Philadelphia Zoo

Opened in 1874 as the Philadelphia Zoological Garden, the Philadelphia Zoo is commonly cited as the first true zoological park in the United States. The site at 3400 W Girard Ave retains original late-19th-century structures and early animal houses alongside modern exhibits, reflecting evolving zoo infrastructure. Its historic landscape and enclosures illustrate late-19th- and early-20th-century approaches to animal display and public recreation.