PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Zoo is celebrating its 150th anniversary with steep discounts.
The Zoo plans to celebrate the milestone with special anniversary events, deals, membership packages and giveaways.
On opening day, July 1, 1874, guests arrived at the gates of America's first zoo in horse and carriage, by street car, foot and even steamboat. As guests entered, they 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 (a type of bird) donated by President Ulysses S. Grant.
To celebrate 150 years, the zoo announced the following deals and events:
- Flash sale with $18.74 tickets for purchase this week, to be used later this summer
- $150 for 150 Years Anniversary Ticket Bundle now through Labor Day
- $150 Anniversary Membership Deal now through July 1st
- Complimentary"150 Years of Philly Zoo" pin to first 150 guests June 28-June 30
- Festivities and Comp Zoo admission on the actual anniversary on July 1st as part of Wawa Welcome America
- Plus some additional surprises and a media event to be announced
“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.
“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," he continued.
On the big day- Monday, July 1- the Philadelphia Zoo will celebrate its 150th anniversary like it's 1874! A brass band will greet guests as they enter the zoo from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Dietz & Watson will be selling $1.50 hotdogs at the zoo to celebrate and animals will have 150th-themed animal enrichment.
Also on July 1, Wawa Welcome America will be hosting a Philadelphia Zoo 150th Anniversary Celebration just outside the Zoo from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Guests of all ages can enjoy comp food samples, performances, face painting, arts and crafts, games and more.
The no-charge celebration will also feature unique opportunities to see some favorite animals and learn about the Zoo in a unique way. Guests can enjoy complimentary admission to the Philadelphia Zoo from 3-5 p.m., on a first come first served basis.
