FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do I join the Zoo?

A: You can become a member right away! Join online or call the Membership Department seven days a week, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, at 215-243-5254. You can also join at the Zoo, but we recommend that you purchase online to avoid the line!

Q: How long will my membership last?

A: Memberships are valid for one full year (365 days), so you can visit year-round! Please note that the Zoo is closed Thanksgiving Day, December 24-25, December 31 and January 1. Rarely, the Zoo will close for weather or operational issues. Unscheduled closures will be announced as early as possible on Facebook and this website. If you are renewing a current membership, your new expiration date will be a year from your current expiration date or 365 days from today, whichever is later.

Q: Is there special parking for members?

A: Members may park in any of the Zoo's lots free of charge (one car per visit). All lots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking lots are located on 34th Street and on Girard Avenue. Please use your valid membership card or temporary card and photo ID to obtain parking privileges.

Q: Why do I have to show a photo I.D. when I use my card to enter the Zoo?

A: As a nonprofit organization, we rely heavily on membership and attendance for support. To prevent misuse of your membership card, we ask that adult cardholders show a photo I.D. when entering and parking at the Zoo. We appreciate your understanding.

Q: Must I accompany my guests?

A: Yes. At least one named adult cardholder must accompany guests for all memberships with guest privileges. Members receiving free one-time guest tickets may give those to friends and family to use at any time, even if they are not attending. Members wishing to purchase discounted guest tickets for $18.00 must be present at the box office on the day of their guest’s visit to purchase tickets.

Q: My membership card has been lost/stolen. Can I request a new card?

A: Yes, there is a $10 fee to replace lost or stolen cards. Please call 215-243-5254 to order your replacement card.

Q: When will I get my membership card?

A: Your membership card will be mailed within two weeks. You may pick up a one-day pass if you have not received your card. Just stop by member services, with ID, to pick up a one day pass.

Q: Can I use my Philadelphia Zoo membership at other zoos and aquariums?

A: Yes. The Zoo participates in a reciprocal program with zoos and aquariums across the country that entitles Philadelphia Zoo members to discounted admission. We recommend you contact the zoo or aquarium prior to your visit to confirm their policies. View the complete list of reciprocal zoos and aquariums.

Q: Can a friend or family member use my membership card?

A: Memberships are nontransferable and valid only for those individuals listed on the card and the number of children covered by the membership (if applicable). A third adult name may be added to Family, Family Plus, Family Deluxe and Contributor membership for $37. Please call Member Services at 215-243-5254 to add an adult to your membership. Names on cards may not be changed until the membership is renewed.

Your family members who are current college or university students may purchase Student memberships for $30. This includes free admission for one year for one student cardholder age 18 or older. Student memberships must be purchased at the box office; valid student ID is required.

Remember, photo ID is required to park and enter the Zoo. The Zoo reserves the right to deny access and/or revoke memberships without refund for fraud or misuse.

Q: Can I apply the cost of my general admission tickets towards a membership?

A: Yes, you may apply the cost of your general admission tickets and parking within five days of your visit. Please note that some exceptions do apply. Please call for more details.

Q: Can I purchase a membership as a gift?

A. Yes. Currently gift memberships can be purchased by calling 215-243-5254, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please have the names and birthdates for the gift recipients ready. Zoo gift certificates are also available online. Gift certificates can be redeemed at any time by the recipient for memberships, tickets, parking, and attractions. Print your gift certificate immediately for the perfect last-minute gift!

Renewing a gift membership for someone? Please call 215-243-5254 and our Member Services team can assist you.

Zoo gift certificates are also available online. Gift certificates can be redeemed at any time by the recipient for memberships, tickets, parking, food purchases, and attractions. Print your gift certificate immediately for the perfect last-minute gift!

Q. Are business or group memberships available?

A. Memberships are for personal household use only. Businesses and groups may purchase tickets at the group rate by calling 215-243-5235.

Q. Can my membership be used when I visit with a group?

A. A membership that is valid at the time of the visit may be used for free admission for a chaperone or teacher who is a member and their own children.  Guest admission does not apply to other individuals in the group.