Brandywine Zoo
Small enough to finish before naptime. Big enough to feel like an adventure.
The Quick Version
- • It's small — under 5 acres, about 150 animals. That's a feature, not a bug, when you have a toddler.
- • Free parking in Brandywine Park. The zoo entrance is a short walk from the lot.
- • Pair the zoo with Can-Do Playground at Alapocas Run State Park (~1 mile north) — fully accessible, one of the best playgrounds in the state.
- • Budget 60-90 minutes for the zoo.
Best Ages
1-8
Plan For
60-90 minutes
Adults
$9 May–Oct, $7 Mar/Apr/Nov, free Dec–Feb
Kids
$7 May–Oct, $5 Mar/Apr/Nov, free Dec–Feb (ages 3–17)
What to Expect
The Brandywine Zoo is Delaware's only zoo, and it's deliberately small — under 5 acres along Brandywine Creek. That's its strength with young families. You can see every animal, walk every path, and be done before anyone melts down.
The collection includes red pandas, otters, capybaras, bald eagles, bobcats, monkeys, and a good reptile house. The enclosures are close to the path and at kid height — your toddler will actually see the animals, unlike at bigger zoos where everything is behind a moat.
Pair the visit with Can-Do Playground at Alapocas Run State Park, about a mile north on the same side of the creek — a fully accessible playground that's a destination in its own right.
Did You Know?
Aubrey Plaza grew up in Wilmington and told The New York Times that Monkey Hill — the steep cobblestone road through Brandywine Park, just past the zoo — felt like a roller coaster when she and her cousins biked down it as kids.
Who It's Best For
This zoo is built for little ones. The paths are short, the animals are at kid height, and nothing takes more than 90 minutes. Toddlers can walk the whole thing. Babies in carriers will enjoy the animals up close. Kids over 8 may find it small.
Highlights
Red Pandas
All agesThe zoo's most popular residents. Active, adorable, and visible from the path. The enclosure is well-designed — you can watch them at eye level.
Otter Exhibit
All agesNorth American river otters playing, swimming, and being generally entertaining. The underwater viewing window is a hit.
Keeper Chats & Feeding Times
Ages 3+Daily talks where keepers explain animal behavior while feeding or enrichment happens. Short (10-15 min), engaging, and educational. Check the schedule at admission.
Reptile House
Ages 2+Small indoor building with snakes, turtles, and lizards. Climate-controlled — a welcome break on hot days. The turtles are a toddler favorite.
What to Skip with Little Ones
- • Rushing through — the whole point is that it's small enough to take your time.
Logistics
Admission
Adults
$9 May–Oct, $7 Mar/Apr/Nov, free Dec–Feb
Kids
$7 May–Oct, $5 Mar/Apr/Nov, free Dec–Feb (ages 3–17)
Under
Under 3 always free
Seasonal pricing. Dec–Feb admission is free (special events excepted). Confirm current rate on brandywinezoo.org before you go.
Membership tip: Zoo membership for a family includes reciprocal admission to 100+ AZA zoos. Pays for itself fast if you visit 3+ times or travel.
Getting There
Parking
Free parking in Brandywine Park along N Park Drive. Multiple lots — the zoo lot is closest but small. The Baynard Stadium lot (across the bridge) is larger and a 3-minute walk.
Weekend mornings the closest lot fills by 10 AM. Don't stress — the walk from the overflow lot along the creek is pleasant and short.
Entrance
Main entrance on N Park Drive, between the parking lot and the creek. Small admission booth — lines move fast.
Parent Logistics
Fully stroller-friendly. The paths are paved and relatively flat. The loop is tight enough that you won't regret bringing the stroller even if your toddler walks most of it.
Restrooms inside the zoo near the center of the path.
Available in the zoo restrooms.
Good shade throughout — the zoo is set along the Brandywine Creek with mature trees.
Food & Snacks
No food on-site. No restaurant. There's a small snack stand (seasonal) with drinks and packaged snacks.
Snack strategy: Pack a lunch. There are picnic tables and benches throughout the park. The Trolley Square neighborhood (5-minute drive) has restaurants — Kid Shelleen's is family-friendly.
Pro Tips
- ✓ The zoo runs special events (Boo at the Zoo in October, Zoo Brew for adults) — check the calendar.
- ✓ Combine with a walk along Brandywine Creek. The path from the parking lot follows the water and is beautiful.
- ✓ Closest good coffee is Brew HaHa on Lovering Ave (5-minute drive) or in Trolley Square.
- ✓ Daily hours (10 AM – 4 PM, last admission 3:30) are tight — go at opening when animals are active and it's cooler.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are nearly empty — you'll practically have the zoo to yourselves. Weekend mornings are fine but busier. Animals are most active in the morning and before closing.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round but reduced hours November-March. Admission is seasonal — higher May through October when more exhibits run. Spring and fall are the sweet spot: comfortable weather, active animals, manageable crowds.
Rainy Day?
Limited rain options — the reptile house is the only real indoor space. This is a fair-weather venue. Save it for a nice day.
While You're in the Area
Walk Brandywine Park toward Josephine Fountain. Drive a mile north to Can-Do Playground at Alapocas Run State Park. Rockford Park (open fields, great views) is 3 minutes away. Trolley Square for lunch.
Upcoming Events
Verified against the venue’s official info.
Last reviewed May 13, 2026. Prices re-checked May 13, 2026. Confirm anything dated (admission, hours, special events) on the venue’s own site before you drive.
Sources: brandywinezoo.org , destateparks.com