Philadelphia Zoo Reopens To Public With Increased Safety Measures

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Zoo is once again up to the public.

Zoo officials announced in late June plans to reopen the zoo to visitors in early July.

Thursday marks the first day the general public can visit the zoo since it closed on March 17. Earlier this week, zoo members only were permitted inside.

Even with public admittance available, the zoo is limiting visitors to 50 percent of its total capacity.

As with nearly all industries reopening, the zoo will implement health and safety measures recommended by state and local officials to provide a safe environment for humans and animals alike.

Tickets must be reserved or purchased in advance, as on-site ticket sales are not being offered.

Members must make advanced reservations online and may reserve one visit per membership at a time for up to the number of adults, children and guests covered by their membership.

Social distancing is required, and masks are required for guests 8 years of age and older; however masks are encouraged for children age 2 to 7. Kids under 2 years old are not required to wear masks.

Indoor animal exhibits and attractions including the Rainforest Carousel, Wildworks Ropes Course, SEPTA PZ Express Train, and Swan Boats remain closed.

Zoo goers will find touchless toilets, faucets, paper towel and soap dispensers. Hand sanitizing stations have been installed throughout the zoo.

Additional grab and go food selections and touchless transactions will be available at food locations like The Urban Green, Impala Plaza, Eagles' Roost.

Guests can also bring their own food in the zoo.

A team of zoo staff will be dedicated to sanitizing and cleaning high touch areas.

The zoo will implement new procedures that allow public safety officers to check bags without touching.