Philadelphia Zoo
| 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
- Fairmount Park — Surrounding park
- Please Touch Museum — Memorial Hall nearby
- Shofuso Japanese House and Garden — West Fairmount Park
- Mann Center — Nearby performance venue
- Girard College — Across Girard Avenue
See Also
References
- ↑ "Philadelphia Zoo". Philadelphia Zoological Society. Retrieved December 30, 2025