Enjoy 2 Admission Passes to the Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo!  Founded in 1859, the Philadelphia Zoo opened to the public in 1874 with a collection of exotic animals, plants, and exhibit facilities that together created a Victorian ambiance, which still characterizes the 42 acre site.  The Zoo's core purpose is to advance discovery, understanding and stewardship of the natural world through the exhibition and interpretation of living animals and plants, and the natural garden setting provides a unique context in which to present compelling messages that promote of caring and responsible attitude toward all living things, and inspires learning and action beyond Zoo gates.  Ranked as one of the top five zoos nationally in attendance and membership, the Zoo hosts 1.1 Million visitors every year, and boats a membership base of more than 70,000 families from all social and economic backgrounds.  As a result, the Philadelphia Zoo has a diverse audience with whom it can share its mission of conservation, science, education, and recreation.