Check in with Choice Hotels and check out the Philadelphia Zoo

Don't miss an excursion to the Philadelphia Zoo, the first of its kind in the United States. Opening its gates more than 100 years ago, this Pennsylvania sanctuary now boasts more than 1,300 animals and hosts more than 1.2 million annual visitors. Accessible year-round, you'll find family-friendly special events, amazing animal education programs, and a variety of rare and endangered species.

Get up-close with the animals when you participate in the zoo's daily activities. Check out the red pandas and giant otters at lunchtime, feed your favorite barnyard animals at the Children's Zoo or observe the nocturnal bats as they suck up their favorite meal. Watch the crocodiles and alligators chomp their lunch at the Reptile and Amphibian House, or find out answers to all those beary important questions when you meet the Bear Country zookeepers.

Covering more than 42 acres, the Philadelphia Zoo is filled with more than a dozen animal habitats where you'll find your favorite four-legged friends, flying creatures and carnivorous critters. Hang around at Monkey Junction, where Colombian black spider monkeys swing and leap 20 feet over your head. Stop by African Outpost during your stay and catch an impressive view of the zoo's safari collection.

Make your Philadelphia, PA lodging reservations with Choice Hotels®, where you'll find hotels that offer business centers, fitness facilities, free wireless high-speed Internet access and free continental breakfast at many locations. When you're off to Pennsylvania, book a room on choicehotels.com to find an assortment of lodging options close to all the best the Keystone State offers.