Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Usama
The zoo in Philly is known as the country’s first zoo and one of the best zoological parks in the United States. If you plan to visit the Philadelphia Zoo, spare a few hours and explore the area properly—it offers a paddleboat lake, ropes course, various exhibits, and nearly 1,300 animals! To have the best experience, leaving your vehicle in a safe parking area is a must. Parking Access will take you through the process and help you find the most convenient Philadelphia Zoo parking spot! You will also learn more about the zoo admission tickets, parking near the zoo, and transportation alternatives.
Philadelphia Zoo Tickets
Most online tickets are designated for zoo members, but general admission guests can pre-purchase their tickets, too. The list below shows the admission rates:
| Adults | $24 |
| Children(2-11) | $19 |
| Children(under 2) | Free |
| Members | Free |
Note: Admission is free for members, but reservations are required! Also, BIG TIME isn’t included in general admission, so be sure to reserve your ticket for an additional $6. The zoo is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Philadelphia Zoo Parking Options
Philly Zoo parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The main facility is the Philadelphia Zoo parking garage, located a short walk away from the entrance. There are also Tiger Lot, Frog Lot, and Giraffe Lot, all placed within walking distance of the zoo. The garage offers three levels of covered parking spots, elevators, and wheelchair ramps. Visitors also have easy access to 76 East and West. Contactless entry allows you to speed up the process—scan the barcode with your phone, and you’re good to go! The daily parking rate is $17 for all guests except members, who are entitled to free parking. Each member gets one complimentary parking space.
Accessible Parking
Handicapped parking spaces are available in both the Philadelphia Zoo parking garage and Tiger Lot. Each visitor occupying an ADA spot needs to own a disabled parking permit, license plate, or placard. Standard parking rates apply.
Parking Near Philadelphia Zoo
The Philly Zoo garage and parking lots along Girard Avenue and 34th Street are the best options, but you can look for another option. According to several resources, no cheaper parking areas are available nearby. You could go south and find a spot for around $10, but the walk would take half an hour. On-street parking is the best alternative here, and most parking meters in Philadelphia charge $2 per hour.
Transportation Alternatives
The Philly Zoo is two miles from downtown. Instead of driving and paying for parking, use public transportation—both bus and trolley services run to the zoo. The closest rail station is at Girard Av & 34th St, which is a 5-minute walk from the zoo. Use SEPTA Trip Planner to discover which route to take and what is the cost. If you need a quicker alternative, grab a cab or request an app-based transfer like Uber or Lyft.
FAQs
- How much is parking at the Philadelphia Zoo?
The daily parking cost at the Philly Zoo is $17.
- Can you pay for the parking at the Philadelphia Zoo when you get there?
Yes! Reservations aren’t required but are recommended.
- How to reserve parking at the Philadelphia Zoo?
Visitors can book parking through sites like Parkopedia.
- What time does the Philadelphia Zoo open?
The zoo opens at 9:30 AM Wednesday through Sunday.
Other Helpful Car Parking Guides
The Parking Access team covers countless locations across the United States and helps millions of people find convenient parking! All visitors and residents of Philadelphia can also check out some of the following guides to learn more about event parking, airport parking, and long-term parking in Philly:
- Wells Fargo Center
- Lincoln Financial Field
- Citizens Bank Park
- Philadelphia Airport
- Philadelphia Monthly Parking
We can also assist you in planning your visit to another zoo—discover more about: