Philadelphia Zoo: A Family Guide (Philadelphia, PA)
Zoo360 is one exciting feature of the Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo was the first zoo in the United States, and its signature Zoo360 trails let animals travel in mesh pathways overhead, so children often look up to find a big cat passing above them.
Overview
Spread across 42 acres in historic Fairmount Park, the zoo is home to more than 1,900 animals. Families can explore exhibits like Big Cat Falls, African Plains, and the KidZooU children's zoo, and watch for the Zoo360 trails that carry animals above and around the paths. It is a full day of walking, watching, and learning in the open air, with indoor animal houses along the way.
Why Kids Love It (and What They Learn)
Nature and Environmental Learning: Seeing real animals up close builds a child's understanding of the natural world and why habitats and conservation matter.
Curiosity and Wonder: The Zoo360 trails and the variety of species reward the natural urge to watch, ask, and look closer.
Happy Day Play’s Tips and Tricks
Wear comfortable shoes, because a full loop covers a lot of ground!
Arrive early on weekends before crowds build and the animals settle in for the afternoon.
Check the map for the Zoo360 trails so you can catch animals moving overhead.
Use KidZooU as a hands-on break for younger children.
Know Before You Go
General Admission: Ages 2+ $20-$34 (dynamic/date-based pricing); ages 0-1 and members free
Add-Ons: Parking $22/vehicle (free for members); memberships; separately-ticketed experiences
Stroller Friendly: Yes
Nursing Rooms: Mamava lactation pod is located inside the atrium of the Rare Animal Conservation Center. Additional dedicated nursing suite options are also available in newer areas like Carey Bear Country.
Family Restrooms: Yes - family restrooms at Main Entrance, KidZooU, and WildWorks Plaza; KidZooU has adult-size changing tables
Food: Yes - on-site dining and an outdoor food-truck area
Sensory Inclusion: Yes - KultureCity sensory inclusive certified; free sensory bags, quiet & headphone zones
Getting There and Parking
On-site parking is available in the Zoo Garage, the Tiger Parking Lot, and other nearby lots for about $22 per vehicle, free for members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Philadelphia Zoo good for toddlers? Yes. Children under two are free, the paths are stroller-friendly, and KidZooU is designed for hands-on time with younger kids.
How much does it cost? General admission is required for ages two and up and varies by date, with children under two free. Parking is an additional fee of about $22 per vehicle, free for members.
Is it indoor or outdoor? Mostly outdoors across 42 acres, with indoor animal houses along the route, so dress for the weather.
Is there parking? Yes, on-site parking is available for about $22 per vehicle, free for members.
How long should we plan to stay? Many families spend three to five hours, since the zoo is large and there is a lot of walking.
Contact Info
philadelphiazoo.org | (215) 243-1100 | @phillyzoo | 3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104
