Best Zoos & Aquariums in Philadelphia for Kids & Families

6 family-friendly zoos & aquariums with age ratings and parent tips.

Highest rated: Reptile and Amphibian House, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, McNeil Avian Center. 1 listing is free. 1 listing is indoor. Qualified listings include age fit, stroller notes, cost signals, and practical planning tips.

By Kit, KidPaths editor

Reviews family planning details across KidPaths city guides.

This Philadelphia page currently has 6 qualified listings in zoos & aquariums that passed KidPaths' listing and photo checks. Start your comparison with Philadelphia Zoo, Elmwood Park Zoo, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, then use the age, cost and visit-length notes to narrow the list.

1 option is free. 6 options work indoors or in mixed weather. 4 options have confirmed stroller access. 6 picks fit toddlers and 6 picks fit big kids.

Start near opening, choose the animals your kids care about most and keep an indoor or seated break in reserve. Large campuses can turn one exciting stop into too much walking.

Top Picks

Reptile and Amphibian House

4.7 stars

The Reptile and Amphibian House at Philadelphia Zoo has crocodilians, giant pythons, Komodo dragons, colorful tree frogs, and a range of other reptile

All agesIndoorIncluded in Philadelphia Zoo admission (~$90-120 for family of 4)

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

4.7 stars

Children can scan the marsh for birds and other wildlife, borrow binoculars, cross a boardwalk, explore Visitor Center exhibits, and treat the refuge

Ages 4 to 12 for wildlife watching, short trails, binoculars, and hands-on nature learningFreeIndoor & OutdoorExpected cost is $0 for a basic trail and Visitor Center visit

McNeil Avian Center

4.6 stars

The McNeil Avian Center at the Philadelphia Zoo houses over 100 bird species in indoor aviaries and outdoor habitats, including large macaws, toucans,

All ages, especially ages 2-10Indoor & OutdoorIncluded in Philadelphia Zoo admission (~$90-120 for family of 4)

Elmwood Park Zoo

4.5 stars

Families can see zoo animals, feed giraffes when weather allows, ride a carousel or barrel train, make music on giant instruments, meet animal ambassa

Ages 2-12, with strong toddler and elementary-age appealIndoor & Outdoor$105

Philadelphia Zoo

4.5 stars

Children can see more than 1,900 animals, brush willing goats and sheep at KidZooU, walk among free-flying birds and add a train, carousel, wheel or g

Ages 2-12, with broad all-age appealIndoor & OutdoorAdmission varies by visit date, so there is no fixed official family total

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