Elmwood Park Zoo, located in Norristown, Pennsylvania, is a beloved destination for families, animal enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. With over 150 species of animals from around the world, the zoo offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. But what do the reviews say? In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the world of Elmwood Park Zoo reviews and ratings to help you plan your visit.
Overview of Elmwood Park Zoo
Before we dive into the reviews, let's take a brief look at what Elmwood Park Zoo has to offer. Spread across 16 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the zoo is home to over 150 species of animals, including some rare and endangered species. The zoo's mission is to inspire a love of nature and a commitment to conservation in its visitors, and it achieves this through a range of interactive exhibits, educational programs, and conservation efforts.
Visitor Reviews and Ratings
So, what do visitors have to say about their experience at Elmwood Park Zoo? We've compiled a summary of reviews from various sources, including Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews.
- Yelp: 4/5 stars (based on 200+ reviews)
- TripAdvisor: 4/5 stars (based on 500+ reviews)
- Google Reviews: 4.4/5 stars (based on 1,000+ reviews)
Reviewers praise the zoo for its:
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
- Well-maintained and clean facilities
- Variety of animals and interactive exhibits
- Beautiful grounds and picnic areas
- Reasonable admission prices
However, some reviewers mention:
- Limited dining options
- Some exhibits are small or outdated
- Crowds can be large during peak season
Top-Rated Exhibits and Attractions
So, what are the must-see exhibits and attractions at Elmwood Park Zoo? Here are some of the top-rated ones:
- Giraffe Feeding Platform: Get up close and personal with the zoo's resident giraffes and feed them yourself!
- Elmwood Park Zoo's African Veldt: Explore the zoo's largest exhibit, featuring animals such as rhinos, lions, and hyenas.
- Primate Passage: See monkeys and apes in a naturalistic habitat, complete with trees, vines, and water features.
- Zoo Train: Take a scenic ride around the zoo on a historic train.
- Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: Let the kids burn off energy at one of the zoo's playgrounds, or enjoy a family picnic in a beautiful setting.
Special Events and Programs
Elmwood Park Zoo offers a range of special events and programs throughout the year, including:
- Zoo Boo: A Halloween-themed event with trick-or-treating, costume contests, and more.
- Luminature: A winter light display featuring over 600,000 LED lights.
- Summer Concert Series: Free outdoor concerts featuring local bands and musicians.
- Zoo Camps: Educational programs for kids aged 4-14, focusing on wildlife conservation and education.
Conservation Efforts
Elmwood Park Zoo is committed to conservation and education, and offers a range of programs and initiatives to support these efforts, including:
- Species Survival Plan (SSP) Programs: Collaborative breeding programs for endangered species.
- Habitat Restoration: Efforts to restore and maintain natural habitats for local wildlife.
- Wildlife Education: Educational programs for schools and community groups.
- Recycling and Sustainability: Initiatives to reduce waste and increase sustainability within the zoo.
Plan Your Visit
Before you plan your visit to Elmwood Park Zoo, here are some essential details to keep in mind:
- Hours of Operation: 10am-5pm (April-September), 10am-4pm (October-March)
- Admission Prices: Adults $17, Children (3-12) $13, Children (2 and under) Free
- Parking: Free parking available on site
- Food and Drink: Limited dining options available, but picnics are welcome
Conclusion
Elmwood Park Zoo is a wonderful destination for families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts. With its beautifully landscaped grounds, variety of animals, and interactive exhibits, the zoo offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. While some reviewers mention limitations with dining options and crowds, the overall consensus is that Elmwood Park Zoo is a must-visit destination in the Philadelphia area.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Elmwood Park Zoo today and get ready for a wild adventure!
What are the zoo's hours of operation?
+The zoo is open from 10am-5pm (April-September) and 10am-4pm (October-March).
How much does admission cost?
+Admission prices are as follows: Adults $17, Children (3-12) $13, Children (2 and under) Free.
Are picnic areas available?
+Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the zoo, and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.