Boo at the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo returns to the Philadelphia Zoo for three weekends this October: October 17-18, 24-25, and October 31-November 1, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It's the Zoo's annual Halloween event, and the whole campus turns into a trick-or-treat route for guests to walk through. The Zoo goes all-in on the season: the Pherris Wheel gives you ten-story views over a canopy of 1,500 trees at the height of their autumn color, and more than two dozen Home Depot skeletons are scattered across the grounds. The animals get in on it too, with pumpkin-feeding enrichment for many species and seasonal treats served at the on-site stands.

There's a few things to do beyond the trick-or-treating. The Zoo's historic Tree House, built in 1876, has been converted into the Trick-or-Tree House, where you can pick up a tarot card reading. Costume contests run daily at 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM at Impala Lawn, so if you're bringing the family in costume, those are the times to keep in mind.

This year brings a few new additions. Cryptic Creatures is a collection of insects, snakes and stories tied to legends like the Jersey Devil. There's also the SEPTA PZ 'Boo' Choo Train, fall wildlife morning tours, and the Teal Pumpkin Project. If you're planning to dress up, keep in mind that costumes with toy guns or weapons and adult masks are prohibited.

Admission is included with general admission or membership, so if you're already a member, you're set. For those who aren't, ACCESS tickets are $8, limited to 1,000 per day and available for purchase in advance. The Zoo is at 3400 W. Girard Ave, and the event runs 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on those three weekends.