Woodland Park Zoo Press Release

What:
Woodland Park Zoo will host an open house to provide zoo visitors, zoo members, the community, and neighbors the opportunity to discuss changes planned for the zoo’s 2007 season directly with zoo staff. The proposed changes include a new seasonal pricing plan, new membership rates, new operating hours, and enhanced guest programs and visitor amenities. Woodland Park Zoo will continue to compare favorably in value and price to other family venues across the region.

For the first time, the zoo is planning to implement seasonal pricing. May through September, admission prices are planned at $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for children 3-12. October through April prices will remain at $10.50 for adults and $7.50 for children 3-12. As in the past, toddlers 2 and under will continue to be admitted free.

The zoo offers longer hours, more attractions and guest programs during the summer season and beginning in 2007, entrance to the popular Butterflies & Blooms and Willawong Station will also be free with zoo admission. Comparatively lower prices during fall, winter and spring will help spread zoo attendance throughout the year, maximizing indoor facilities such as Zoomazium. Healthy revenues from admissions will continue to support world-class animal care at the zoo along with conservation programs around the world and in our backyard.

New membership prices will reflect the increases in admission prices during the summer season. But substantial discounts on membership purchases and renewals will be offered via mail or Internet beginning in 2007.

In 2007 the zoo plans to introduce a new, improved guest experience æ more animals and new species on the zoo’s signature African Savanna exhibit: more “first-person” interpreters or naturalists from faraway lands; more educational opportunities and perhaps increased up-close opportunities for animal encounters and feeding.

Zoo hours will be simplified beginning January 1, 2007. Hours will be 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. October 1 through April 30, and 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. May 1 through September 30. Guests who have already entered may stay on grounds one hour after closing. Also for the first time, the zoo will be closed on Christmas Day starting in 2007.

When:
Tuesday, October 17, 5:00 -8:00 p.m.

Where:
The Education Center at Woodland Park Zoo located near the South Entrance at N. 50th St. & Fremont Ave. N. Free parking.

Info:
Contact Jim Bennett at 206.615.1026 or jim.bennett@zoo.org for more information about the open house or check out the Neighborhood News section of the zoo’s Web site.

Accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, award-winning Woodland Park Zoo is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting a standard for zoos all over the world. With conservation, education and excellent animal care at the core of the zoo’s mission, the zoo is helping to save endangered species in Washington state and around the world including tree kangaroos, snow leopards, red-crowned cranes, African wild dogs, western pond turtles and Oregon silverspot butterflies. By inspiring visitors and others to care and act, Woodland Park Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future.