Philadelphia Zoo Unveils 2026 “Key to the Zoo” Insider Tours — Go Behind the Scenes This Winter!

Philadelphia animal lovers are in for a wild winter treat! The Philadelphia Zoo has announced brand-new dates for its 2026 Key to the Zoo Behind-the-Scenes Tours, taking place this January and February. After selling out last year, this one-of-a-kind program is back — bigger, longer, and even more exclusive than before.

These special three-hour tours invite guests to go beyond the exhibits and explore hidden corners of America’s first zoo. Led by a member of the Zoo’s Conservation Education team, each tour includes at least four behind-the-scenes experiences, where attendees can meet the animals up close and learn directly from their keepers. Each experience is unique, offering opportunities to ask questions, discover animal personalities, and hear inspiring conservation stories straight from the source.

Select sessions even feature a meet-and-greet with the Zoo’s world-famous baby Galapagos tortoises, the offspring of the Zoo’s beloved century-old residents, Mommy (97) and Abrazzo (96). These intimate Saturday morning encounters are sure to be a highlight for animal enthusiasts of all ages.

Tours include complimentary parking, general admission for the day, an exclusive visit to The Solitude Mansion, and a special gift from one of the Zoo’s animals — a keepsake as memorable as the experience itself.

Dates are available on January 18 and 24, and February 1, 7, 15, and 21, with both morning (9:30 AM–12:30 PM) and afternoon (12:30 PM–3:30 PM) sessions. Tickets are $500 per person, or $600 for Saturday morning sessions featuring the tortoise meet-and-greet. Reservations are limited to six guests per tour and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.

“All ticket sales support the Zoo’s mission to create transformative experiences, connect people with wildlife, and inspire a passion for conservation,” says Dani Hogan, Director of Mission Integration at the Philadelphia Zoo. “It’s an awesome opportunity for anyone who loves animals and wants to create unforgettable memories.”

Don’t miss your chance to unlock the Key to the Zoo and discover what goes on behind the gates of this Philly landmark. To learn more or reserve your spot, visit philadelphiazoo.org/.