Jump to content

Philadelphia Zoo: Difference between revisions

From Philadelphia.Wiki
← Older edit
VisualWikitext
Gritty (talk | contribs)
1,361 edits
Automated upload via Philadelphia.Wiki content pipeline
Gritty (talk | contribs)
1,361 edits
Automated upload via Philadelphia.Wiki content pipeline
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Infobox Park
{{Infobox Museum
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| image =
| image =
| image_caption = Philadelphia Zoo entrance in Fairmount Park
| image_caption = Philadelphia Zoo entrance
| type = Zoological garden
| type = Zoo, wildlife conservation
| location = Fairmount Park (West)
| address = 3400 West Girard Avenue
| coordinates = 39.9710,-75.1960
| neighborhood = Fairmount Park
| area = 42 acres
| coordinates = 39.9726,-75.1956
| phone = (215) 243-1100
| website = https://www.philadelphiazoo.org
| established = 1874
| established = 1874
| operated_by = Philadelphia Zoological Society
| founder = Zoological Society of Philadelphia
| features = America's first zoo, Big Cat Falls, African Plains, SEPTA Zoo Key
| director = Vikram Dewan
| hours = Daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM (varies seasonally)
| collections = 1,300+ animals
| transit = SEPTA bus 38; PHLASH trolley
| visitors = 1.3+ million annually
| website = https://www.philadelphiazoo.org
| hours = Daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM
}}
}}


'''Philadelphia Zoo''' is a 42-acre zoological garden in [[Fairmount Park|West Fairmount Park]], notable as '''America's first zoo'''. Chartered in 1859 and opened to the public in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo pioneered zoological exhibition and conservation in the United States. Today it houses over 1,300 animals and continues to innovate with its '''Zoo360''' trail system allowing animals to traverse overhead pathways throughout the grounds.<ref name="zoo">{{cite web |url=https://www.philadelphiazoo.org |title=Philadelphia Zoo |publisher=Philadelphia Zoological Society |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>
'''The Philadelphia Zoo''' is America's first zoo, opened on '''July 1, 1874''', and remains one of the nation's leading zoological institutions. Located on 42 acres in [[Fairmount Park]], the zoo is home to over 1,300 animals representing more than 340 species, including some of the world's rarest creatures. The zoo pioneered the revolutionary '''Zoo360 trail system'''—a network of elevated mesh trails that allow animals like big cats, primates, and red pandas to travel above and around visitors.<ref name="zoo">{{cite web |url=https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/about/ |title=About the Philadelphia Zoo |publisher=Philadelphia Zoo |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


The zoo combines historic significance with modern conservation and animal welfare practices.
Beyond displaying animals, the Philadelphia Zoo is deeply committed to conservation and has led programs saving species from extinction. The zoo has bred endangered animals for release into the wild and supports conservation projects worldwide. With its historic architecture, innovative exhibits, and dedication to animal welfare and conservation, the Philadelphia Zoo offers one of the premier zoological experiences in America.<ref name="visit">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-philadelphia-zoo/ |title=Philadelphia Zoo |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
Line 23: Line 25:
=== Founding ===
=== Founding ===


The '''Philadelphia Zoological Society''' was founded in '''1859''':
The Philadelphia Zoo was established by the '''Zoological Society of Philadelphia''', which received a charter in '''1859'''. The Civil War delayed construction, and the zoo finally opened on '''July 1, 1874''', making it the '''first zoo in America'''.
* First zoological society in America
 
* Civil War delayed opening
Opening day facts:
* '''July 1, 1874:''' Zoo opened to public
* 3,000 visitors
* 3,000 visitors on opening day
* Admission: 25 cents for adults, 10 cents for children
* Admission: 25 cents for adults, 10 cents for children
* Initial collection included animals from the Smithsonian


=== America's First Zoo ===
=== Early Years ===


Philadelphia led the way:
The zoo grew rapidly:
* First scientific zoological garden in America
* Acquired rare and exotic animals
* Modeled on European zoos
* Built distinctive Victorian-era buildings
* Combined education, conservation, recreation
* Became a model for zoos nationwide
* Influenced zoos nationwide
* Attracted millions of visitors


=== Historic Buildings ===
=== Historic Buildings ===


Several original structures survive:
Several original structures survive:
* '''1876 Centennial structures'''
* '''Penrose Building''' (1876): Victorian animal house
* '''Victorian-era buildings'''
* '''Solitude''' (1785): John Penn's country house (on zoo grounds)
* Listed on National Register of Historic Places
* '''Treehouse:''' Historic building now used for education
* Adapted for modern use
 
=== Modern Era ===


=== Evolution ===
The zoo has transformed from a Victorian menagerie to a modern conservation institution:
* New naturalistic habitats
* Zoo360 trail system
* Conservation breeding programs
* Education and outreach


The zoo has continuously evolved:
== Zoo360 ==
* Early menagerie style to naturalistic habitats
* Conservation mission development
* Breeding programs
* Zoo360 innovation (2011+)


== Features ==
=== Revolutionary Design ===


=== Zoo360 ===
'''Zoo360''' is a network of see-through mesh trails that allow animals to travel through and above the zoo:
* '''Big Cat Crossing:''' Lions, tigers, and other cats
* '''Treetop Trail:''' Primates and red pandas
* '''Great Ape Trail:''' Gorillas and orangutans


'''Revolutionary animal trail system:'''
=== Experience ===
* Mesh trails above visitor paths
* Animals travel throughout zoo
* Enrichment and exercise for animals
* Unique viewing opportunities
* Includes Big Cat Crossing, Gorilla Treeway, Treetop Trail


=== Big Cat Falls ===
* Animals move freely along trails
* Visitors can observe from below
* Enriches animal lives and visitor experience
* Pioneered by Philadelphia Zoo


* Lions, tigers, pumas, jaguars
== Exhibits ==
* Naturalistic habitats
* Waterfalls and pools
* Close viewing areas


=== African Plains ===
=== African Plains ===


* Giraffes
African animals in naturalistic habitat:
* Giraffes (giraffe feeding available)
* Zebras
* Zebras
* Hippos
* Hippos
* Rhinos
* African birds
* Open savanna design
 
=== Big Cat Falls ===


=== Primate Reserve ===
Home to the world's great cats:
* Lions
* Tigers
* Pumas
* Leopards
* Snow leopards


=== PECO Primate Reserve ===
Primate habitats including:
* Gorillas
* Gorillas
* Orangutans
* Orangutans
* Gibbons
* Gibbons
* Gorilla Treeway overhead crossing
* Other primates
 
=== Bear Country ===
 
North American and other bears:
* Polar bears
* Grizzly bears
* Sloth bears
* Spectacled bears
 
=== Rare Animal Conservation Center ===
 
Critically endangered species:
* Blue-eyed black lemurs
* Other rare animals
* Conservation breeding programs


=== KidZooU ===
=== KidZooU ===


'''Children's zoo area:'''
Interactive children's area:
* Hands-on experiences
* Barnyard animals
* Domestic animals
* Animal encounters
* Interactive elements
* Educational programs
* Educational programs
* Carousel


=== SEPTA PZ Express ===
=== Other Highlights ===


* Zoo train ride
* Reptile and Amphibian House
* Circuit through grounds
* Bird House
* Popular with families
* Penguin Point
* Outback Outpost (Australian animals)


=== Historic Architecture ===
== Conservation ==


* Victorian-era buildings
=== Breeding Programs ===
* Antelope House
* Bear Country
* Solitude (historic mansion on grounds)


== Animals ==
The Philadelphia Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans:
* Endangered species breeding
* Genetic management
* Population sustainability
* Release programs


=== Notable Species ===
=== Field Conservation ===


Over '''1,300 animals''' representing nearly 400 species:
Support for conservation worldwide:
* '''Big cats:''' Lions, tigers, snow leopards, jaguars
* Habitat protection
* '''Primates:''' Gorillas, orangutans, gibbons
* Research programs
* '''African mammals:''' Giraffes, hippos, zebras, rhinos
* Community-based conservation
* '''Bears:''' Polar bears, spectacled bears
* Partnership with organizations globally
* '''Reptiles:''' Komodo dragon, crocodilians
* '''Birds:''' Extensive bird collection


=== Conservation Programs ===
=== Philadelphia Zoo's Impact ===


The zoo participates in:
Notable conservation achievements:
* Species Survival Plans (SSP)
* Breeding programs for rare species
* Breeding programs for endangered species
* Research publications
* Field conservation support
* Conservation education
* Research partnerships
* Support for field projects


== Visiting ==
== Visiting the Zoo ==


=== Hours ===
=== Hours ===


* Daily: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last entry 4 PM)
* '''Daily:''' 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (gates close at 4:00 PM)
* Hours may vary seasonally
* Hours may vary seasonally
* Check website for current schedule
* Open every day except major holidays


=== Admission ===
=== Admission ===


* General admission fee
* '''Adults:''' Approximately $28 (check website for current pricing)
* Children under 2 free
* '''Children (2-11):''' Approximately $24
* Member discounts
* '''Parking:''' Additional fee
* Various packages available
* '''Members:''' Free admission
* Check website for current pricing
 
=== Getting There ===
 
'''Location:''' 3400 W. Girard Avenue, West Fairmount Park
 
'''By Public Transit:'''
* SEPTA Bus 38 to zoo entrance
* PHLASH (seasonal tourist trolley)
* Walk from 30th Street Station (long walk)
 
'''By Car:'''
* Parking lot adjacent to zoo (fee)
* Enter from Girard Avenue


=== Tips ===
=== Tips ===


* Arrive early—less crowded and animals more active
* Allow 3-4 hours for a full visit
* Zoo360 trails are worth planning around
* Arrive early for best animal viewing
* Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
* Download the zoo app for maps and updates
* The historic buildings are interesting in themselves
* Big Cat Falls and Zoo360 are highlights
* Pack lunch or eat at zoo eateries
* Summers can be crowded—weekdays are better


== Events ==
=== Getting There ===


=== Annual Events ===
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Routes 15, 32, 38
* '''SEPTA Trolley:''' Route 15
* '''By Car:''' Girard Avenue exit from I-76
* '''Parking:''' Large on-site lot (fee)


* '''Summer Ale Festival''' — Craft beer event
=== Location ===
* '''Boo at the Zoo''' — Halloween
* '''LumiNature''' — Winter light show
* '''Big Time New Year's Eve''' — Family celebration
* Various seasonal programs


=== Programs ===
The zoo is located in Fairmount Park, about 10 minutes from Center City.


* Behind-the-scenes tours
=== Nearby Attractions ===
* Keeper chats
* Educational programs
* Summer camps
* Animal encounters


== Nearby ==
* [[Please Touch Museum]] (10-minute drive)
 
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* '''[[Fairmount Park]]''' — Surrounding park
* [[Mann Center]] (adjacent)
* '''[[Please Touch Museum]]''' — Memorial Hall nearby
* [[Philadelphia Museum of Art]] (10-minute drive)
* '''[[Shofuso Japanese House and Garden]]''' — West Fairmount Park
* '''[[Mann Center]]''' — Nearby performance venue
* '''[[Girard College]]''' — Across Girard Avenue


== See Also ==
== See Also ==


* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Memorial Hall]]
* [[Please Touch Museum]]
* [[West Fairmount Park]]
* [[Family Attractions in Philadelphia]]
* [[Girard Avenue]]
* [[Conservation in Philadelphia]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 203: Line 207:
== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://www.philadelphiazoo.org Philadelphia Zoo]
* [https://www.philadelphiazoo.org Philadelphia Zoo Official Website]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-philadelphia-zoo/ Visit Philadelphia Guide]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Philadelphia Zoo - America's First Zoo in Fairmount Park
|title=Philadelphia Zoo - America's First Zoo
|description=Guide to Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo. Big Cat Falls, Zoo360 animal trails, African Plains, and conservation programs in Fairmount Park.
|description=Visit the Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo since 1874. 1,300+ animals, the revolutionary Zoo360 trail system, Big Cat Falls, and world-class conservation programs in Fairmount Park.
|keywords=Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, Fairmount Park attractions, Zoo360, Philadelphia attractions, Big Cat Falls, Philadelphia family activities
|keywords=Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, Zoo360, Big Cat Falls, gorillas, lions, family attractions Philadelphia, Fairmount Park, wildlife
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Parks]]
[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Fairmount Park]]
[[Category:Fairmount Park]]
[[Category:Attractions]]
[[Category:Family Attractions]]
[[Category:Family]]
[[Category:Wildlife]]
[[Category:Historic Sites]]
[[Category:Conservation]]

Latest revision as of 21:10, 30 December 2025

Philadelphia Zoo



TypeZoo, wildlife conservation
Address3400 West Girard Avenue
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodFairmount Park
Phone(215) 243-1100
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1874
FounderZoological Society of Philadelphia
DirectorVikram Dewan
HoursDaily 9:30 AM - 5 PM
Philadelphia Zoo(215) 243-11003400 West Girard AvenuePhiladelphiaPAUS

The Philadelphia Zoo is America's first zoo, opened on July 1, 1874, and remains one of the nation's leading zoological institutions. Located on 42 acres in Fairmount Park, the zoo is home to over 1,300 animals representing more than 340 species, including some of the world's rarest creatures. The zoo pioneered the revolutionary Zoo360 trail system—a network of elevated mesh trails that allow animals like big cats, primates, and red pandas to travel above and around visitors.[1]

Beyond displaying animals, the Philadelphia Zoo is deeply committed to conservation and has led programs saving species from extinction. The zoo has bred endangered animals for release into the wild and supports conservation projects worldwide. With its historic architecture, innovative exhibits, and dedication to animal welfare and conservation, the Philadelphia Zoo offers one of the premier zoological experiences in America.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

Founding

[edit | edit source]

The Philadelphia Zoo was established by the Zoological Society of Philadelphia, which received a charter in 1859. The Civil War delayed construction, and the zoo finally opened on July 1, 1874, making it the first zoo in America.

Opening day facts:

  • 3,000 visitors
  • Admission: 25 cents for adults, 10 cents for children
  • Initial collection included animals from the Smithsonian

Early Years

[edit | edit source]

The zoo grew rapidly:

  • Acquired rare and exotic animals
  • Built distinctive Victorian-era buildings
  • Became a model for zoos nationwide
  • Attracted millions of visitors

Historic Buildings

[edit | edit source]

Several original structures survive:

  • Penrose Building (1876): Victorian animal house
  • Solitude (1785): John Penn's country house (on zoo grounds)
  • Treehouse: Historic building now used for education

Modern Era

[edit | edit source]

The zoo has transformed from a Victorian menagerie to a modern conservation institution:

  • New naturalistic habitats
  • Zoo360 trail system
  • Conservation breeding programs
  • Education and outreach

Zoo360

[edit | edit source]

Revolutionary Design

[edit | edit source]

Zoo360 is a network of see-through mesh trails that allow animals to travel through and above the zoo:

  • Big Cat Crossing: Lions, tigers, and other cats
  • Treetop Trail: Primates and red pandas
  • Great Ape Trail: Gorillas and orangutans

Experience

[edit | edit source]
  • Animals move freely along trails
  • Visitors can observe from below
  • Enriches animal lives and visitor experience
  • Pioneered by Philadelphia Zoo

Exhibits

[edit | edit source]

African Plains

[edit | edit source]

African animals in naturalistic habitat:

  • Giraffes (giraffe feeding available)
  • Zebras
  • Hippos
  • African birds

Big Cat Falls

[edit | edit source]

Home to the world's great cats:

  • Lions
  • Tigers
  • Pumas
  • Leopards
  • Snow leopards

PECO Primate Reserve

[edit | edit source]

Primate habitats including:

  • Gorillas
  • Orangutans
  • Gibbons
  • Other primates

Bear Country

[edit | edit source]

North American and other bears:

  • Polar bears
  • Grizzly bears
  • Sloth bears
  • Spectacled bears

Rare Animal Conservation Center

[edit | edit source]

Critically endangered species:

  • Blue-eyed black lemurs
  • Other rare animals
  • Conservation breeding programs

KidZooU

[edit | edit source]

Interactive children's area:

  • Barnyard animals
  • Animal encounters
  • Educational programs
  • Carousel

Other Highlights

[edit | edit source]
  • Reptile and Amphibian House
  • Bird House
  • Penguin Point
  • Outback Outpost (Australian animals)

Conservation

[edit | edit source]

Breeding Programs

[edit | edit source]

The Philadelphia Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans:

  • Endangered species breeding
  • Genetic management
  • Population sustainability
  • Release programs

Field Conservation

[edit | edit source]

Support for conservation worldwide:

  • Habitat protection
  • Research programs
  • Community-based conservation
  • Partnership with organizations globally

Philadelphia Zoo's Impact

[edit | edit source]

Notable conservation achievements:

  • Breeding programs for rare species
  • Research publications
  • Conservation education
  • Support for field projects

Visiting the Zoo

[edit | edit source]

Hours

[edit | edit source]
  • Daily: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (gates close at 4:00 PM)
  • Hours may vary seasonally
  • Open every day except major holidays

Admission

[edit | edit source]
  • Adults: Approximately $28 (check website for current pricing)
  • Children (2-11): Approximately $24
  • Parking: Additional fee
  • Members: Free admission

Tips

[edit | edit source]
  • Allow 3-4 hours for a full visit
  • Arrive early for best animal viewing
  • Download the zoo app for maps and updates
  • Big Cat Falls and Zoo360 are highlights
  • Summers can be crowded—weekdays are better

Getting There

[edit | edit source]
  • SEPTA Bus: Routes 15, 32, 38
  • SEPTA Trolley: Route 15
  • By Car: Girard Avenue exit from I-76
  • Parking: Large on-site lot (fee)

Location

[edit | edit source]

The zoo is located in Fairmount Park, about 10 minutes from Center City.

Nearby Attractions

[edit | edit source]

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "About the Philadelphia Zoo". Philadelphia Zoo. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Philadelphia Zoo". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
[edit | edit source]
Retrieved from "https://philadelphia.wiki/index.php?title=Philadelphia_Zoo&oldid=951"