The Cardiac Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) invites you to a Family Education and Fun Day at the Philadelphia Zoo! Don’t miss this chance to connect with cardiac patients and families past and present, as well as the Cardiac Center staff. Expect a day of giveaways, educational opportunities and plenty of fun with the animals.  

Our event will take place rain or shine. When you arrive, you’ll get a free parking pass, a T-shirt and other giveaways! 

Location

Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104 | Impala Lawn

Registration and Fee

Thank you for your interest in the CHOP Cardiac Family Education and Fun Day.

Because of the immediate and enthusiastic response, all our available tickets have been claimed and registration is now closed. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to connecting with you at future events.

Questions?

Please contact CardiacCenterAdmin@chop.edu.

For additional details about the event, refer to these frequently asked questions!

Cardiac Family Education & Fun Day: Know Before You Go

Please review this important information about the Cardiac Family Education & Fun Day at the Philadelphia Zoo.

This event will be held rain or shine! 

Start end time, event check-in

What time should I arrive?

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., directly outside of the front gates of the Zoo. After you check in, you can head to the Impala Lawn, which will serve as our “home base” for the day. This is where you'll pick up your T-shirts and giveaways. 

After 12 p.m. (noon) our check-in tables will move to the Impala Lawn. If you arrive after 12 p.m. let the Zoo staff know you’re with the Cardiac Family Education & Fun Day. You can proceed to Impala Lawn once through the gates. Check-in and T-shirt distribution will end by 2 p.m

Where can I see my favorite CHOP Cardiac team members?

Look for our team members in their hot pink t-shirts that say “STAFF” on the back!  

What time does the event end?

Our official CHOP event will end at 3 p.m. Please note this means that after 2 p.m., you will not be able to obtain a parking pass, and T-shirt distribution will end. However, you’re welcome to stay until the zoo closes at 5 p.m. 

Do I need to print my ticket?

No. When you arrive at the Zoo entrance, please be prepared to give us the last name you registered with. That is how we’ll check you in! 

When you check in, you’ll get your Zoo entrance tickets and parking pass.

Do I need a separate ticket for Zoo admission?

You’ll receive your Zoo entrance ticket when you check in on the day of the event. 

Giveaways

Will there be T-shirts or other giveaways?

Yes! Once you’re checked in, proceed to Impala Lawn to pick up your T-shirt, as well as other fun take-home items. Because of the overwhelming response and attendance expected for this event, we’ll do our best to make sure every patient gets a T-shirt. We appreciate your patience and understanding. If parents or other family members want to purchase T-shirts, you can do so on this site, and they will be shipped directly to your house. 

Parking and Directions

When do I get my parking pass?

One parking pass will be provided to each group at check-in. You do not need a pass to enter a garage/lot. You will give the pass to the parking attendant when you leave. 

Where should I park?

You may park in any of the zoo parking lots. Please note that parking is limited! We recommend arriving early and carpooling if you can. 

Handicapped accessible parking spots and spaces for vans are available in both the Tiger Lot and the Parking Garage. 

Please visit the Zoo’s website for directions and additional information. 

Food & Drinks

Will there be food and refreshments?

We will provide each family with a gift certificate that can be used to offset the cost of any food families want to purchase from vendors at the zoo.

Can I bring outside food or drink?

Yes. If you wish to bring your own lunch, snacks or special foods your child or family may require because of dietary restrictions, you can bring those in small bags or soft coolers. Breastmilk is also permitted. Please don’t bring large hard-sided coolers, and no alcoholic beverages. 

Miscellaneous

What do I do if I have a problem?

If you have an emergency, the best thing to do would be to find a Zoo staff member and ask for help. If you have any questions regarding the CHOP event (food, parking, T-shirts, etc.), the Impala Lawn, will be our home base until 2 p.m. 

Visit the Zoo website to plan your visit and check out amenities such as stroller or wheelchair rentals.