Erie Zoo
Discover diverse animals and lush botanical gardens at the Erie Zoo, a charming and accessible destination for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active, fewer crowds
Erie Zoo
Best Time
Animals are active, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse animals and lush botanical gardens at the Erie Zoo, a charming and accessible destination for all ages.
"A lovely little zoo with a nice variety of animals and updated displays, perfect for a few hours of exploration."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active by arriving right when the zoo opens.
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Admission is reasonable, but confirm current erie zoo ticket prices and any extra costs for rides.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Rhinos
Rhino Enclosure
Witness these powerful creatures in their habitat. Keep an eye out for their playful, territorial moments!
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Orangutan Birthday Celebrations
Orangutan Habitat
Celebrate Dasa the orangutan's special day with fun enrichment activities. A heartwarming experience for all ages.
Glow Wild Lantern Festival
Throughout the Zoo
Experience the zoo transformed by magical Chinese lanterns after dark. A dazzling spectacle of light and wonder.
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Botanical Gardens & Greenhouse
Designated Garden Areas
Explore a vibrant collection of over 600 plant species from around the world. A peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Animal Sightings
Beyond the Animals: More to Explore
Don't miss the children's playground and, seasonally, an ice-skating rink. Consider a membership for frequent visits and discounts. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active by arriving right when the zoo opens.
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Admission is reasonable, but confirm current erie zoo ticket prices and any extra costs for rides.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the zoo and gardens.
📸 Capture Memorable Moments
The Erie Zoo offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during events like Glow Wild.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active by arriving right when the zoo opens.
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Admission is reasonable, but confirm current erie zoo ticket prices and any extra costs for rides.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the zoo and gardens.
📸 Capture Memorable Moments
The Erie Zoo offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during events like Glow Wild.
💡 Look for Keeper Talks
Enhance your visit by attending scheduled talks for insights into animal behavior and care.
🌳 Explore the Botanical Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful botanical gardens and greenhouse, a serene addition to the zoo experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Erie Zoo for its manageable size, naturalistic habitats, and beautiful botanical gardens, making it a pleasant and accessible outing. While some note it's a smaller zoo with fewer animals than larger institutions, the overall experience is frequently described as fun and worthwhile, especially for families and those seeking a relaxed visit. The Glow Wild lantern festival is a standout seasonal attraction.
"A fairly small zoo and not a lot of animals presented. But I can say that the natural aesthetic feel and the habitats were great, some small but the natural feel of their habitats were well thought out and as well as all the pathways. Probably the smallest gift shop I have seen in a zoo but still had decent items. Would recommend if you only wanted to spend about an hour at a zoo."
Captain “Dad” Jackson
"This was so fun. it was $12 to get in and if you want to ride the train or the merry go round you have to pay and extra $4 each but you don't have to do them. The whole zoo is just big enough to walk and explore in about 3 hours and there is a playground for kids too. Perfect size zoo!"
Erica Jensen
"So most of you won't believe this but at the age of 58 this is my First time at a Zoo and We couldn't have picked a better one. My wife and I were in Erie for the day looking for something to do and she said, Let's check out the Zoo!! So glad we did! Admission was reasonable, it was easy walking and plenty of places to sit down! Seeing the animals was awesome! We loved it! So glad we visited!!"
Lee Cross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Erie Zoo is located at 428 W 38th St, Erie, PA 16508. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is typically available on-site.
Information on public transportation routes to the Erie Zoo can be found on the local transit authority's website. It's always a good idea to check schedules in advance.
The travel time to the Erie Zoo from downtown Erie is usually quite short, often under 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Yes, the Erie Zoo provides parking facilities for visitors. It's generally ample, but can fill up during peak times or special events.
Absolutely! Using GPS with the address '428 W 38th St, Erie, PA 16508' or searching for 'Erie Zoo' will guide you directly to the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Erie Zoo is generally affordable. While specific erie zoo ticket prices can vary, expect them to be around $12 per person. Rides like the train or carousel are an additional cost.
Yes, the Erie Zoo offers membership options, including family memberships, which can be a great value for frequent visitors. Check their website for current erie zoo membership costs and benefits.
Erie Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Erie Zoo website for the most up-to-date erie zoo hours before your visit.
While not always explicitly stated, it's often possible to purchase tickets in advance online through the Erie Zoo's official website or affiliated ticketing platforms to save time.
Keep an eye out for potential erie zoo discount tickets or coupons, especially during special events or through local partnerships. Membership also offers savings for repeat visits.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The Erie Zoo houses a variety of animals, including kangaroos, giraffes, gorillas, and more. While it's a smaller zoo, it offers a good selection for a few hours of exploration.
Yes, the Erie Zoo features a children's playground, making it a fun destination for families with younger kids.
Glow Wild is a special Chinese Lantern Festival held at the Erie Zoo, transforming the grounds with illuminated animal displays after dark. It's a popular seasonal event.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the Erie Zoo and its botanical gardens comfortably.
The Erie Zoo typically offers concessions and snack stands. For a wider variety, consider dining at restaurants near the Erie Zoo before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Erie Zoo offers many picturesque spots, from animal enclosures to the botanical gardens. The Glow Wild festival provides particularly stunning nighttime photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the Erie Zoo administration to inquire about their specific policies and any required permits.
While most areas are fine for photos, avoid using flash directly at animals as it can disturb them. Always be mindful of other visitors and follow zoo staff instructions.
Visitors often share photos of the animals, the beautiful botanical displays, and the magical lanterns during Glow Wild.
You can find a wealth of Erie Zoo photos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok by searching relevant hashtags, or on travel blogs and review sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to check for special events like Erie Zoo Boo or the Glow Wild Lantern Festival, which offer unique family fun. Bringing snacks and drinks is usually permitted, and there are plenty of benches for resting. The zoo's accessible pathways also make it easy to navigate with strollers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider purchasing an erie zoo membership if you plan to visit multiple times a year; the cost can quickly be offset by the savings on admission. Look for any available erie zoo discount tickets or coupons. Visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays can also contribute to a more budget-friendly experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early morning light often offers the best conditions for animal photography, with softer shadows and more active subjects. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to get unique shots. The Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a diverse range of subjects, from close-ups of wildlife to sweeping landscapes of the plant collections. Remember to be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash directly at them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Erie Zoo's Diverse Habitats
Beyond the animal exhibits, the Erie Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers a lush escape. The botanical gardens feature over 600 species of plants, providing a beautiful and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The greenhouse is a particular highlight, showcasing a diverse range of flora. This blend of zoological and botanical attractions makes the Erie Zoo a unique destination.
For families, the inclusion of a children's playground ensures that younger visitors have ample opportunities for fun and active play. During certain seasons, the zoo also offers an ice-skating rink, adding another layer of seasonal entertainment. These amenities underscore the zoo's commitment to providing a comprehensive family-friendly experience.
The Magic of Glow Wild: A Seasonal Spectacle
This event draws significant crowds and offers a unique perspective on the zoo after dark. The vibrant displays create a magical atmosphere, perfect for evening strolls and memorable photos. Visitors attending Glow Wild can expect more than just visual splendor. The festival often includes live cultural performances, adding an educational and entertaining dimension to the experience. It's a chance to see the zoo in a completely different light, quite literally, and appreciate the artistry involved in the lantern creations.
Due to its popularity, it's recommended to purchase Glow Wild tickets in advance. The event typically runs on select evenings, often Thursday through Sunday, from late spring into early summer. Checking the Erie Zoo's official schedule for exact dates and times is crucial for planning your visit to this spectacular event.
Erie Zoo Membership Benefits
Beyond free admission, zoo membership Erie PA holders may also receive reciprocal benefits at other zoos and aquariums across the country, expanding travel opportunities. Additional perks can include discounts on gift shop purchases, special event tickets (like Glow Wild), and sometimes even exclusive member-only events or early access.
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