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{{Infobox Museum
{{Infobox Museum
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| type = Zoo
| image =
| address = 3400 W Girard Avenue
| image_caption = Philadelphia Zoo entrance
| type = Zoo, wildlife conservation
| address = 3400 West Girard Avenue
| neighborhood = Fairmount Park
| neighborhood = Fairmount Park
| coordinates = 39.9726,-75.1956
| phone = (215) 243-1100
| phone = (215) 243-1100
| website = https://philadelphiazoo.org
| website = https://www.philadelphiazoo.org
| established = 1874
| established = 1874
| collection_size = 1,300+ animals, 200+ species
| founder = Zoological Society of Philadelphia
| annual_visitors = 1,200,000+
| director = Vikram Dewan
| admission = $28 adults, $24 children
| collections = 1,300+ animals
| hours = Daily 9:30am-5pm (varies seasonally)
| visitors = 1.3+ million annually
| public_transit = SEPTA Bus 38, 15
| hours = Daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM
}}
}}


The '''Philadelphia Zoo''' is America's first zoo, opened in 1874 in [[Fairmount Park]]. Home to over 1,300 animals representing more than 200 species, the 42-acre zoo features innovative exhibits including Zoo360, a network of see-through animal trails that allow animals to move above and around visitors.<ref name="philazoo">{{cite web |url=https://philadelphiazoo.org |title=Philadelphia Zoo |publisher=Philadelphia Zoo |access-date=December 23, 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>
 
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 ==


=== America's First Zoo ===
=== Founding ===
 
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


The Philadelphia Zoological Society was chartered in 1859, but the Civil War delayed opening until July 1, 1874. The Philadelphia Zoo became America's first true zoological garden, predating zoos in Cincinnati (1875), Buffalo (1875), and other cities.
=== Early Years ===


Early exhibits reflected Victorian attitudes toward animals, with small cages and menagerie-style displays. Over 150 years, the zoo has evolved toward naturalistic habitats and conservation focus.
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 ===
=== Historic Buildings ===


Several original 1874 buildings remain:
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 ===
 
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 ==
 
=== Revolutionary Design ===
 
'''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 ===


* '''The Solitude''' — 1785 mansion that predates the zoo
* Animals move freely along trails
* '''Treehouse*** — Victorian-era building
* Visitors can observe from below
* '''Historic gatehouses*** — Original entrance structures
* Enriches animal lives and visitor experience
* Pioneered by Philadelphia Zoo


== Exhibits ==
== Exhibits ==


=== Zoo360 ===
=== African Plains ===
 
African animals in naturalistic habitat:
* Giraffes (giraffe feeding available)
* Zebras
* Hippos
* African birds


Philadelphia Zoo pioneered Zoo360, a network of see-through mesh trails that allow animals to travel above and around visitors:
=== Big Cat Falls ===


* '''Big Cat Crossing''' — Lions, tigers overhead
Home to the world's great cats:
* '''Gorilla Treeway*** — Great apes moving through trees
* Lions
* '''Treetop Trail''' — Small primates exploring
* Tigers
* First animal trail system of its kind
* Pumas
* Leopards
* Snow leopards


=== Major Exhibits ===
=== PECO Primate Reserve ===


* '''Big Cat Falls''' — Lions, tigers, leopards, pumas
Primate habitats including:
* '''PECO Primate Reserve''' — Gorillas, orangutans, gibbons
* Gorillas
* '''African Plains*** — Giraffes, zebras, rhinos
* Orangutans
* '''McNeil Avian Center''' — Birds from around the world
* Gibbons
* '''Rare Animal Conservation Center''' — Endangered species
* Other primates
* '''KidZooU''' — Children's zoo with domestic animals
* '''Reptile and Amphibian House***


=== Animals ===
=== Bear Country ===


Over 1,300 animals including:
North American and other bears:
* Polar bears
* Grizzly bears
* Sloth bears
* Spectacled bears


* African lions and tigers
=== Rare Animal Conservation Center ===
* Western lowland gorillas
 
* Sumatran orangutans
Critically endangered species:
* Giraffes and zebras
* Blue-eyed black lemurs
* Red pandas
* Other rare animals
* Giant tortoises
* Conservation breeding programs
* Polar bears (historically—check current exhibits)
 
=== KidZooU ===
 
Interactive children's area:
* Barnyard animals
* Animal encounters
* Educational programs
* Carousel
 
=== Other Highlights ===
 
* Reptile and Amphibian House
* Bird House
* Penguin Point
* Outback Outpost (Australian animals)


== Conservation ==
== Conservation ==


The zoo participates in Species Survival Plans and conservation programs:
=== Breeding Programs ===
 
The Philadelphia Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans:
* Endangered species breeding
* Genetic management
* Population sustainability
* Release programs


* Breeding endangered species
=== Field Conservation ===
* Research partnerships
* Field conservation support
* Public education programs


== Visiting ==
Support for conservation worldwide:
* Habitat protection
* Research programs
* Community-based conservation
* Partnership with organizations globally


{| class="wikitable"
=== Philadelphia Zoo's Impact ===
|-
! Detail !! Information
|-
| '''Hours''' || Daily 9:30am-5pm (varies seasonally)
|-
| '''Admission''' || $28 adults, $24 children 2-11
|-
| '''Address''' || 3400 W Girard Avenue
|-
| '''Size''' || 42 acres
|-
| '''Time needed''' || 3-4 hours
|}


=== Tips ===
Notable conservation achievements:
* Breeding programs for rare species
* Research publications
* Conservation education
* Support for field projects
 
== Visiting the Zoo ==
 
=== Hours ===


* Mornings are best for animal activity
* '''Daily:''' 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (gates close at 4:00 PM)
* Zoo360 trails are a unique feature—don't miss them
* Hours may vary seasonally
* Parking available on-site (fee)
* Open every day except major holidays
* Stroller-friendly paths
* Food options throughout


== Events ==
=== Admission ===


* '''Zoo Summer Concerts*** — Evening music events
* '''Adults:''' Approximately $28 (check website for current pricing)
* '''Boo at the Zoo''' — Halloween programming
* '''Children (2-11):''' Approximately $24
* '''LumiNature*** — Winter light show
* '''Parking:''' Additional fee
* '''Themed weekends''' — Special activities
* '''Members:''' Free admission


== Getting There ==
=== Tips ===


* '''SEPTA Bus''' — Routes 38, 15
* Allow 3-4 hours for a full visit
* '''SEPTA Regional Rail*** — Zoo Station (Cynwyd Line—limited service)
* Arrive early for best animal viewing
* '''Driving''' — Parking on-site, $20+
* Download the zoo app for maps and updates
* '''PHLASH''' — Downtown Loop (seasonal)
* Big Cat Falls and Zoo360 are highlights
* Summers can be crowded—weekdays are better


== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Getting There ===


{{FAQ
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Routes 15, 32, 38
|q1=Is the Philadelphia Zoo the first zoo in America?
* '''SEPTA Trolley:''' Route 15
|a1=Yes, the Philadelphia Zoo opened on July 1, 1874, making it America's first true zoological garden. The Zoological Society was chartered in 1859, but the Civil War delayed opening. The zoo has operated continuously for 150 years.
* '''By Car:''' Girard Avenue exit from I-76
* '''Parking:''' Large on-site lot (fee)


|q2=What is Zoo360?
=== Location ===
|a2=Zoo360 is an innovative trail system that allows animals to travel through see-through mesh tunnels above and around visitors. Lions and tigers can walk overhead; gorillas move through elevated treeway. It was pioneered at Philadelphia Zoo and is unique in American zoos.


|q3=How long does the Philadelphia Zoo take?
The zoo is located in Fairmount Park, about 10 minutes from Center City.
|a3=Plan 3-4 hours to see the major exhibits. The 42-acre zoo is walkable but extensive. If you have young children or want to see everything, a full day is possible. Animals are most active in the morning.


|q4=Is the Philadelphia Zoo worth the price?
=== Nearby Attractions ===
|a4=At $28 adult admission, it's comparable to other major zoos. The Zoo360 system is unique and innovative. For families who will spend 3-4 hours, most find it worthwhile. Memberships offer value for repeat visitors.
 
}}
* [[Please Touch Museum]] (10-minute drive)
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Mann Center]] (adjacent)
* [[Philadelphia Museum of Art]] (10-minute drive)


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
Line 133: Line 199:
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Please Touch Museum]]
* [[Please Touch Museum]]
* [[Academy of Natural Sciences]]
* [[Family Attractions in Philadelphia]]
* [[Conservation in Philadelphia]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 140: Line 207:
== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://philadelphiazoo.org Official Website]
* [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=The Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo since 1874, features 1,300+ animals, innovative Zoo360 overhead trails, and 42 acres of exhibits. Big cats, gorillas, giraffes, and more.
|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, first zoo in America, Zoo360, Philadelphia animals, Fairmount Park zoo, big cats Philadelphia, family attractions
|keywords=Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, Zoo360, Big Cat Falls, gorillas, lions, family attractions Philadelphia, Fairmount Park, wildlife
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Zoos]]
[[Category:Fairmount Park]]
[[Category:Fairmount Park]]
[[Category:Family Attractions]]
[[Category:Family Attractions]]
[[Category:Wildlife]]
[[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]
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