How much time will we need?

We are taking our two children,ages 10 and three, to the Philly zoo next week. The place looks huge, so I was wondering how much time it usually takes to go through the zoo? It is supposed to be quite hot, but we plan to see all the exhibits. Thanks for the help!

How much time will we need?

Honestly, it depends on how long you spend at a typical exhibit and if you plan to ride the zooballoon or the swan boats (with a 3 year old probably not)..

In general, a visit takes me 2-3 hours (I%26#39;m a member) but I have seen a lot before so some stuff I pass by or just peek in to see whats up (the reptile house for example).

If you stop at all the exhibits, read all the signs, etc, plan for 5-6 hours plus breaks. Make sure you don%26#39;t miss the bird house (people seem to forget its there).

I haven%26#39;t seen Big Cat Falls yet but it looks awesome (odd work hours, this is the first summer I have not made at least 2 trips), and if the polar bears are active in the pool kids often like to stay there for a bit.

The younger one might like the bunny village in the Children%26#39;s zoo as well.

Items to do that may cost extra (seems to vary year to year): The Australian birds exhibit and the tree house if its still around (I%26#39;m a little big for it)

How much time will we need?

Thanks for the help. I will plan all day for the zoo trip. I don%26#39;t think we will do those swan boats, unless my older daughter goes with my hubby. I am deathly afraid of heights so I won%26#39;t do the zooballoon!

Is that balloon tethered or is it an actual balloon ride?

The zooballoon is tethered - goes up a couple of hundred feet on a cable then is pulled back down. Nice view of the river and city.

The zoo is not necessarily huge, just has a lot to see.

The balloon sounds like fun, but I am terrifed of heights. Maybe the hubby will try?...