Elmwood Park Zoo
Explore the wild side of Montco at Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown. While journeying through the lush attraction, meet dozens of animals, from mammals to reptiles, and catch a show at the theater or a ride on the animal-themed carousel. Then, fuel up at a food stand before tackling the ropes course with your family and friends.
A trip to the Elmwood Park Zoo is a must during any visit to Valley Forge and Montco. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate zoo experience.
Meet the Animals
At Elmwood Park Zoo, you can get up close to some of the most majestic creatures on the planet, making for an unforgettable experience for everyone in the family.
Near the main entrance, meet the resident giraffes, and if you’re there during feeding time, grab a few lettuce leaves provided by the zoo and offer them to the giraffes. Walk further into the tree-topped park and pet farm animals in a yard outside the zoo’s historic barn. Next, encounter the jaguar exhibit before visiting the Wildlife Lodge, where several reptiles and amphibians live.
With hundreds of animals roaming the 16-acre (and growing) zoo, including an American bison, a jaguar, alligators, and owls, Elmwood Park Zoo is a chance to connect with wildlife and loved ones.
Learn & Explore
Owned and operated by Norristown Zoological Society, a nonprofit, Elmwood Park Zoo, founded in 1924, is dedicated to animal conservation. Learn more about the zoo residents and conservation efforts on your visit through various fun and educational programs.
The Junior Inspector Program, for instance, offers families an interactive zoo experience filled with games and activities scattered throughout the park. Other educational opportunities include daily animal shows held at the Zoo Bowl Theater and special programs that grant guests exclusive behind-the-scenes zoo access.
Elmwood Zoo is just as dedicated to inclusivity and allowing everyone a chance to enjoy the animals and attractions. The zoo offers activities and programs that cater to guests with autism (the zoo is a Certified Autism Center), as well as guests who are blind, have limited mobility, or need assistance from a service dog.
Other Wild Attractions & Amenities
Beyond the zoo animals, there are various attractions, food and drink spots, and accessibility features both kids and adults will enjoy.
Try an obstacle course and go zip lining over animal exhibits at Treetop Adventures, located inside the zoo. Younger kids will love the zoo’s animal-themed carousel, butterfly train ride, playground, and percussion garden featuring musical instruments.
Peppered throughout the park are various food vendors. Plenty of seating is available at the picnic grove area. For guests over the age of 21, find a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails at the Zoo Brew Beer Garden & Bar.
Depending on what season you visit, you can attend one of the family-friendly events hosted by the zoo, including the annual holiday celebration Wild Lights. If you'd like to bring your furry family members to the zoo with you, you can! The zoo welcomes pet dogs during special days and events held throughout the year.
Whenever you plan on visiting Montco, make Elmwood Park Zoo a part of your family trip. Although some of the attractions are open on a seasonal basis, the zoo is a year-round destination waiting for you and yours to discover.
