CLEVELAND — If you’re looking to get out of the house, the Cleveland Zoo is offering a first-of-its-kind experience known as “Cruise the Zoo.”
This event offers guests the opportunity to explore the zoo and visit the animals from the safety of their own vehicle.
“Guests can expect to see many of the zoo’s animals including tigers, grizzly bears, snow leopards, takin, reindeer, lions and kangaroos,” officials said in a press release. “Cleveland Metroparks Zoo employees will help guide families along the specified route that will also feature animal ambassador experiences.”
“Cruise the Zoo” is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday from May 20 until May 31. The cost is $20 per car for zoo members and $40 per car for non-members.
3News was given the opportunity to experience "Cruise the Zoo" on Thursday morning. You can watch our tour in the player at the top of this story.
Advance reservations are required, and must be purchased online HERE.
“Reservations will be scheduled in one-hour time slots to help limit the number of vehicles per hour and maintain safety with the final ticketed entry concluding at 3 p.m. Guests will not be able to exit their vehicle during the experience.”
Since closing to the public March 16 amid coronavirus concerns, zoo officials say revenue is down more than $1.5 million from last year.
“While the zoo has been closed for over two months, our daily efforts to care for some of the world’s most endangered animals does not stop,” said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Dr. Chris Kuhar. “While we look forward to fully reopening the zoo to the community as soon as it is safe to do so, the Cruise the Zoo event will offer families a way to visit with our animals and support the Zoo during this difficult time.”
Other highlights on “Cruise the Zoo”:
- A free audio guide for families to listen to during the journey (available HERE).
- Virtual photo booth.
- Scavenger hunt: Search for hidden animal displays throughout the experience. Those who share a picture of their experience on social media using #CruiseTheZoo will be given a chance to win an achievement award that can be exchanged for free food at Raising Cane’s. Hint: The audio guide has some tips.
MORE COVERAGE: