I have spent my entire life traveling through Alexandria without stopping to explore. When I was small my grandparents would load us up and travel to South Louisiana to visit relatives. Then when I attended LSU, Alexandria was only a rest stop on my way to Baton Rouge. I never took time to explore the city. All those years I was missing out.
Alexandria is a great city, there's so much to do and see. One of my favorite things to do is to visit the Alexandria Zoological Park. It is such a great place to visit. There are so many animals and exhibits that we weren't able to see them all in our first visit. The zoo has a great Louisiana exhibit with animals native to our great state. In addition to the animals in the Louisiana Habitat, there are Bengal Tigers, Indochinese Tigers, Clouded Leopards, Black Bears, Spider Monkeys, Toucans, American Crocodiles, White Tailed Deer and so much more.
A highlight or our visit was riding the Bayou Le Zoo Choo Choo train around the park. It was a great way to see the entire park and enjoy the scenery. Our kids just loved it!
The Alexandria Zoological Park, founded in 1926, boasts over 600 animals on 35 acres in the middle of Alexandria. The Zoo, which is run by the City of Alexandria, is located at 3016 Masonic Drive or Highway 165 Business and is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Admission: Adults 13-65: $3.00; Seniors 65 and over: $1.50; Children 4-12: $2.00; Children 3 and younger: free. Train Rides ages 1 and older: $1.50.
One of the great things for the residents of Alexandria and surrounding area is the educational programs offered by the zoo. There are educational programs for all ages including Homeschool Classes, Wild Nites free lectures for teens and adults during fall and spring, field trips and lectures.
The zoo also has a gift shop and a snack shop, Palm Cafe.
According to the Alexandria Zoological Park's website the mission of the zoo is to promote understanding and conservation of the natural world in which we live.
So, the next time you are looking for a fun, family activity plan on taking a drive to Alexandria, Louisiana and visit the Alexandria Zoological Park. Make sure you allow plenty of time to view all of the exhibits and take in the sights and sounds of this fun, educational place.
To view more information about the zoo, vist their very professional website at http://www.thealexandriazoo.com/. Visit the kids page at http://www.thealexandriazoo.com/education/kids/index.html to learn more about the fun programs at the zoo and also about the animals that call the zoo home. For parents and teachers visit http://www.thealexandriazoo.com/education/teachers/educationLinks.html for some educational resources and information.
Upcoming events at the Alexandria Zoological Park
Saturday, Sept. 6
Black Bear Conservation Day
Saturday, Sept. 20
Zoo Day
http://www.thealexandriazoo.com/events/index.html
Check out the events in October and during the holidays. There are special events such as "Boo at the Zoo" in October and Christmas lights during the holidays. When planning your family holiday time, think about taking a visit to the zoo.
