LumiNature FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About LumiNature
What is LumiNature presented by PNC?
LumiNature presented by PNC is Philadelphia Zoo’s nature-inspired light show, returning for another holiday season of whimsical wildlife scenes come to light. Experience dazzling displays featuring your favorite creatures, play and dance with roaming animal characters, indulge in festive holiday fare, and more. All visits support animal conservation around the world!
How do I get tickets?
Timed tickets are now on sale! All guests must pre-purchase timed tickets here. Timed tickets allow the Zoo to control crowds and create a better experience for all guests. Prices vary by visit date.
When can I visit?
LumiNature opens Thursday, November 20 and is open most nights through Saturday, January 3. LumiNature is a nighttime experience with timed entrance tickets available every 15 minutes from 5:00 to 7:15 pm and closes at 9:00 pm. Please refer to the calendar on the ticketing page for more information on operating nights.
What will I see at LumiNature presented by PNC?
Around every corner of the Zoo during LumiNature, whimsical wildlife scenes come to light to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Experience dazzling displays featuring your favorite creatures, play and dance with roaming animal characters, indulge in festive holiday fare, and have a wild time.
Will I see the Zoo's animals during LumiNature presented by PNC?
While this whimsical and fantastical adventure will inspire a sense of wonder and connection to your favorite animals, please note that the Zoo’s animals will be off of public view and sleeping in their indoor habitats.
Will I see Santa at LumiNature presented by PNC?
Yes! At The Lodge, enjoy this cozy indoor space with the chance to say hello to the big man himself. Santa invites you to join in his holiday party. Grab a drink, shop for gifts, or enjoy making some s’mores and relaxing in our outdoor lounge.
What is the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel?
The Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel is a 110 feet tall observation wheel with breathtaking scenes of the Zoo, city skyline, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia Art Museum, Boat House Row and beyond. This is the first time in the Zoo’s 150+ year history that a Ferris wheel has been a part of the Zoo experience
How can guests ride the Pherris Wheel?
Guests will be able to purchase tickets to the Pherris Wheel online or onsite during their visit. Zoo members receive a discount.
Can guests ride the Pherris Wheel without at Zoo Ticket?
Yes, guest will be able to ride the Pherris wheel without an admission ticket to the Zoo.
Who can ride the Pherris Wheel?
Guests must be at least at least 32" tall to ride with a supervising adult. Each gondola can fit up to six guests and the ride lasts about seven minutes.
When can guests ride the Pherris Wheel?
The Pherris wheel is open during both LumiNature nighttime hours and Zoo daytime hours, weather permitting.
Where is the Pherris wheel?
The Pherris wheel is located near the Zoo’s Main Entrance at 34th Street and Girard Ave on the site that was previously the 6abc Zoo Balloon.
Why did the Zoo get a Ferris Wheel?
The Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel kicks off this holiday season in conjunction with LumiNature, the Zoo’s nature-inspired, nighttime, winter light show. The Pherris wheel is a part of the hundreds of events celebrating America's 250th anniversary in Philadelphia throughout 2026. The yearlong celebration encompasses major sporting events alongside cultural exhibitions and community programs that honor Philadelphia's role as the birthplace of American democracy.
The Zoo is leasing the 12 story Ferris wheel from Ride Worx, which provides experiences for the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
The Zoo is leasing the 12 story Ferris wheel from Ride Worx, which provides experiences for the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.