It's a Zoo Out There

Shannon and I took the boys to the zoo today (I'm on "vacation" this week). Reluctantly we settled for the Kansas City Zoo, not wanting to drive too far. We've been to the Kansas City Zoo in past years and generally been unimpressed, especially when compared to Omaha's zoo. KC's zoo has been second rate and outdated and, above all, way too spread out (there's nothing like a ten minute hike between exhibits).

But we were so pleased with our visit today! First off we were prepared with good shoes, sunscreen, a water jug, snacks, and a good stroller for Graham. When we arrived we were blessed with a cool breeze and occasional clouds to keep the late July heat to a minimum. And our masterstroke was when we bought passes for unlimited rides on the train, tram, and boat, which greatly reduced the walking and gave us needed breaks and a pleasant diversion for the boys.

But the single biggest difference this year in contrast to past years was the zoo itself–they've remodeled! We kept finding exhibits that had been modified and improved. A dozen times we said, "I don't remember it being this nice," or, "I don't remember this part at all." They added a much needed shortcut in the middle of the park and made several changes, one of which was a hit with our little boys–the discovery barn, a remodeled barn full of cute fuzzies, interactive play areas, and an artificial tree to climb outside. The boys didn't want to leave.

Overall, it was a much improved experience, especially for the prepared family. So much so that we intend to buy a season pass next year.


Here's Brennan, Tanner, and Elijah on the train at the zoo. They're wearing their school uniforms.


Graham enjoyed the train as well, cooing and pointing a lot. He did fairly well for being off-schedule and missing his nap.


It's amazing how close you can get to some of the animals. The boys encountered several strange species.


Most impressive was the access to the kangaroos. To our stunned surprise, they're basically roaming free in one part of the park. Eli was convinced he could go nap in the shade with them.


We found beautiful things in trees…

…including this cute little critter, still clutching his admittance ticket.


Tanner is in the climbing stage and was swinging from the branches all day. All of the boys clamored over the whole zoo and still couldn't get enough.