Philadelphia Zoo

America’s first zoo gives you and the children the chance to go on safari in the big city. For the little ones, the children’s zoo offers animals to pet, ponies to ride ($5) and a tree house for climbing. Wowing exhibits include Big Cat Falls, a lush landscape in which a dozen endangered cats prowl, including the occasional baby puma or snow leopard cub. The dimly lit reptile house can be a bit spooky for sensitive tykes, but the chance to see a gator, croc or viper up close is very cool. The Rock and Roar concert series entertains every other Tuesday at 11am during the summer. For an extra $5, take a camel ride or a paddle on a swan boat along Bird Lake.

Contact number: (215) 243-1100

Location: 3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Learn more here.