Situated in the heart of Erie, Pennsylvania, the Erie Zoo is a wonderful family-friendly destination that offers a unique blend of natural education and entertainment. With an impressive array of wildlife, beautifully curated botanical spaces, and engaging educational programs, the Erie Zoo provides an enriching and memorable experience for all ages.
The Wildlife Experience
The Erie Zoo houses over 400 animals representing more than 100 species from around the globe. Visitors can explore various exhibits that emulate the animals’ natural habitats, fostering a better understanding of diverse ecosystems. From majestic African lions and playful orangutans to exotic reptiles and colorful birds, the zoo offers a close-up look at a world of fascinating creatures.
One of the highlights is the Children’s Zoo, featuring a petting zoo where young visitors can interact with friendly domestic animals, offering an engaging and tactile learning experience.
Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Complementing the Erie Zoo’s wildlife is the exquisite collection of botanical gardens. These gardens showcase a variety of plant species, including seasonal flowers, majestic trees, and exotic plants from different climate zones. The Haupt Conservatory, a serene greenhouse, is home to a stunning collection of tropical and subtropical plants, creating a lush oasis whatever the weather outside.
The Water Garden, featuring beautiful aquatic plants, and the Sensory Garden, designed to engage all the senses with fragrant and tactile plants, are other must-see attractions within the botanical gardens.
Facilities and Amenities
The Erie Zoo offers several amenities for the convenience of its visitors, including dining options, picnic areas, and a gift shop featuring a wide range of souvenirs. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent, and the zoo train provides a fun and convenient way to get around the grounds.
Erie Zoo Gift Shop
The zoo offers a gift shop where visitors can purchase a variety of merchandise and souvenirs related to the zoo and its animals. The gift shop is a great place to find unique items such as plush animals, t-shirts, hats, mugs, keychains, and other memorabilia. The gift shop is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
If Erie Zoo members display their membership card, they will receive a 10% discount on all purchases of $5.00 or more.
Educational Programs and Events
Education is a core component of Erie Zoo’s mission. The zoo offers a wide range of programs, including summer camps, guided tours, and animal feeding experiences, designed to educate visitors about wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and the environment. These programs cater to a variety of age groups, making learning accessible and fun for everyone.
Throughout the year, the zoo hosts a variety of events, from ‘ZooBoo’ during the Halloween season to ‘Galapazooza’, a summer fundraising event featuring live music and auctions.
The Erie Zoo is more than just a place to see animals and plants; it’s a vibrant educational center that fosters appreciation and understanding of the natural world. Its blend of wildlife exhibits, beautifully maintained gardens, and robust educational programs make it a standout destination in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family with young children, or someone looking to spend a day immersed in natural beauty, the zoo promises a visit full of discovery, learning, and fun.
Conservation Efforts
The Erie Zoo actively participates in species survival plans, breeding programs, and conservation initiatives. It’s part of the zoo’s commitment to protecting endangered species and educating the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Map of Erie Zoo
Erie Zoo Passes
The Erie Zoo offers an excellent opportunity for frequent visitors and animal enthusiasts to enjoy unlimited access to the zoo throughout the year by purchasing Erie Zoo Memberships. Here are the different types of memberships:
- Family Plus: admission for two adults and their children, plus 10 guest admissions, for $99
- Family: admission for two adults and their children, for $85
- Single Parent: admission for one named adult and his/her children, plus 5 guest admissions, for $85
- Individual: admission for one adult, plus 10 guest admissions, for $85
- Grandparent Plus: admission for two adults and all of their grandchildren, plus 10 guest admissions, for $99
- Grandparent: admission for two adults and all of their grandchildren, for $85
- Single Grandparent: admission for one adult and all of his/her grandchildren, plus 5 guest admissions, for $85
Erie Zoo Hours of Operation
The Erie Zoo and the Botanical Gardens are open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The last admission is until 4:15 pm.
The office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm but closed on major holidays.
Where is Erie Zoo?
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