Ready to meet some of the coolest, fluffiest, wildest animals in Pennsylvania—all in one epic road trip?
We’re talking up-close giraffe snacks, alpaca cuddles, safari rides, and even highland cows!
In a lot of these places, you don’t just see the animals, but you get to interact with them, learn their stories, and maybe even leave with a pair of alpaca socks.
There’s a mix of big attractions and smaller cozy spots on this list, and we’re sure there’s something you’ve never heard of (but you’ll want to try out!).
1. Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia
🚨 At the time of writing (May 2025), it seems that the park is undergoing some renovations, with a number of animals not present. We recommend you call up in advance to ask about what’s available if there’s something specific you want to see.
Philadelphia Zoo opened way back in 1874, making it the first zoo in the United States!
Since its opening, it’s become a major attraction and it’s now packed with over 1,900 animals from around the world.
It’s famous for its Zoo360 system, a network of mesh trails that lets monkeys, big cats, and even lemurs roam right above your head while you walk around.
You can also ride a swan boat on the lake, hang out with goats at KidZooU, and say hi to a 5,000-pound hippo in the African Plains exhibit.
If you want a place where you get to see a large variety of different animals, then this is one of the top places in Pennsylvania.
2. Kraussdale Alpacas, East Greenville
Next up, swing by Kraussdale Alpacas in East Greenville, where fluffy faces are the stars of the show.
This family-run spot lets you get up close with real alpacas, feed them snacks, snap silly selfies, and even shop for cozy socks made from their fleece.
Since it’s a small family-run place, you won’t need to spend all day here, but the owner is known to be very friendly and always willing to teach you about the alpacas.
It’s super chill, totally hands-on, and a great way to meet some four-legged friends at a highly-rated place.
3. Happy Tales Farm, East Stroudsburg
Then head north to East Stroudsburg for a visit to Happy Tales Farm, where rescued animals get a second chance—and a whole lot of love.
This sweet little place is home to pigs, goats, mini-highland cows, lambs, and even chickens, all living their best lives thanks to the folks who care for them.
You can cuddle the animals and watch them play, all while learning real stories behind the animals who call this place home.
You can even book them as a mobile petting zoo.
🚨 To visit, you must book in for a scheduled event or book in for an appointment.
4. Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, Halifax
Next up is Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax.
Here you can hop on a safari tour bus and cruise past zebras, bison, and ostriches like you’re in Africa.
This place offers up-close animal encounters, a reptile house, and a petting zoo packed with friendly farm animals like pygmy goats.
Don’t miss the baby animal nursery or the chance to hand-feed a giraffe—yep, their tongues really are that long!
5. Terrace Mountain Alpacas, Huntingdon
Next, make your way to Huntingdon for a visit to Terrace Mountain Alpacas.
This is another family-run, peaceful farm perched on the edge of Raystown Lake with some seriously scenic views.
You can walk among gentle alpacas, learn how their super-soft fleece gets turned into cozy yarn, and meet the sweet and knowledgeable folks who run the place.
You can even take home a handmade souvenir from the farm store, like an alpaca wool figure that’s as soft as it sounds.
6. Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Pittsburgh
Then it’s time to go back to another big attraction in the city with a stop at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium.
Here you’ll find over 8,000 animals and a full underwater world waiting for you.
You can wander through zones like the African Savanna, the Tropical Forest, and The Islands.
Once you’re done looking at all the land animals, it’s time to explore the underwater world in the aquarium to see sharks, stingrays, and penguins swim right past your face.
From red pandas to sea lions, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium packs a whole world of wildlife into one epic day.
7. National Aviary, Pittsburgh
Just a few minutes away, the National Aviary takes things to the skies with over 500 feathered friends from across the globe.
This isn’t your average bird exhibit either.
You can walk right into free-flight rooms where flamingos strut past your feet and toucans zoom overhead.
There’s even a chance to hand-feed a rainbow lorikeet or watch a bald eagle up close, making this spot a total must if you’re into birds.
8. Hickory Hearth Highlands, McDonald
For the last stop, swing down to McDonald for a visit to Hickory Hearth Highlands, where the stars of the show are fluffy, fabulous Highland cattle with major personality.
This small family farm gives you a front-row seat to farm life, with tours that let you meet the herd, brush the cows, and snap selfies with those iconic shaggy bangs.
Even though the highlands might be the main event, the farm also has donkeys and pigs.
It’s a laid-back, super friendly spot that feels more like hanging out with old friends (furry ones included) than a typical zoo visit.
There’s no surprise that it’s so highly rated!
Related Posts
