Elmwood Park Zoo553

The winner of our 2008 Parents' Picks quest to find the Best Day Camp for Big Kids in Philadelphia, the 16-acre Elmwood Park Zoo has a lot to offer, especially for smaller children who don't require the thrill of the larger beasts.

The zoo houses more than 200 fascinating wild animals of North and South America, including jaguars, cougars, wolves, bison, elk, prairie dogs, otters, bobcats, alligators, eagles, owls, and others. The exhibits present the animals in their natural settings, where they can be viewed at close range. Highlights for many young visitors include the zoo's live animal shows, petting barn, and pony rides, offered April through September (weather permitting).

Elmwood Park Zoo also features Zone's Cougar Cafe and the Lenore Weiss Nature Shop, and offers annual memberships, birthday parties, educational programs, summer/spring camp, rentals, and special events such as Conservation Celebration and Nightmare and Elmwood. Private functions such as parties must booked at least two weeks in advance by calling 610.277.3825 ext. 225.