Address: 3400 West Girard Avenue
Pricing: Adults $18, Children $15.
Phone: (215) 243-1100
Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Closed major holidays.
Parking:On site. $8/vehicle
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Philadelphia Zoo: America's First Zoo
Jan 3, 2010
The Philadelphia Zoo is considered to be America's first and oldest zoo. Located on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, this popular tourist attraction was founded in 1859 is home to more than 1,300 animals and is situated on 42 acres of land.
Popular attractions at the Philadelphia Zoo include a large children's zoo, paddleboat lake and a hot air balloon ride. In addition, the zoo features dozens of fun exhibits designed to educate patrons on wildlife and wildlife conservation throughout the world.
The Channel 6 ZooBalloon will have kids and parents alike staring in amazement as it takes them 400 feet into the air for an amazing aerial view of the park and the Philadelphia skyline.
The zoo's exhibits include Big Cat Falls, which features lions, jaguars, tigers, and pumas in a natural-style habitat; The Dodge Rare Animal Conservation Center, which features endangered species like naked mole-rats and tree kangaroos; The Reptile and Amphibian House, which features 125 species; Carnivore Kingdom, which features giant otters, snow leopards, and pandas; the African plains, which feature warthogs, antelope, hippos, gazelles, zebras and giraffes; and a South American exhibit that features capybaras and anteaters.
The Animal Health Center is a fully-functioning wild animal hospital that treats and nurses wild animals back to health and either releases them into the wild or sends them to other zoos in the region.
A large variety of concession stands and cafes appear on the campus so that hungry visitors can grab a bite of fresh pizza, hot dogs, nuts or ice cream to calm their grumbly tummies. Picnic facilities are also available for those who wish to bring packed lunches.
- by LeeAnn Mullen, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro
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LeeAnn MullenLeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.
