Experts' Choice Award Philadelphia Zoo
What the experts agree on
America's first zoo (1874) charms with Victorian-landscaped grounds and naturalistic habitats housing 1,300+ animals. The Zoo360 trails let creatures roam close to visitors, making the compact 42-acre space feel intimate.
“America's first zoo is a Victorian-landscaped, 42-acre area housing more than 1,300 animals in naturalistic habitats.”
– Where
Fodor's "It's small and well landscaped enough to feel pleasantly intimate, and the naturalistic habitats allow you to get close enough to hear the animals breathe." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"The country's oldest zoo has tigers, pumas, polar bears – you name it – in naturalistic habitats." Full review
Not For Tourists "Monkeys are funny."
Michelin Guide 1 Star
"Modeled on a Victorian pleasure garden, the grounds feature paths that ramble past more than 1,700 animals from around the globe." Full review
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Be sure to see the rare white lions, the Primate House, and endangered species in the Rare Animal House.
Time Out "Whatever your views are on animals in captivity, the Philadelphia Zoo’s Zoo360 project is giving its inhabitants more room to roam and choice locations to observe visitors." Full review
Afar Magazine "Like many other Philly institutions, the Philadelphia Zoo is America’s first." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Opened in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo is devoted to conservation and education through experiences with animals"
Philadelphia Travel Guide
July 6, 2021
Frommer's "The Philadelphia Zoo, opened in 1874, was the nation's first." Full review
Lonely Planet "Known for being the oldest zoo in the US, the Philadelphia Zoo was first chartered in 1859, with its opening delayed to 1874 due to the Civil War. History aside, it’s also one of the most..."
8 reasons to take your kids to Philadelphia
September 10, 2021
Time Out "Fly, swing, and leap over to America's longest-standing zoo for an afternoon of animal adventures to remember. First, dive into the newest addition, KidZooU, for a few furry up-and-close..."
Best Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids
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