How Philadelphia became the home of America’s first zoo

Did you know that the Philadelphia Zoo is actually the nation’s first? “It’s so ubiquitous today,” said Dani Hogan, director of mission integration at the Philadelphia Zoo. “Finally, on July 1st, 1874 — 15 years after the charter was signed — the Philadelphia Zoo opens its gates to 3,000 visitors,” Salusky said. This Saturday, the Philadelphia Zoo is throwing a “Firstival” party to celebrate its status as the first zoo in the United States. “It’s kind of like a nice Saturday block party, but here at the Philadelphia Zoo.”