
Brandywine Zoo
A charming, manageable zoo in Brandywine Park, featuring unique animals like lemurs, red pandas, and giant anteaters. Perfect for families!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity

Brandywine Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, manageable zoo in Brandywine Park, featuring unique animals like lemurs, red pandas, and giant anteaters. Perfect for families!
"It's an excellent zoo for smaller children. Very easy walking, basically one path in and same path out."

📚 Library Card = Free Entry!
Use your Delaware library card for free admission to the zoo and state parks. :ticket:
⏰ Check Event Schedules
Look out for 'Keeper Chats' and seasonal events like 'Boo at the Zoo'. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lemur Island Adventure
Lemur Exhibit
Watch these energetic primates leap and play in their naturalistic habitat. A true highlight for all ages!

Giant Anteater Encounter
Anteater Exhibit
Marvel at the unique long snout and impressive claws of the giant anteater, a visitor favorite.

Red Panda Charm
Red Panda Exhibit
These adorable, tree-dwelling mammals are a must-see with their distinctive markings and playful antics.

Petting Zoo Fun
Petting Area
Get up close and personal with friendly goats and other barnyard animals. A hands-on experience for kids!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Charming Visit
Library Card Perks & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Library Card = Free Entry!
Use your Delaware library card for free admission to the zoo and state parks. :ticket:
⏰ Check Event Schedules
Look out for 'Keeper Chats' and seasonal events like 'Boo at the Zoo'. :calendar:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The zoo is easy to navigate, but you'll want comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch! There are great spots for picnics after your zoo visit. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Library Card = Free Entry!
Use your Delaware library card for free admission to the zoo and state parks. :ticket:
⏰ Check Event Schedules
Look out for 'Keeper Chats' and seasonal events like 'Boo at the Zoo'. :calendar:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The zoo is easy to navigate, but you'll want comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch! There are great spots for picnics after your zoo visit. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Moments
The zoo offers great photo ops, especially with the charming animals. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brandywine Zoo for its charm, manageable size, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. It's considered an excellent destination for families with young children, offering a personal and engaging experience. While smaller than many zoos, its well-maintained exhibits and unique animals make it a delightful outing.
"Had a great time visiting the Brandywine Zoo, I'd say a visit would take an hour or two. It is much smaller than most Zoos I've visited but it has no lack of charm. The animals were very lively and the staff was incredibly welcoming. My favorite exhibit would have to be the anteater as I've never been able to see one so close before. I also think having an area dedicated to petting the different goats that also had dedicated staff was an absolutely wonderful touch, I know my family certainly enjoyed it. I think more Zoos could learn a thing or two by the way the Brandywine Zoo is run. What it lacks in size in makes up for with the wonderful staff."
Alekos Mesiouris
"It's an excellent zoo for smaller children. Very easy walking, basically one path in and same path out. Not lots of animals but those they have are interesting. Free parking at the park, and nice place for lunch or picnic after. Playground short drive / walking distance from zoo."
Aaron Resnik
"Me and my wife had taken our grandchildren to Brandywine years ago, we decided to go on our own. The zoo is an amazing little gem snuggled in the Brandywine park area. The zoo is small but it has an amazing collection of smaller animals that in our eyes are just right for little ones. They have a petting area, areas for the kids to explore and a stage for people to sit and watch zoo events. Beautifully maintained in a great setting."
Joe LaMartina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brandywine Zoo is located at 1001 N Park Drive, Wilmington, DE 19802, within Brandywine Park. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available in the park. For those using public transport, check local bus routes that service the area. Amtrak also offers a quick trip to Wilmington.
Yes, there is free parking available at Brandywine Park, which is adjacent to the zoo. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While specific bus routes can vary, Wilmington has public transportation options. Amtrak is also a convenient way to reach Wilmington from nearby cities, with the zoo being a short ride from the station.
The zoo is generally easy to walk, with a main path that is suitable for strollers. It's designed for easy navigation, especially for families with young children.
From I-95 North or South, take Exit 7B for DE-52 N/Delaware Ave. Turn right onto N Park Drive. The zoo will be on your left. Always check GPS for real-time traffic updates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are generally fair and affordable. However, a fantastic tip is that Delaware library card holders can get free admission to the zoo and other state parks! Check the official website for current pricing and any special event ticket requirements.
Yes! If you have a Delaware library card, you can check out a pass for free admission to Brandywine Zoo and other Delaware State Parks. This is a great money-saving tip for locals and visitors alike.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the zoo's website, especially for special events. Some popular events, like 'Boo at the Zoo', may sell out, so advance booking is recommended.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Brandywine Zoo website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
The zoo offers 'Group of 2' and 'Group of 4' ticket options for events, which can be more cost-effective for small parties. For larger groups, it's advisable to contact the zoo directly to inquire about group rates and arrangements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Brandywine Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals including giant anteaters, lemurs, red pandas, binturongs, Andean condors, golden lion tamarins, bobcats, caracals, and various reptiles and birds. They also have a popular petting zoo area with goats.
Absolutely! Brandywine Zoo is an excellent destination for smaller children. Its manageable size, petting zoo, and engaging exhibits make it perfect for little ones. There's also a playground nearby for added fun.
Yes, there's an adorable playground located just a short walk or drive from the main zoo area, often referred to as 'Monkey Hill'. It's a great spot for kids to burn off energy after exploring the animals.
You can get up close with the animals in the petting zoo area, where friendly goats are available for interaction. The zoo also offers 'Keeper Chats' where guests can learn directly from animal care staff.
The zoo is designed with a main path that's easy to follow, making it a straightforward visit. Many visitors find it takes about an hour or two to see everything.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the zoo may have limited concessions, it's a fantastic spot for a picnic. There are beautiful areas within Brandywine Park perfect for enjoying a packed lunch.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged and a great way to save money. Brandywine Park offers scenic spots for dining al fresco.
Wilmington offers a variety of dining experiences. For a quick bite or brunch before or after your zoo visit, consider places like Park Cafe. The area around the zoo also has other park venues that complement a day out.
The zoo itself typically has limited food service. It's best to plan for a picnic or explore nearby dining options in Wilmington.
It's advisable to bring your own water bottles, especially during warmer months. While some facilities may have water fountains, carrying your own ensures you stay hydrated.
📸 📸 Photography
The animal exhibits themselves offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the lemurs and red pandas. The surrounding Brandywine Park also provides beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms often blooming near the zoo parking lot.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Brandywine Zoo. It's a great place to capture memorable moments with the animals and the park's natural beauty.
A camera with good zoom capabilities is helpful for capturing clear shots of the animals from a distance. However, even a smartphone can take great photos, especially with the charming exhibits and scenic park surroundings.
While generally permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly at animals, as it can disturb them. Check for any specific signage at individual exhibits.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light for photography. This is also when animals tend to be more active.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit