Load up the car with your small herd and head out to the zoo for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! This weekend San Antonio Zoo will launch Drive Thru Zoo, a one-of-a-kind experience where families can get the chance to see the zoo while we are closed from the comfort, safety and security of their own vehicle. The experience will include a guided educational audio tour and food and beverage curbside options featuring some of your favorite zoo treats along the route.  In fact, guests have not been able to tour the zoo on four wheels since there were carts led by donkeys then later trams.

“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.”

Drive Thru Zoo will be offered May 1 – 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online before their arrival. Admission per vehicle is $40 for non-pass holders and $32 for Annual Pass Holders and Members.

Drive Thru Zoo will be offered May 4 – 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online before their arrival. Admission per vehicle is $60 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. While driving a sloth’s pace and hearing about the zoo’s history and animals, guests will get the opportunity to purchase and enjoy some of their favorite zoo snacks and beverages along the route that will be brought to their vehicle.

*Vehicle size will be limited to 224″ L x 81″ W x 74″ H (approximate size of a Suburban)

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.

For more fun things to do in San Antonio this week, check out the latest issue of Fun10SanAntonio. 

Tess Abney

Tess Abney is a freelance writer who was born and raised in the Quad Cities. She spends most of her time attempting to successfully raise three boys. In her free time, writing is her passion. Whether it is sharing local events and businesses with readers or sharing her thoughts on life, she finds comfort in the way words can bring people together.