the zoo is outdoors. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and be prepared to do a fair amount of walking as the zoo is spread out over 42 acres.
Conclusion
So, is the Philadelphia Zoo worth it? In short, yes. With its rich history, diverse animal exhibits, and innovative attractions like Zoo360, the Philadelphia Zoo offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. While ticket prices may be on the higher side, the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education makes it a worthwhile destination. Whether you’re visiting for the unique animal exhibits, the chance to learn about wildlife conservation, or a fun day out with the family, the Philadelphia Zoo has something to offer. If you’re in the area and love animals, it’s definitely worth a visit.
