Winter has arrived, but don't let that stop you from visiting the zoo. Knoxville Zoo is open daily, and is currently offering special half-price admission for all visitors through Feb. 28, 2007.
Now is a great time to visit the zoo, because animals are often more active and playful during cooler temperatures. Because zoo attendance is slower this time of year, the animals are often excited to see and interact with visitors.
Factors, such as wind, rain and snow, along with temperature are taken into consideration when determining if an animal should be brought inside. Some animals don't have the ability to acclimate to cooler conditions and must be left in their inside holding areas. This process typically happens when the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. When animals are inside, there are viewing areas for visitors to see elephants, gorillas, penguins, reptiles, bears and animals in the Living Wall at the Zoo Shop.
Zoo memberships are also a great value during the winter. A membership allows for shorter, more frequent visits to the zoo. Zoo members can enjoy a quick visit to the Clayton Family Kids Cove or make a short stop with the chimps. Prices and level of memberships vary.
Knoxville Zoo is located off exit 392 from Interstate 40 and is open every day except Christmas Day.
The zoo is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education.
Currently, the zoo is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission and ticket sales stop one hour before the zoo closes. Next-day admission is free after 3 p.m. For more information, please call 865-637-5331 ext. 300.