Philadelphia Zoo

What's New at Philadelphia Zoo

Explore the Newly Opened Francis J. Carey Bear Country!

Opened on June 4, 2026

Visit Philadelphia Zoo’s newly refreshed and upgraded Francis J. Carey Bear Country!

This state-of-the-art facility was built with the highest standards for animal care in mind, making it one of the best in the country for vulnerable bears. It includes the addition of a third bear habitat, dedicated behind-the-scenes indoor and outdoor den spaces to support breeding programs, and a brand-new Zoo360 trail – Gould & Potter Crossing – for the bears to explore, the first-ever for bears at Philadelphia Zoo. Not only does Carey Bear Country enhance the Zoo’s animal care program, it creates a dynamic, memorable and educational experience for guests of all ages and backgrounds. This is the biggest construction project at Philadelphia Zoo in over a decade!

Bring Storytime to Life at Philadelphia Zoo’s Animal Tales

Takes place on Tuesdays from June 23 to August 18, 2026

Animal lovers, step inside Gorilla Theater and enjoy a morning of stories, learning, and wildlife encounters at Animal Tales. Held every Tuesday ‘til August 18, this family-friendly program brings beloved storybooks to life in a unique setting: the zoo! Each session features an engaging read-aloud led by one of the Zoo’s community literacy partners, followed by a special meet-and-greet with an animal ambassador connected to the story.

It’s a fun way for children to build a love of reading while making real-world connections to the animals they learn about. Included with your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets, Animal Tales is sure to add an educational and playful touch to any zoo visit!

Event details

Dates: Tuesdays from June 23 until August 18, 2026

Time: 11AM–11:45AM

Location: Gorilla Theater in PECO Primate Reserve

Discover Philadelphia Zoo

At Philadelphia Zoo, the Zoo moves around you! Zoo360, a first-in-the-world system of animal exploration trails, provides the Zoo’s beautiful big cats, playful lemurs, and lively monkeys ways to explore, passing through treetops and crossing over pathways. As one of the region's top conversation and education organizations, and America's first zoo, the Zoo offers 42 acres of award-winning animal exhibits and beautiful garden spaces. Ready to make unforgettable memories? Grab your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets today and prepare to explore one of the world’s most celebrated zoos!

Buy Discount Philadelphia Zoo Tickets from FunEx

Animals You’ll Find at Philadelphia Zoo

Galapagos Tortoise

Meet the Galapagos tortoise, one of the largest living tortoise species in the world! Known for its slow, steady lifestyle, it can live for over a century. At the zoo, it grazes on leafy greens, hay, and seasonal produce like papaya and watermelon, spending much of its day resting after long sunbathing sessions.

Exhibit: Reptile and Amphibian House

Amur Tiger

The Amur tiger, once called the Siberian tiger, is the world’s largest big cat and a powerful, solitary predator. Native to the Amur River Valley, it thrives on a rich diet of beef and bones while demonstrating strong territorial instincts and complex social behaviors.

Exhibit: Big Cat Falls

African Lion

African lions are the most social of all big cats, living in prides that can include dozens of members. The Philadelphia Zoo is also known for its rare white lions, whose striking coloration makes them highly vulnerable in the wild but captivating in protected habitats.

Exhibit: Big Cat Falls

Don’t miss out on seeing these majestic animals and more with your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets!

Attractions at Philly Zoo

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences: Animal Encounters

Philly Zoo offers unforgettable interactive experiences with some of its animals! These unique semi-private meet-and-greets allow you to get close to some of your favorite creatures, including a white rhino, hippos, and giant tortoises! You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the dedicated keepers who care for these incredible creatures. Don’t miss out on this intimate and educational opportunity!

(Note: Behind-the-Scenes Experiences may have separate charges and are not included in your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets. Subject to weather and availability.)

Best Dining Options at Philly Zoo

• Tiger Terrace

  features Chickie’s and Pete’s crab fries (GF), cheesesteaks, cheeseburgers, mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, pizza, grilled chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, Beyond burgers (plant-based), and refillable souvenir beverages (gluten-free buns available upon request).

• Tiger Terrace Express Market

  is a grab-n-go self-checkout location featuring beverages, sandwiches & salads, kids snacks, chips, candy and adult beverages.

• Eat Drink Taco Truck

  features specialty tacos, nachos, and beverages.

• Mini Melts

  features assorted Mini Melts ice cream flavors.

(Note: Dining is not included in your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets. Subject to weather and availability.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Philly Zoo's operating hours?

   The Zoo is open daily from 9:30am – 5:00pm through October; days and hours change starting in November. Entrance to the Zoo is allowed until 3:00pm. Please visit philadelphiazoo.org/hours-directions-parking/ for current operating hours.

2. Where is Philadelphia Zoo located?

   Philly Zoo is situated at 3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104. Get your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets and drop by!

3. How long does it take to go through the Philly Zoo?

   A visit to the Philadelphia Zoo can last between a couple of hours to an entire day, the latter if you want to maximize your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets.

4. Is there parking at Philadelphia Zoo?

   Yes, there is! Guests arriving by car can take advantage of several parking options, including the Zoo Garage at 35th & Girard, the Tiger Parking Lot on 34th Street, and Zoological Drive. Both the Garage and Tiger Lot offer accessible spaces and spots for vans. Do note that the parking fee is separate from your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets.

5. What safety guidelines should I follow at Philly Zoo?

   For everyone's safety, follow these guidelines:

   • Do not feed the animals or tap/knock on exhibit glass.

   • Respect all barriers and fences.

   • No smoking, including e-cigarettes.

   If you see something concerning, say something to Zoo staff immediately.

6. Can I take photographs or videos at Philly Zoo?

   Yes, guests are welcome to take photographs and videos for personal use only.

7. What should I do if I lose something at Philly Zoo?

   If you lose or misplace an item, please ask any Zoo employee for directions to the Lost and Found for assistance.

8. Why is Philadelphia Zoo famous?

   There are many reasons Philadelphia Zoo is a famous nationwide attraction! For one, it pioneered having on-site animal centers to care for any creatures who are hurt or need looking after. It’s one of the first zoos to advocate for animal conservation, and it continues to develop and adopt innovative technologies to accommodate animals and guests alike. Experience the magic of nature that your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets offer today!

9. How much time is covered by my discount Philadelphia Zoo ticket?

   Your discount Philadelphia Zoo tickets allows you access to the zoo for 5.5 to 7.5 hours, depending on the day. You can utilize as much time as you need to explore all the zoo’s exhibits, shows, and activities!

10. How big is Philly Zoo?

    Philadelphia Zoo is 42 acres big. That’s the size of almost 6 full-size football fields!

11. Is Philly Zoo the first zoo in America?

    Yes, Philadelphia Zoo is the first zoo in America, being over 160 years old! The charter for the Zoo was signed in 1859, but opening was delayed 15 years due to the Civil War. The Zoo opened its gates to 3,000 visitors on July 1, 1874.

12. How many animals are at Philly Zoo?

    There are 1,900 animals that call Philadelphia Zoo home.

13. Where can I get discounted Philadelphia Zoo tickets?

    You can find great deals on tickets to Philadelphia Zoo right here on FunEx! Simply choose your preferred date and time on the calendar, add your discount tickets to your cart, and check out. Just like that, you’re all set for a fun and educational day with amazing wildlife.

14. What’s included in my discounted Philadelphia Zoo tickets?

    Your ticket to Philadelphia Zoo includes general admission to the zoo’s animal exhibits and select events. Please note that some special or seasonal events, such as LumiNature, may require a separate ticket.

15. Will my child require a separate Philadelphia Zoo ticket?

    Yes, children will need their own ticket for entry to Philadelphia Zoo. Discounted child admission is available through FunEx for guests aged 2 to 11!

Last updated June 22, 2026.