Philadelphia Zoo
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The Philadelphia Zoo, located in Fairmount Park on the west bank of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, was the first zoo in the United States. Chartered by the state on March 21, 1859, its opening was delayed by the American Civil War until July 1, 1874.
The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the premier zoos in the world for breeding animals that often are difficult to breed in captivity. The zoo also works with many groups around the world to protect the natural habitats of the animals in their care. The Victorian garden comprises 42 acres and is home to more than 1,500 animals, many of which are rare and endangered. In addition, the Channel 6 Zooballooon, which soars 400 feet in the air, offers one of the best views of the Zoo and the city skyline. The Zoo also boasts a duck pond-turned swan paddleboat lake, an exhibit in which guests can purchase nectar and feed tropical birds and a virtual African safari ride.