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{{Infobox Museum
{{Infobox Park
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| name = Philadelphia Zoo
| type = Zoo
| image =
| address = 3400 W Girard Avenue
| image_caption = Philadelphia Zoo entrance in Fairmount Park
| neighborhood = Fairmount Park
| type = Zoological garden
| phone = (215) 243-1100
| location = Fairmount Park (West)
| website = https://philadelphiazoo.org
| coordinates = 39.9710,-75.1960
| area = 42 acres
| established = 1874
| established = 1874
| collection_size = 1,300+ animals, 200+ species
| operated_by = Philadelphia Zoological Society
| annual_visitors = 1,200,000+
| features = America's first zoo, Big Cat Falls, African Plains, SEPTA Zoo Key
| admission = $28 adults, $24 children
| hours = Daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM (varies seasonally)
| hours = Daily 9:30am-5pm (varies seasonally)
| transit = SEPTA bus 38; PHLASH trolley
| public_transit = SEPTA Bus 38, 15
| website = https://www.philadelphiazoo.org
}}
}}


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>
'''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 zoo combines historic significance with modern conservation and animal welfare practices.


== History ==
== History ==
=== Founding ===
The '''Philadelphia Zoological Society''' was founded in '''1859''':
* First zoological society in America
* Civil War delayed opening
* '''July 1, 1874:''' Zoo opened to public
* 3,000 visitors on opening day
* Admission: 25 cents for adults, 10 cents for children


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


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.
Philadelphia led the way:
* First scientific zoological garden in America
* Modeled on European zoos
* Combined education, conservation, recreation
* Influenced zoos nationwide


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.
=== Historic Buildings ===


=== Historic Buildings ===
Several original structures survive:
* '''1876 Centennial structures'''
* '''Victorian-era buildings'''
* Listed on National Register of Historic Places
* Adapted for modern use


Several original 1874 buildings remain:
=== Evolution ===


* '''The Solitude''' — 1785 mansion that predates the zoo
The zoo has continuously evolved:
* '''Treehouse*** — Victorian-era building
* Early menagerie style to naturalistic habitats
* '''Historic gatehouses*** — Original entrance structures
* Conservation mission development
* Breeding programs
* Zoo360 innovation (2011+)


== Exhibits ==
== Features ==


=== Zoo360 ===
=== Zoo360 ===


Philadelphia Zoo pioneered Zoo360, a network of see-through mesh trails that allow animals to travel above and around visitors:
'''Revolutionary animal trail system:'''
* 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 Crossing''' — Lions, tigers overhead
=== Big Cat Falls ===
* '''Gorilla Treeway*** — Great apes moving through trees
* '''Treetop Trail''' — Small primates exploring
* First animal trail system of its kind


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


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


=== Animals ===
* Giraffes
* Zebras
* Hippos
* Rhinos
* Open savanna design


Over 1,300 animals including:
=== Primate Reserve ===


* African lions and tigers
* Gorillas
* Western lowland gorillas
* Orangutans
* Sumatran orangutans
* Gibbons
* Giraffes and zebras
* Gorilla Treeway overhead crossing
* Red pandas
* Giant tortoises
* Polar bears (historically—check current exhibits)


== Conservation ==
=== KidZooU ===


The zoo participates in Species Survival Plans and conservation programs:
'''Children's zoo area:'''
* Hands-on experiences
* Domestic animals
* Interactive elements
* Educational programs


* Breeding endangered species
=== SEPTA PZ Express ===
 
* Zoo train ride
* Circuit through grounds
* Popular with families
 
=== Historic Architecture ===
 
* Victorian-era buildings
* Antelope House
* Bear Country
* Solitude (historic mansion on grounds)
 
== Animals ==
 
=== Notable Species ===
 
Over '''1,300 animals''' representing nearly 400 species:
* '''Big cats:''' Lions, tigers, snow leopards, jaguars
* '''Primates:''' Gorillas, orangutans, gibbons
* '''African mammals:''' Giraffes, hippos, zebras, rhinos
* '''Bears:''' Polar bears, spectacled bears
* '''Reptiles:''' Komodo dragon, crocodilians
* '''Birds:''' Extensive bird collection
 
=== Conservation Programs ===
 
The zoo participates in:
* Species Survival Plans (SSP)
* Breeding programs for endangered species
* Field conservation support
* Research partnerships
* Research partnerships
* Field conservation support
* Public education programs


== Visiting ==
== Visiting ==


{| class="wikitable"
=== Hours ===
|-
 
! Detail !! Information
* Daily: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last entry 4 PM)
|-
* Hours may vary seasonally
| '''Hours''' || Daily 9:30am-5pm (varies seasonally)
* Check website for current schedule
|-
 
| '''Admission''' || $28 adults, $24 children 2-11
=== Admission ===
|-
 
| '''Address''' || 3400 W Girard Avenue
* General admission fee
|-
* Children under 2 free
| '''Size''' || 42 acres
* Member discounts
|-
* Various packages available
| '''Time needed''' || 3-4 hours
* 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 ===


* Mornings are best for animal activity
* Arrive early—less crowded and animals more active
* Zoo360 trails are a unique feature—don't miss them
* Zoo360 trails are worth planning around
* Parking available on-site (fee)
* Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
* Stroller-friendly paths
* The historic buildings are interesting in themselves
* Food options throughout
* Pack lunch or eat at zoo eateries


== Events ==
== Events ==


* '''Zoo Summer Concerts*** — Evening music events
=== Annual Events ===
* '''Boo at the Zoo''' — Halloween programming
* '''LumiNature*** — Winter light show
* '''Themed weekends''' — Special activities
 
== Getting There ==


* '''SEPTA Bus''' — Routes 38, 15
* '''Summer Ale Festival''' — Craft beer event
* '''SEPTA Regional Rail*** — Zoo Station (Cynwyd Line—limited service)
* '''Boo at the Zoo''' — Halloween
* '''Driving''' — Parking on-site, $20+
* '''LumiNature''' — Winter light show
* '''PHLASH''' — Downtown Loop (seasonal)
* '''Big Time New Year's Eve''' — Family celebration
* Various seasonal programs


== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Programs ===


{{FAQ
* Behind-the-scenes tours
|q1=Is the Philadelphia Zoo the first zoo in America?
* Keeper chats
|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.
* Educational programs
* Summer camps
* Animal encounters


|q2=What is Zoo360?
== Nearby ==
|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?
* '''[[Fairmount Park]]''' — Surrounding park
|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.
* '''[[Please Touch Museum]]''' — Memorial Hall nearby
 
* '''[[Shofuso Japanese House and Garden]]''' — West Fairmount Park
|q4=Is the Philadelphia Zoo worth the price?
* '''[[Mann Center]]''' — Nearby performance venue
|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.
* '''[[Girard College]]''' — Across Girard Avenue
}}


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


* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Fairmount Park]]
* [[Please Touch Museum]]
* [[Memorial Hall]]
* [[Academy of Natural Sciences]]
* [[West Fairmount Park]]
* [[Girard Avenue]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 140: Line 203:
== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://philadelphiazoo.org Official Website]
* [https://www.philadelphiazoo.org Philadelphia Zoo]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Philadelphia Zoo - America's First Zoo in Fairmount Park
|title=Philadelphia Zoo - America's First Zoo in Fairmount Park
|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=Guide to Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo. Big Cat Falls, Zoo360 animal trails, African Plains, and 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, Fairmount Park attractions, Zoo360, Philadelphia attractions, Big Cat Falls, Philadelphia family activities
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


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

Revision as of 18:48, 30 December 2025

Philadelphia Zoo
Type Zoological garden
Location Fairmount Park (West)
Coordinates 39.9710,-75.1960
Area 42 acres
Established 1874
Operated by Philadelphia Zoological Society
Features America's first zoo, Big Cat Falls, African Plains, SEPTA Zoo Key
Hours Daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM (varies seasonally)
Transit SEPTA bus 38; PHLASH trolley
Website Official Site

Philadelphia Zoo is a 42-acre zoological garden in 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.[1]

The zoo combines historic significance with modern conservation and animal welfare practices.

History

Founding

The Philadelphia Zoological Society was founded in 1859:

  • First zoological society in America
  • Civil War delayed opening
  • July 1, 1874: Zoo opened to public
  • 3,000 visitors on opening day
  • Admission: 25 cents for adults, 10 cents for children

America's First Zoo

Philadelphia led the way:

  • First scientific zoological garden in America
  • Modeled on European zoos
  • Combined education, conservation, recreation
  • Influenced zoos nationwide

Historic Buildings

Several original structures survive:

  • 1876 Centennial structures
  • Victorian-era buildings
  • Listed on National Register of Historic Places
  • Adapted for modern use

Evolution

The zoo has continuously evolved:

  • Early menagerie style to naturalistic habitats
  • Conservation mission development
  • Breeding programs
  • Zoo360 innovation (2011+)

Features

Zoo360

Revolutionary animal trail system:

  • 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

  • Lions, tigers, pumas, jaguars
  • Naturalistic habitats
  • Waterfalls and pools
  • Close viewing areas

African Plains

  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Hippos
  • Rhinos
  • Open savanna design

Primate Reserve

  • Gorillas
  • Orangutans
  • Gibbons
  • Gorilla Treeway overhead crossing

KidZooU

Children's zoo area:

  • Hands-on experiences
  • Domestic animals
  • Interactive elements
  • Educational programs

SEPTA PZ Express

  • Zoo train ride
  • Circuit through grounds
  • Popular with families

Historic Architecture

  • Victorian-era buildings
  • Antelope House
  • Bear Country
  • Solitude (historic mansion on grounds)

Animals

Notable Species

Over 1,300 animals representing nearly 400 species:

  • Big cats: Lions, tigers, snow leopards, jaguars
  • Primates: Gorillas, orangutans, gibbons
  • African mammals: Giraffes, hippos, zebras, rhinos
  • Bears: Polar bears, spectacled bears
  • Reptiles: Komodo dragon, crocodilians
  • Birds: Extensive bird collection

Conservation Programs

The zoo participates in:

  • Species Survival Plans (SSP)
  • Breeding programs for endangered species
  • Field conservation support
  • Research partnerships

Visiting

Hours

  • Daily: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last entry 4 PM)
  • Hours may vary seasonally
  • Check website for current schedule

Admission

  • General admission fee
  • Children under 2 free
  • Member discounts
  • Various packages available
  • 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

  • Arrive early—less crowded and animals more active
  • Zoo360 trails are worth planning around
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
  • The historic buildings are interesting in themselves
  • Pack lunch or eat at zoo eateries

Events

Annual Events

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

Programs

  • Behind-the-scenes tours
  • Keeper chats
  • Educational programs
  • Summer camps
  • Animal encounters

Nearby

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Philadelphia Zoo". Philadelphia Zoological Society. Retrieved December 30, 2025
Retrieved from "https://philadelphia.wiki/index.php?title=Philadelphia_Zoo&oldid=830"