The Philadelphia Zoo: More Wrinkles Than Your Grandpa's Shirt (But Way Cuter)
Ever wondered how old the Philadelphia Zoo is? Well, buckle up, my friends, because we're about to embark on a journey through time, with way fewer dinosaurs and a whole lot more adorable animal encounters.
America's OG Zoo: Founded Before Your Great-Great-Grandpa's Mustache Wax
That's right, folks! The Philadelphia Zoo isn't just some place to see a bunch of lions napping (although, let's be honest, that's pretty entertaining). It's a historical landmark, having cracked open its doors (or, should we say, gates) on July 1st, 1874. We're talking about an era where telephones were a novelty and the coolest gadget around was probably a fancy hat.
Hold on a Sec, Wasn't There a Civil War in There Somewhere?
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Sharp eye, you! You see, the zoo was actually chartered in 1859, but thanks to a little disagreement between some states (you might have heard of it, the Civil War), the grand opening got put on hold for a bit. But hey, better late than never, right?
So, How Old is this Grandaddy of Zoos?
Let's do some quick math (don't worry, it's easier than those times tables that had you stumped in grade school). As of today, July 2nd, 2024, the Philadelphia Zoo is a whopping 150 years old! That's a century and a half of providing a home for amazing creatures, educating folks about the animal kingdom, and probably inspiring countless "wild" birthday parties.
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
Fun Fact: They Probably Didn't Have Selfies Back Then
Just imagine trying to explain the concept of a selfie stick to a zoo visitor in 1874. "You mean you hold this long thing out and...capture your own likeness with the animal? But wouldn't that scare the poor creature?" The mind boggles.
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| How Old Is The Philadelphia Zoo |
How to Zoo Like a Pro: Frequently Asked Questions
Alright, alright, enough with the history lesson (although, wasn't it fascinating?). Now you're probably itching to visit this historic zoo and snap a selfie (responsibly, of course) with your favorite animal. But before you head out, here are some quick answers to your burning zoo-related questions:
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How to Get There? The Philadelphia Zoo is located in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Public transportation and parking options are plentiful, so you won't have to resort to riding a horse and carriage like they did in the olden days.
How Much Does it Cost? Check the zoo's website for current admission prices. But hey, it's definitely cheaper than a time machine to visit the zoo in 1874 (although that would be pretty cool).
How to Dress? Comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Beyond that, dress for the weather and remember, showcasing your amazing outfit is less important than marveling at the animals.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
How to Act? Be respectful of the animals and their space. Follow zoo guidelines and remember, throwing peanuts at the monkeys is a big no-no (unless they're specifically trained for it, which they probably aren't).
How to Have Fun? Relax, explore the exhibits, and enjoy the opportunity to see incredible creatures up close. The Philadelphia Zoo offers a variety of programs and events, so there's something for everyone.
So there you have it! Now you're armed with the knowledge of the Philadelphia Zoo's impressive age and some tips to make your visit a roaring success (or should we say, a fliptastic one, depending on which animal steals your heart).
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