In 1859, Philadelphia became home to America’s first zoo.  Now celebrating over 150 years of innovation and achievement, Philadelphia Zoo is a key part of our region’s life and culture, a compelling living classroom, and a conservation leader.

Commitment to our core purpose—connecting people with wildlife and inspiring action for animals and habitats—energizes our staff and volunteers and challenges us to set increasingly high expectations for our performance and impact. Philadelphia Zoo works to fulfill our mission as an animal care organization, as a resource to schools and families, and as an ark and advocate for endangered animals around the world.