Planning a family trip along the East Coast? You'll find some of the best zoos on the East Coast in cities where CityPASS® tickets make exploring multiple attractions simple and affordable. These four destinations offer exceptional zoos that combine conservation efforts, engaging exhibits, and memorable encounters with wildlife from around the world. Each zoo brings its own character to your East Coast adventure, whether you're meeting giant pandas in Atlanta, watching manatees glide through Florida waters, or discovering giraffes in the heart of Boston.
Franklin Park Zoo: Boston's Wildlife Oasis
Nestled in Boston's Emerald Necklace park system is Franklin Park Zoo, one of New England's premier wildlife destinations. The zoo's 72 acres house more than 220 species, giving you the chance to observe animals from tropical rainforests to African savannas without leaving Massachusetts.
From gorillas to giraffes, Franklin Park Zoo showcases diverse exhibits designed to mimic natural habitats. The Tropical Forest pavilion transports you to the rainforests of Central and South America, where pygmy hippos waddle through their pool and tapirs root through the undergrowth. Meanwhile, the Serengeti Crossing exhibit lets you watch zebras, ostriches, and wildebeests roaming together across an African-inspired landscape.
Located mere minutes from downtown Boston, the zoo fits perfectly into a day of sightseeing. You can easily combine your zoo visit with other attractions on your Boston CityPASS® tickets to make the most of your time in the city.
Philadelphia Zoo: America's First Zoo With Modern Appeal
Did you know that the Philadelphia Zoo is America's first zoo? The 42-acre facility, established in 1874, pioneered Zoo360, an innovative trail system that makes it possible for big cats, primates, and other animals to roam above and around visitors in see-through mesh walkways.
This approach gives animals more freedom to move while providing you with unique viewing angles you won't find anywhere else. Watch Amur tigers stroll overhead, observe lemurs scampering along elevated pathways, or spot red pandas navigating their aerial route. The zoo houses over 1,900 animals representing nearly 340 species, from rare Jamaican iguanas to playful river otters.
The zoo's location in the Fairmount Park area places you near several other major Philadelphia attractions. After exploring the animal kingdom, you might head to The Franklin Institute, another stop included with your Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets, where hands-on science exhibits await.
Zoo Atlanta: Southern Conservation Excellence
Zoo Atlanta is celebrated for its 25-year legacy of giant panda conservation. While the zoo's pandas returned to China in 2024 as their loan agreement concluded, Zoo Atlanta continues advancing conservation efforts and remains in discussions about future panda programs. The zoo's dedication to global wildlife protection remains strong across its exhibits.
The African Savanna exhibit immerses you in the world of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and lions, while Gorilla Trek showcases one of the largest populations of western lowland gorillas in any North American zoo. The zoo's collection includes orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and African elephants. Conservation education shines through every exhibit, teaching visitors about endangered species and how to protect them.
The zoo sits within Grant Park, making it an ideal addition to your Atlanta CityPASS® day. You can explore multiple Atlanta attractions efficiently while saving on admission costs.
ZooTampa: Tropical Encounters and Florida Natives
In the Sunshine State, ZooTampa is home to both exotic wildlife and Florida's native species. The manatee rehabilitation center serves as the zoo's crown jewel, where injured and orphaned manatees receive care before returning to the wild. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water offers a peaceful moment in your zoo adventure.
Florida panthers prowl through their habitat in the Primate World section, reminding visitors of the state's most endangered mammal. The zoo's commitment to local wildlife extends throughout its 56 acres, where you'll also encounter clouded leopards, Malayan tigers, and African elephants. Interactive experiences abound, from feeding giraffes to walking through the free-flight aviary where colorful birds might land on your shoulder.
ZooTampa pairs perfectly with The Florida Aquarium, another attraction featured in Tampa CityPASS® tickets. Together, these destinations create a comprehensive tour of wildlife both on land and in the sea.
How To Make the Most of Your Zoo Visit
When choosing a zoo to visit with your family, consider which type of animal encounters matter most to you. If your children dream of meeting giant pandas, Zoo Atlanta delivers that experience. For families interested in marine mammals and Florida wildlife, ZooTampa offers unique regional species. Those fascinated by innovative animal habitats will appreciate Philadelphia Zoo's Zoo360 system, while Boston's Franklin Park Zoo provides convenient access to diverse exhibits near downtown.
The best zoos and aquariums on the East Coast shine during spring and fall, when comfortable temperatures make walking easier and animals often show more activity. Early morning visits typically mean smaller crowds and more engaged animals before the afternoon heat sets in. Many zoos schedule feeding times and keeper talks throughout the day, so check the daily schedule when you arrive to catch these special moments.
Summer brings longer hours and special programs, though you'll want to pack sunscreen and water. Winter visits offer a quieter experience, with many animals adapted to cold weather staying active while tropical species retreat to heated indoor exhibits. Regardless of when you visit, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing will enhance your experience.
Plan Your East Coast Zoo Adventure With CityPASS® Tickets
Each of these exceptional zoos offers something different, yet they all share a commitment to conservation, education, and creating meaningful connections between people and animals. By choosing CityPASS® tickets, you gain admission to these premier wildlife destinations along with other top attractions in each city, saving up to 50% compared to regular ticket prices.