Step Back in Time: The Philadelphia Zoo’s "Zoo Done It?" Mystery Scavenger Hunt Returns. Get your flapper dresses and fedoras ready—the Philadelphia Zoo is bringing back its sold-out summer mystery night! Partnering once again with Without a Cue Productions, the Zoo is hosting its third annual “Zoo Done It?” event on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
This immersive, after-hours scavenger hunt gives guests the unique opportunity to explore the Zoo’s enchanting grounds while piecing together a thrilling 1920s whodunit.
The Mystery: The Case of the Missing Tiger
This isn't your standard walk through the park. Guests will be transported exactly 100 years into the past to the year 1926.
The world-famous Tasmanian tiger has just arrived from the London Zoo, drawing massive crowds for a lavish grand unveiling. But there's a catch: right before the curtain rises, the rare creature vanishes without a trace!
Participants will take on the role of live-action detectives. Throughout the evening, you will:
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Track down suspicious characters lurking around the Zoo.
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Uncover hidden clues scattered across the grounds.
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Interrogate live actors to figure out who is telling the truth—and who pulled off the daring heist.
Event Details at a Glance
To ensure your investigation goes smoothly, here is everything you need to know before you arrive at the scene of the crime:
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Date & Time: Saturday, August 1, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 PM, the show starts at 6:00 PM, and the mystery wraps up by 8:30 PM.
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New Age Requirement: For the first time, guests 16 and older are welcome, making this a perfect evening for families with older teenagers to connect and solve the case together.
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Dress Code: 1920s apparel is highly encouraged! Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for tracking down clues.
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Location: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue. Complimentary parking is included with your ticket.
"We are excited to expand our audience for this fan-favorite event that will allow families to bring their older children for an evening of fun and connection. We are always looking for unique ways to connect people with Philadelphia Zoo, and this event is the perfect way to experience the Zoo with a twist." — Patrick McMaster, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
What’s on the Line? The Grand Prize
Solving the mystery comes with a spectacular reward. One lucky winner (or winning team) will take home a grand prize package that includes:
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A private guided tour of The Solitude, a famous American historic landmark on Zoo grounds long rumored to be haunted, just in time for the spooky season.
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Two Flex Passes to the Red Rum Theater (good for three shows).
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A Behind-the-Scenes Experience for a group of 4 to 6 guests.
Ticket Information
Tickets are on sale now starting at $70, with early bird pricing expiring soon. Philadelphia Zoo members will receive a $10 discount on all ticket purchases.
For guests looking to upgrade their investigation, the Prime Suspects Bundle includes event admission, popcorn, a drink ticket (valid for alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages), and a classic Zoo Key.
To secure your spot and start your investigation, visit the official event page at philadelphiazoo.org/events.
