PHILADELPHIA, PA — Spring 2025 will bring a vibrant transformation to the Philadelphia Zoo as it reinvents its historic gardens and introduces innovative exhibits designed to inspire and educate visitors. Through a strategic partnership with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) and the debut of the ZOOtopiaries exhibit, the Zoo continues its mission to connect people with nature and conservation.
The collaborative effort with PHS aims to reimagine the Zoo’s 42-acre grounds by redesigning four key garden areas, each brimming with plants designed to captivate the senses and support ecological diversity. The redesign includes pollinator-friendly plant species, shaded gathering areas, and colorful multi-season blooms, ensuring an elevated guest experience throughout the year. By fall, the initiative will involve 8,150 square feet of new plantings, featuring 78 plant species.
PHS President Matt Rader emphasized the importance of the collaboration, saying, “Philadelphia Zoo is a leading conservation and education organization, making this partnership a natural fit. We look forward to sharing our expertise in horticulture to enhance the Zoo’s campus while aligning with our shared mission for community enrichment.”
Complementing the garden refresh is the April debut of ZOOtopiaries: Nature’s Sculptures, an exclusive living art installation by Santoline Mosaïculture. This exhibit features five massive topiary creations, including a 21-foot giraffe, a preening peacock, and whimsical butterflies, crafted from 22 plant species. Each sculpture celebrates the interplay between art, nature, and wildlife. “At Santoline Mosaiculture, we aim to highlight biodiversity through our creations,” said Sébastien Patenaude-Francoeur, the company’s Vice President.
The Zoo’s President and CEO, Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman, underscored the broader goal of these initiatives. “Philadelphia Zoo is a destination where we invite all our guests to connect with all living things, not just the 1,900 animals in our care. These enhanced gardens and new ZOOtopiaries exhibits are designed to spark curiosity about how we can all contribute to a healthier planet.”
Additionally, visitors can explore Wildlife Rescue by Little Ray’s Exhibitions, a popular conservation-focused exhibit already in place through September. Featuring 13 interactive animal statues, including the Atlantic sturgeon, red panda, and snow leopard, the exhibit shares compelling stories about wildlife preservation efforts.
These initiatives, included with standard admission, promise to make 2025 an unforgettable year at the Philadelphia Zoo, solidifying its role as a leader in both conservation and guest engagement.
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