While it seemed that spring might never get here, a sure sign that it has arrived in southwest Michigan is when Binder Park Zoo opens for the season. Thursday, April 12 is the day when the zoo welcomes the public back to visit the animals, enjoy the rides, restaurants, gift shops and all the great experiences that defines a day spent at the zoo.
“The excitement at the zoo is real - even the animals seem to know that winter is finally over and it’s “show time” once again!” We’ve been busy preparing exhibits, moving animals from their winter quarters and polishing up the park in in anticipation.” states Diane Thompson, President and CEO.
The 2018 zoo season takes shape with a full roster of engaging education programs that include zoo camps, overnight programs, playgroups and more. Safari Day Camps offer a new and unique alternative to day care for the summer. Geared for grades 1-7, kids are so busy exploring the fascinating world of animals and nature, they don’t even realize they’re learning! Birthday Parties at the zoo and Zookeeper for a Day continue to be popular as well. Many programs have limited capacity and early registration is encouraged. Binder Park Zoo’s mission to: Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve, is the backbone of every program at the zoo.
Spring is also prime time for group visits to the zoo. Whether it’s Schools on Safari or other organized groups, the fun factor and educational value is multiplied with the addition of a Wild Encounters program where animal “meet & greets” and other special activities will take a group visit to higher level of learning.
A full schedule of special events kicks off with the Cheetah Chase on June 23 followed by Zoorific Kids’ Day on July 7, Corks for Conservation on July 13, Reptile Weekend on August 4-5, Tour de Zoo on August 9, Sunset on Savanna on August 31 and Bonteboktoberfest on October 13. ZooBoo returns October 18-21 and 25-28 and a re-imagined ZooLights on dates in November-December will round out the year.
With so many opportunities for learning and entertainment, being a member is the most economical way to enjoy the zoo. Membership levels for individuals, couples, families and grandparents all include a host of benefits like discounts for certain programs, discounts in the gift shops and ticket discounts for ZooBoo. Members also receive a travel card good for discounted reciprocal admission at over 150 AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) zoos and aquariums across the country. Additionally, for the month of May, zoo members can use their travel card to take advantage of the Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership Exchange and receive FREE admission to the Gilmore Car Museum, Kalamazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo Institute of Art, Air Zoo, and W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary & W.K. Kellogg Manor House. Visit each location in May and be entered for a chance to win a season membership to all six attractions.
Binder Park Zoo is open Monday through Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 11am-6pm.
To plan your visit to the zoo, register for education programs, learn about special events or memberships, go to www.binderparkzoo.org [binderparkzoo.org] or call the zoo at(269) 979-1351. Like and follow Binder Park Zoo on Facebook!
Source: PRESS RELEASE
