PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia Zoo is leaning into romance this February, unveiling a slate of Valentine’s Day and winter experiences that blend skyline views, close-up animal encounters, and hands-on activities designed to turn a zoo visit into a date night — or weekend — with a twist.
The Zoo is rolling out its first-ever Valentine’s Day Weekend Date Package, special animal enrichment experiences, cupcake decorating, discounted behind-the-scenes tours, and romantic rides aboard the new 110-foot Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel. The limited-time offerings run throughout February, with several experiences concentrated over Valentine’s Day weekend.
Couples, friends, and families visiting Saturday and Sunday of Valentine’s Day weekend can purchase the new Date Package, which includes two Zoo admission tickets, two adult drinks, a meet-and-greet with an ambassador animal, and a takeaway gift created by one of the Zoo’s residents. The animal encounters are scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in KidZooU South Classroom and are expected to sell out due to limited availability.
Valentine’s Day weekend will also feature themed animal enrichment activities throughout the Zoo, giving visitors a chance to see animals interact with special treats and stimuli designed to encourage both physical activity and mental engagement.
On Valentine’s Day itself, guests can take part in cupcake decorating at Tiger Terrace, where each ticket includes one large cupcake, icing, and a selection of toppings. The activity runs from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and is designed as a hands-on, family-friendly way to mark the holiday.
Every weekend in February, visitors can take a ride on the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, a new attraction offering sweeping views of the Zoo grounds, the Philadelphia skyline, the Schuylkill River, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Each gondola accommodates up to six riders, with rides lasting about seven minutes. The wheel is located near the Zoo’s main entrance and operates during weekend Zoo hours.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Zoo is offering 20 percent off all behind-the-scenes encounters throughout February. These experiences allow guests to meet animals such as the Galapagos tortoise Mommy, hedgehogs Sam and Dean, and Tony the rhinoceros, among others. Discounts are applied at checkout, with additional savings available for group bookings.
Visitors can also mark Valentine’s Day by adopting an animal through the Zoo’s adoption program, which supports care for the Zoo’s roughly 1,900 animals. Adoption packages include a certificate and, at higher levels, a Valentine-themed plush toy, with deadlines in early February to ensure delivery by the holiday.
“Those with real insider knowledge know that winter is one of the best times to visit Philadelphia Zoo,” said Patrick McMaster, vice president of marketing and communications. He said guests can warm up inside indoor exhibits or embrace the cold by watching animals like Amur tigers and red pandas thrive in winter conditions, while special February experiences help create lasting memories and support wildlife conservation.
Full details, pricing, and ticket information for all Valentine’s Day and February experiences are available at philadelphiazoo.org/news/valentines-day-deals/.
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