San Antonio Zoo Launches Drive-Thru Program
April 29, 2020 - San Antonio
By B. Kay Richter - Staff Writer, San Antonio Sentinel
The San Antonio Zoo plans to launch a Drive-Thru program this weekend, where families are encouraged to enjoy a new creative experience from the safety of their vehicles.
This one-of-a-kind driving tour is the solution zoo officials developed in response to the global pandemic COVID-19 which has forced many businesses and nonprofits to shutter their doors temporarily.
“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 and CEO of the San Antonio Zoo.
The drive-thru program includes a guided educational audio tour as well as the traditional food and beverage curbside options. According to the zoo, guests have not been able to tour the zoo on four wheels since carts were led by donkeys and then later replaced by trams.
"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," Morrow said in a press release on Wednesday.
The drive-thru zoo will be open from Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 3. Guests can expect to be allowed to drive the premises from 10 a.m until 5 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased online before arrival. Admission per vehicle is $40 for non-pass zoo holders and $32 for annual pass holders and zoo members. The zoo does plan to offer curbside ticketing but only for annual pass holders and members so that admission can be purchased safely from their vehicle.
As far as vehicle sizing, it will be limited to 198 inches long, 78 inches wide and 76 inches high (the approximate size of a Chevy Tahoe).
Since the unplanned closure last month, the zoo has been trying to find new methods to generate revenue. From baskets filled with zoo gifts to Adopt-An-Animal kits to a new monthly membership - the nonprofit continues to develop new initiatives.
According to zoo officials, the nonprofit has a long road ahead to recovery and is asking people to consider donating to their emergency fund. Donations can be made at www.sazoo.org/emergency-fund.
B. Kay Richter is a writer and photographer residing in the Alamo City. Contact her at bkay@sasentinel.com