Load up the car with your small herd family and head the San Antonio Zoo for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: Drive Thru Zoo! Families will have the chance to see the zoo while it’s closed from the comfort, safety and security of their own vehicle. Guests have not been able to tour the zoo on four wheels since there were carts led by donkeys (then later, trams).
The Drive Thru Zoo experience will include driving a sloth’s pace, a guided educational audio tour and food & beverage curbside options featuring some of your favorite zoo treats along the route.
“This is a very unique and safe way for families to see the zoo while we are closed from the comfort of their own car.” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO San Antonio Zoo. “Proceeds from this event will help fund the care of our animals through this closure. This new, creative way to see the zoo will be a gradual step towards our plan to reopen to foot traffic when we are given the “green light” and the time is right.”
What You Need to Know about Drive Thru Zoo –
- Drive Thru Zoo will be offered May 1 – 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Admission: $60 per vehicle for non-pass holders and $32 for Annual Pass Holders and Members. (Annual Pass Holders and Members will need to purchase their discounted admission upon arrival at the zoo. The zoo will offer curb side ticketing for Annual Pass Holders and Members so that admission can be purchased safely from their vehicle.) It is highly recommended you purchase tickets online ahead of time as they are selling out quickly.
- Once you exit the zoo, your day pass is no longer valid.
- Speed limit is 4 mph or less
- Zoo snacks and beverages available for purchase along the route (will be brought to your vehicle).
- Vehicle size must be no larger than a full-size SUV or smaller (Max vehicle specs: 198 L X 78 W X 76 H – approximate size of a Chevy Tahoe)
- Pets are not permitted on zoo grounds.
- Please remain in your vehicle during tour. (All tailgates, van/car doors, and hatchbacks must remain closed at all times.)
- There will be two restrooms will be available. Staff will monitor entry and exit to maintain social distancing.
- Please keep noise to a minimum.
- Follow the guided route.
- Be responsible stewards of the environment by keeping everything in your vehicle.
- Alcohol is not permitted on zoo grounds and vehicles are subject to search.
About The San Antonio Zoo:
Since closing on March 14, San Antonio Zoo has lost virtually all ability to generate income. Still, the team has been working to find creative ways to generate revenue in any way that can help the zoo survive this closure. From baskets filled with zoo gifts to Adopt-An-Animal kits, and even a new monthly membership for as low as $3.00 per month, the team has a no-fail attitude. Unlike most zoos in the country, San Antonio Zoo is 100% dependent on ticket sales, guest visitation, donations, and grants creating the need for the zoo to start an emergency fund donation campaign and unique opportunities like Drive Thru Zoo. The zoo has a long road ahead to recovery and is asking that people donate to its emergency fund. Donations can be made at www.sazoo.org/emergency-fund.
Oh I hope Dallas does something like this. So fun!
Sounds like lots of fun.
That is really awesome. I wish our zoo was set up so they could do something similar.