This summer, celebrate the 150th anniversary of America’s first zoo! The Philadelphia Zoo is gearing up to commemorate this milestone with a special anniversary celebration, discounted pricing, and fantastic giveaways for the whole family.
The Philadelphia Zoo Turns 150
On July 1, 1874, Philadelphia Zoo opened its gates for the very first time, welcoming more than 3,000 guests and marking its place in history as “America’s First Zoo.” On that day guests arrived by horse and carriage, by street car, by foot, and even by steam boat which carried residents from Center City up the Schuylkill River to a dock adjacent to the Zoo.
Markedly, upon entry, guests were greeted by a lively brass band before taking a stroll through the Victorian gardens and visiting nearly 600 animals, which included a pair of curassows (type of bird) donated by President Ulysses. S. Grant.
To celebrate this historic achievement and thank Philadelphia and the region for being a part of its story for the last 150 years, the Zoo will be hosting additional celebrations, ticket and membership deals, and giveaways and contests for fans of all ages – including special priced memberships and more.
“Philadelphia Zoo has welcomed nearly 100 million guests since the Zoo first opened its gates 150 years ago, connecting generations of families to the wonders of wildlife, and we cannot wait to celebrate this major milestone with the community that made us,” says President & CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman in an official press release. “As we mark this moment, we also celebrate 50 years of continuous accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and the highest standards in animal care and welfare.”
Exciting Promotions
Indeed, now is a great time to visit the zoo thanks in part to these unbeatable promotions.
Firstly, the Zoo will also have a special $150 ticket bundle available June 6 through Labor Day weekend (Monday, September 2). In this bundle, guests receive: 2 Adult Tickets, 2 Children’s Tickets, and a Zoo Attractions Pass that includes: 2 Nature Blazer Scavenger Hunt Wrist Bands, and 4 tickets each for Rainforest Carousel, SEPTA PZ Express Train and Wings of the World. Available online only.
Next, the Zoo will be hosting a special membership deal for $150 from Thursday, June 6 – Monday, July 1. Enjoy comp daytime admission on every operating day for a year and comp parking. You’ll also enjoy exclusive members-only events and content, discounts on dining and retail, and so much more! Not to mention, this is all while directly supporting Philadelphia Zoo.
The $150 deal includes (available online only):
- Admission for 2 named adults (18+)
- Admission for 2 children (17 & under) each visit
- 2 Nature Blazer Scavenger Hunt Wrist Bands for first visit
- Comp Parking
- Special Members-Only Events
- 10% off (online only) select attractions, General Admission guest, LumiNature and Summer Ale Fest tickets, and Behind-the-Scenes experiences
Celebrations
From Friday, June 28 – Sunday, June 30, the Zoo invites guests to come and experience the Zoo with a 150th flair. The first 150 guests on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will receive a commemorative “150 Years of Philly Zoo” pin. The Zoo’s animal habitats will have additional 150th-themed animal enrichment. The Conservation Education team will be hosting additional activities, including a daily history tour starting at 10:30am on Impala Plaza.
Then on Monday, July, 1, the Zoo will be celebrating its 150th grand opening anniversary in style—just like 1874! A brass band will greet guests as they enter the Zoo from 9:30-11:30am. Dietz & Watson will also be selling $1.50 hot dogs at the Zoo to celebrate. The Zoo’s animal habitats will also have additional 150th -themed animal enrichment. The Conservation Education team will also be hosting additional activities.
Also, on Monday, July 1, Wawa Welcome America will be hosting a Philadelphia Zoo 150th Anniversary Celebration. The festivities will take place just outside the Zoo from 1:00 – 5:00pm. Guests of all ages can enjoy comp food samples, performances, face painting, arts and crafts, games and more. This no-charge celebration will also feature unique opportunities to see some of your favorite animals. You’ll also learn about the Zoo in a unique way. Enjoy complimentary admission to the Philadelphia Zoo 3:00pm-5:00pm, on a first come first served basis.
Stay tuned to the Zoo’s website and social media channels for more ways the Zoo is celebrating 150 years of YOU!
