Illustration of a trick or treat scene (Boo at the Zoo)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

Boo at the Zoo

Visitors can trick-or-treat throughout the zoo and explore the Trick-or-Tree House for creepy-crawly decorations, extra candy stations, and tarot card readings. Animal habitats showcase seasonal enrichment and scheduled pumpkin feedings for bears, big cats, hippos, and reptiles. Guests can also view displays of giant skeletons, enter daily costume contests, and ride the Halloween-decorated SEPTA PZ Boo Choo train.

Oct 3 – Nov 1, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Boo at the Zoo is included with Zoo admission or membership. ACCESS tickets are $8 and limited to 1,000 per day.

Hours

9:30 AM - 5:00 PM.

Neighborhood

Fairmount Park

Accessibility

Accessible parking spots and spaces for vans are available in the Tiger Lot and the Parking Garage.

Location

Philadelphia Zoo · 3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Playful and spooky

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Costumes with adult masks or toy guns and weapons are strictly prohibited.
  • Remember to bring your own trick-or-treat bag to collect candy around the Zoo.
  • Zoo members can take advantage of exclusive morning strolls for early access on select days.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Zoo members get early access during exclusive morning strolls on October 17 and October 25.
  • Boo at the Zoo Anytime Tickets offer savings of up to 25% through October 2.
  • New this year: Home Depot’s 12-foot and 5-foot skeletons are visiting the Zoo for the first time.

Links & Contact

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boo at the Zoo included with regular zoo admission?

Yes, Boo at the Zoo is included with general admission and zoo memberships.

What costume guidelines are in place?

Visitors of all ages are welcome to wear costumes, but adult masks and costumes featuring toy guns or weapons are prohibited.

What happens during the costume contests?

Costume contests take place at Impala Lawn, where zoo staff judge costumes and present prizes to first-, second-, and third-place winners alongside carnival games.

What special activities take place in the Trick-or-Tree House?

Located in the historic 1876 Tree House, the attraction offers spooky decorations, an extra candy station, and tarot card readings.

What animal programs are featured during the event?

Guests can observe scheduled pumpkin feedings for various animals, view seasonal habitat decorations, and attend presentations on misunderstood animals and legends in the Small Mammal House.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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