Elmwood Park Zoo entrance on a sunny summer day in Norristown Pennsylvania
Craig's Favorite — Family Attraction

Elmwood Park Zoo

A beloved Montgomery County institution and one of Craig's top recommendations for families living in or moving to Southeastern Pennsylvania. Located just minutes from Jenkintown and easily accessible from anywhere in the Philly suburbs, Elmwood Park Zoo offers world-class animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and family programming — all at a price that won't break the bank.

Address
1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA 19401
Hours
Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter hours may vary)
Photos
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Craig's Take

Why Elmwood Park Zoo Is a Must-Visit

After decades of living in Montgomery County, Craig recommends Elmwood Park Zoo to every family considering a move to the area. Here's why.

Affordable Family Fun

Montgomery County residents receive half-price admission with proof of residency. SEPTA Key card holders save $2 off regular admission.

16 Acres of Nature

Home to over 100 species of animals including bald eagles, jaguars, red pandas, giraffes, zebras, bison, and river otters.

Giraffe Feeding Experience

Get up close and personal with the zoo's resident giraffes during the interactive feeding experience — a hit with kids and adults alike.

Elmwood Encounters

Book animal encounters including the Hedgehog Hangout and other up-close experiences with the zoo's resident animals.

Seasonal Events

Year-round programming includes Wild Lights in winter, Boo at the Zoo in fall, Trick-or-Treat Nights, and summer camps.

Who You'll Meet

Animals at Elmwood Park Zoo

Bald Eagles

Majestic symbols of American wildlife soar in the zoo's raptor habitat.

Jaguars

The Trail of the Jaguar exhibit showcases these powerful big cats in a naturalistic setting.

Red Pandas

Adorable and charismatic, the red pandas are among the zoo's most beloved residents.

Giraffes

Towering and gentle, the giraffe exhibit offers the signature feeding experience.

River Otters

Playful and energetic, these aquatic mammals delight visitors with their antics.

Zebras

Part of the Grasslands exhibit alongside bison and other savanna species.

Good to Know

Planning Your Visit

Admission Deals

  • Montgomery County residents: Half-price admission with proof of residency
  • SEPTA Key holders: $2 off regular admission
  • Active duty military: Free admission
  • Veterans & companions: $10.95 admission
  • SNAP/ACCESS recipients: $10 per person (in-person only, limit 6)

Craig's Tips

  • Arrive early — the giraffe feeding is most popular and lines grow quickly by midday
  • Weekday mornings are the most relaxed time to visit with young kids
  • The zoo is dog-friendly — bring your four-legged family members along
  • Check the events calendar for seasonal programming like Wild Lights and Boo at the Zoo
Getting There

Located in Norristown, Montgomery County

Elmwood Park Zoo sits at 1661 Harding Blvd in Norristown, PA — right in the heart of Montgomery County. It's easily accessible from Jenkintown, Abington, Blue Bell, Ambler, and surrounding communities. For families considering a move to the Philadelphia suburbs, the zoo is one of those community anchors that makes the area feel like home.

Free parking available on-site
Accessible via SEPTA bus routes from the Norristown Transportation Center
10 minutes from Jenkintown, 20 minutes from Center City Philadelphia
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Make Montgomery County Your Home

Places like Elmwood Park Zoo are what make Southeastern Pennsylvania special. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or explore your next move, Craig Lerch brings 35+ years of experience and over 4,000 transactions to help you find the right community — and the right home.