Cleveland Metropark Zoo is one of Northeast Ohio’s biggest attractions. After closing temporarily due to the current pandemic, the zoo reopened its gates late last year to eager visitors. Here’s what you need to know about visiting the much-loved zoo in the new normal:
Fast facts about Cleveland Metropark Zoo
At the heart of Cleveland is one of the most family-friendly attractions in the city: the Cleveland Metropark Zoo. The zoo was first launched in 1882 when industrialist Jeptha H. Wade donated 183 acres of land, along with 14 American deer, to the City of Cleveland.
Over the years, Cleveland Metropark Zoo has expanded its menagerie to include over 3,000 animals across 500 species. Furthermore, it created several themed areas that each feature a unique habitat, such as Australian Adventure, African Savannah, Waterfowl Lake, and Wilderness Trek.
Conservation is the zoo’s major thrust, and it works to protect many endangered animal species, including lions, gorillas, giraffes, and Asian turtles. This means that with every visit you take, you help protect a host of vulnerable species.
How is the zoo protecting visitors’ safety?
The zoo has implemented wide-ranging health protocols so it can once again welcome guests. Primary among these is reducing the number of visitors at any given time; overall guest volume has been reduced by 75%, while several attractions operate at just 50% capacity.
To encourage proper hand hygiene, handwashing stations are now found throughout the zoo. High-touch areas, such as doorknobs and railings, are regularly sanitized.
Many of the exhibit areas will have a one-way flow, meaning all guests must walk in a single file while observing social distancing. For people’s safety, attractions like the Contact Yard, Camel Ride, and Sarah Allison Steffee Center will be temporarily closed.
What safety precautions must guests follow?
Ensuring safety works both ways, so guests must observe certain precautions, too.
Chief among these is wearing a mask, which is required for all guests over the age of six. If you are not able to do so due to medical conditions, you will be given a wristband to notify others that you are exempt from mask-wearing. Though you are not required to wear a face shield, you are required to wear a mask underneath if you do.
As previously mentioned, you must observe social distancing at all times, whether you’re viewing the exhibits or using the zoo facilities. And don’t worry, signages throughout the zoo will help remind you to stand at least six feet away from others.
Guests are able to buy their tickets at the box office on the day of their visit, but it is recommended to purchase tickets online to further minimize face-to-face contact.
Cleveland is home to many excellent attractions and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is just one of them. Just follow the precautions above, and you’re sure to have a fun and safe time at this beloved attraction.
Looking for more Cleveland, Ohio event and activities? The Michelle McQuade Real Estate team knows all the latest happenings in the city. Be sure to check out our other blogs to discover all the fun things you can do in The Forest City.
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