Zoo attendance holding up amid rough economy
Zoos typically count on special exhibits and attractions to boost traffic. This year, they’re also getting help from an unlikely source – the recession. More than half of 120 members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums responding to a survey reported year-over-year attendance increases. Consumers, it seems, are seeking more affordable entertainment closer to home, and zoos fit the bill. The Indianapolis Zoo is not among those experiencing larger crowds. However, its numbers are holding steady this year despite an abundance of bad weather. Through May, 328,405 visitors passed through the zoo’s turnstile – just 100 shy of the amount through the first five months of last year. Household memberships are up nearly 2 percent, to about 35,800. Since April 1,
Indianapolis has receeived 20.4 inches of precipita
tion, the third most on record for that period, according to the National Weather Service.
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