Philadelphia, PA - Pennsylvania boasts many zoos that offer visitors of all ages year-round opportunities to discover wildlife. The Quaker State is home to numerous aquariums showcasing land and sea animals. Popular zoos in PA include Philadelphia Zoo, Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, Erie Zoo, Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, and Clyde Peeling's Reptiland Wolf Sanctuary of PA.
Philadelphia Zoo
Established in the 1800s, Philadelphia Zoo is one of America's oldest zoos with a fantastic collection of animals. Visitors can observe jungle cats, primates, elephants, polar bears and red pandas up close! Aside from its impressive collection of animals, the zoo also takes part in conservation initiatives to safeguard endangered species worldwide. This makes it a family-friendly destination all year long! One of the highlights at the zoo is the Komodo Dragon Exhibit. These giant lizards are found only on a few islands in Indonesia and offer visitors an up-close and personal encounter with these magnificent reptiles.
Erie Zoo
The Erie Zoo is a beautiful destination for the whole family to enjoy. It boasts nearly 400 animals from around the globe that will delight all your senses. The zoo is divided into four sections, each featuring animals from various regions worldwide. This makes it simple for kids to explore the zoo and discover all its amazing creatures. The zoo offers several other activities suitable for all ages, such as a carousel and miniature train (both at an additional cost).
Pittsburgh Zoo
Pittsburgh's zoo is one of the top attractions in the region, boasting hundreds of animals from all corners of the globe - many endangered or threatened! Visitors to this zoo can experience first-hand hundreds of species from every corner, making it an unforgettable destination. The zoo has eight distinct sections, each with its theme. The African Savanna area showcases elephants, lions, and giraffes; the Asian Forest boasts tigers, red pandas, and snow leopards, while PPG Aquarium houses fish and penguins alike. At the Zoo, visitors get to admire animals and learn more about them. Its world-class conservation efforts make for a fascinating day at the zoo that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Elmwood Park Zoo
Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown is an ideal choice for a fun, educational, and safe family attraction to visit with the kids. Here you'll find hundreds of exotic and endangered species - perfect for any adventure! Beyond the animals, plenty of attractions and activities occupy you and your children during your trip. Plus, the zoo is inclusive, providing programs for guests who are blind or have autism.
National Aviary
Nature enthusiasts will delight in the National Aviary. This zoo, the largest in Pennsylvania, boasts hundreds of birds from around the globe. The Aviary also offers daily interactive experiences for visitors. Visitors can join feedings, and bird shows while learning more about wildlife conservation. Here, you'll find bald eagles, condors, macaws, rainbow lorikeets, and toucans, among other birds of prey. Several areas are designed to replicate their natural habitats for these magnificent creatures: a tropical rainforest exhibit, an atrium, a wetlands area, and a cloud forest.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park
Since 1965, Lake Tobias Wildlife Park has delighted visitors with exotic animals and thrilling safari tours. Situated north of Harrisburg on 150 acres, this wildlife park and zoo provide a unique combination of traditional zoo amenities and an exciting safari adventure! At the park, guests can experience an up-close and personal look at many animals on the property with their Safari Tour, which takes guests around in a bus converted into a top-less cruiser. Unlike most safaris in the region, guests don't need to deal with off-road jeep dangers for this experience.
Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland Wolf Sanctuary of PA
Clyde Peeling's Reptiland is an incredible zoo that showcases exotic reptiles and amphibians from around the globe. You'll find mambas, cobras, vipers, pythons, giant alligators, gentle tortoises, and curious lizards within stunning naturalistic habitats. The AZA accredits this specialized zoo and boasts a passionate staff dedicated to educating and conservating lesser-known members of the animal kingdom. They strive to provide visitors with an enjoyable, secure experience that introduces them to their natural environment through fun exhibits and live shows.
