Behind the Scenes for the ADOPT Program Frequently Asked Questions

Which adopted animals are available for behind the scenes visits?

  • The following adoptable animals are available for behind the scenes visits:

    • Alligator

    • Amur tiger

    • Giraffe

    • Hippos

    • Jaguar

  • Okapi

  • Penguin

  • Rainforest birds of the McNeil Avian Center

  • Tortoise

  • White rhinoceros

  • If you adopt an animal that has a behind the scenes tour, your tour must be with your animal. For instance, if you adopt a giraffe, your behind the scenes opportunity will be with the giraffes.

  • If your adopted animal does not have a behind the scenes experience, you can choose an experience from the list above. For instance, if you adopt a cheetah, you may choose to visit the giraffes.

Will our group be the only one on this tour?

  • We try to make this a private experience, but it is not guaranteed. Weekends and holidays tend to see a higher volume.

When can I come for my tour?

  • Tours are given at specific times on specific days per animal and booked at least 48 hours in advance by calling 215-ADOPT ME, 215-236-7863 or by emailing adopt@phillyzoo.org.

  • Tours are available on a first come, first served basis.

What if it rains?

  • Many animal experiences are available rain or shine, but some tours may need to be rescheduled in case of inclement weather. Should a tour need to be rescheduled the Philadelphia Zoo will contact you in advance.

What is included in my package?

  • Benefits and experiences vary by donation level. Visit Adopt Benefits to view specific benefit levels.

  • Packages do not include parking or admission.

    • If you're not already a member, a Zoo membership will cover both!

Can I buy this for a gift?

  • Yes.

Are there any age restrictions?

  • Age restrictions are as follows:

    • Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by one (1) adult whose behind the scenes tour is complimentary on behalf of the Zoo.

    • Guests muse be 5 years or older to participate in a behind the scenes tour of the following:

      • Alligator

      • Jaguar

  • Penguin

  • Rhino

  • Tiger

  • Guests must be 6 years or older to participate in a behind the scenes tour of the following:

    • Galapagos tortiose

  • All guests regardless of age are welcome to join us on the following tours:

    • Giraffe

    • Hippo

    • Okapi

    • Rainforest birds of the McNeil Avian Center

Are the exhibits handicap accessible?

  • The hippo, okapi, and McNeil Avian Center experiences are able to accommodate visitors who need assistance with mobility, but we do encourage you to contact the Zoo to confirm that we are able to provide the best possible experiences to everyone in your group.

How many people can I bring with me?

  • Our behind the scenes tours are priced per person. Additional guests can be accommodated for $150/person for one tour, or $450/person for 3 tour experiences ($450 level).

  • Most behind the scenes areas can accommodate up to six people. The penguin and alligator experiences can accommodate up to four.

What is the policy regarding groups?

  • Groups are welcome to adopt, but please note that the cost for a behind the scenes experience remains $150 per person and only 6 people at a time may participate in a tour at once. All scheduling is pending animal and keeper availability.

What should I bring?

  • We strongly recommend the following dress guidelines for your visit:

    • Comfortable, closed toed shoes.

    • Clothes that you don't mind getting a little dirty (we are going behind the scenes after all!)