The Chattanooga Zoo will increase its admission prices beginning June 1 to help offset the expenses from additional exhibits, wages, animal care, and more. Regular Zoo admissions will increase $1. Adults will be $9.95, children will be $6.95, and seniors will be $7.95. Children 2 and under will remain free.
Membership rates will also be increased. Rates will go up about 20 percent for each membership level. The Chattanooga Zoo will also be adding a new Membership level-Grandparents Plus Membership. Zoo officials encourages all Zoo goers and current Zoo members to join and renew their memberships early before the rates go up.
The Chattanooga Zoo has not raised its prices since 2012. Since this the last price increase the Chattanooga Zoo has added the Deserts and Forests of the World exhibits, adding over 50 new species to the Zoo’s collection including fennec fox, komodo dragon, two-toed sloth, meerkat, many venomous reptiles, and more. Many existing exhibits, including the capybara exhibit, have been renovated and expanded.
The Zoo has also added to its animal collection through acquisitions and animal births, such as prehensile tailed porcupine and snow leopard cubs. In addition to growing the Zoo’s animal collection and exhibits, it has also added more educational offerings such as the WILD Encounter program, and have enhanced the guest experience through offerings of camel and train rides.
Our goal is to keep Zoo prices affordable and to continue to be a community resource for all,” says Dardenelle Long, Chattanooga Zoo CEO and president. “We always hate increases, but even with this increase, we are still the best deal in town.”
Compared to other similar accredited facilities, the Chattanooga Zoo remains one of the most affordable Zoo’s in the country, said officials. The Chattanooga Zoo will continue to honor its Military discount, student discount, and other discounts currently offered.
For more information on price increases, please visit www.chattzoo.org.