Have kids who love animals? If you're looking for animals near you in Bethlehem and the surrounding area, we have the list! From zoo animals to farm animals, and from the furry to the scaly, we have all the animals you'll need to please your little animal lover.
Local Places to See Animals:
The Wildlands Conservancy
Emmaus, PA
The Wildlands Conservancy is one of my kids' favorite places to visit in the area. On any given day, who knows what kinds of animals you'll see on a hike? During the summer hours, visit the pond to watch tadpoles transform into frogs!
Klein Farms
Bethlehem, PA
At Klein Farms you can see farm animals, purchase local dairy products, and treat the kids to ice cream to cap off the day!
Schecksville, PA
The Lehigh Valley Zoo is the perfect destination when you're looking for a way to spend a few hours without driving all the way to the Philadelphia Zoo. It is located in Schecksville, about a half hour from Bethlehem. The zoo is nestled in the picturesque Trexler Nature Preserve and is really a joy to walk around. Your kids can feed giraffes (for an extra expense), pet animals at the petting zoo, and even see a bald eagle!
Worth the drive from Bethlehem
If you're up for a little road trip, here are additional spots worth the drive from Bethlehem to see animals:
Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia, PA
If you want to pack a day full of animal fun, the Philadelphia Zoo is the place to go! You can spend hours wandering around this giant zoo and exploring all of the different animal exhibits. There are a variety of food options, and fun rides too! Hint: Bring a stroller for little ones, this location requires a LOT of walking!
Norristown, PA
The Elmwood Zoo is an adorable little zoo that my daughter and I finally visited this past fall. There is a great playground and the layout was easy to walk. The red panda was a huge hit!
 John Natoli via Canva |
Adventure Aquarium
Camden, NJ
Camden Aquarium is located in Camden on the waterfront, with a view of downtown Philadelphia. There is a great collection of sea animals, penguins, and fish of all kinds! If you're feeling especially brave, you can even walk above a tank of sharks on a (very safe) rope ladder! (Hint: You can bring in your own food! There is a cafeteria, but the selection isn't amazing).
Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den
Scranton, PA
Who knew that Scranton had the cutest little aquarium... and it's in a mall! I somehow stumbled upon this a few years ago and loaded my kids in the car for a visit. You honestly will not spend more than an hour or two here, but there are some great exhibits, including a tunnel of fish that you can walk under. Since my family and I have visited, the website boasts a new Rainforest expansion. Time for another visit!
If All Else Fails, Visit a Pet Store!
Depending on the pet store, you could find a large display of fish, rodents, birds, snakes, lizards, and furry friends.
If you can say no to the puppy-dog faces, this activity can be free! The last time I tried this with my kids we came home with a fish, but I am happy to say that she has become a beloved member of our family.
A few local options: Petco, Bethlehem; PetSmart, Bethlehem
