Storrs Take the Zoo

We took a take 2 for the Zoo last week. With virtual school coming super soon and Summer trying to close and end right before our eyes, I knew the Philadelphia Zoo would be the best social distanced place for us to be.

A second time?

I mean some of the exhibits that promote inside congregation have been closed. We did visit the zoo the first time a few weeks ago. The second time provides a great place to have open fresh air as well as plenty of walking aka getting the kids to sleep at night without issue. Also with the Summer sun beating down on us it makes a great way to social distance with a little flare.

Animal Observations

We did get to see the animals up and about a little more this time. We went the same time as last time, 11am. It’s a great way to get everyone up and about in our home before we head out. I thought with my children getting older it would make leaving the house a little smoother but nope! By the time I do a mask check, hand sanitizer check, and grabbed water and snacks, we almost missed our timed ticket. I was glad to see that however the animals were very much livelier. (See my Instagram stories for videos!

Even the animal statues have masks on

Lunch Break

We decided to have lunch this time. Last time we stopped for snacks and water. Having lunch gave us time to not feel rushed. Also I didn’t snap the lunch but it was good. I had a Beyond burger and the kids hotdogs and chicken nuggets of course. No one was hungry or asking me a thousand times can we stop for snacks.

All Hands on Deck

When I say that all staff is on deck when you’re at the zoo, I mean it. This visit and the one before I was personally created by the CEO, Vik Dewan. He was there asking us if we had questions and what to expect. I with my mask he didn’t recognize who I was but he still was super personable to everyone before and after me. It’s one thing to talk the talk but to walk the walk, is even more important. He could be in an office handling the day to day but he’s on the ground helping where it’s needed. How many CEOs can say the same?

New Hours..Who Dis?

Starting September 7, 2020 the Philadelphia Zoo will start operating with reduced hours. There new hours will be in operation Friday through Sunday. This will accommodate parents and students’ work and schools schedules. This is going to make it more ideal for all involved. Did you know the Zoo has their daily PhillyZoo at 2? Everyday at 2 the Zoo shows a different animal, on Facebook. My family and I stayed connected with the Zoo this way during the initial pandemic. It will be great for us to take it back to watching it during our school hours as a little break.

Animals in Care

All of the animals regardless of the zoo being opened on the weekend, will be taken care of with the highest of care. The animals will be attended to regardless of the zoo being opened. How you can help with their care is through donations. You can either donate on your own or donate with a purchase of one of the Philadelphia Zoo T-shirts or hoodies! I have one in red and plan to get one in red again for the hoodie:

Safety First

Remember that when you’re visiting the Zoo that you will need to keep your mask on unless seated and eating your mask. Hand sanitizers stations are throughout the entire Zoo. All staff are checked and no one with a temperature is permitted to work! There are reminders to stay 6 feet apart and while there both times I’ve yet to see anyone not comply.

So now that the Fall hours will be in affect, when will you take your fam bam to see the amazing animals?

For more information and to purchase tickets go to their page! Remember you will need to purchase a ticket before you go. All tickets are timed for your safety. You can bring in food from home. We brought a cooler with hand snacks and water this time around. Enjoy!

We will of course be back soon!! Thanks to the Philadelphia Zoo for having us and for Aversa PR for always making sure we have what we need when we visit!