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ROYAL OAK, Mich., March 16, 2006 -- The Detroit Zoo’s newly renovated Zoofari Market gift shop opens its doors to the public on March 22. Located at the admission gates, the 2,400-square-foot retail space features a broad selection of animal-themed merchandise and homemade refreshments. The store is open during regular Zoo hours.
A special added attraction of the gift area is an African section, featuring hand-carved and hand-painted animals, masks, musical instruments and decorative accessories. Also new are infant and “tween” sections, including fun clothing and decorative accessories.
An expanded apparel section features Detroit Zoo-logo jackets, sweatshirts, tee shirts and baseball caps in sizes infants though adults. In addition, a jewelry department has been added, including animal-themed earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and pins.
The Educational and Family Activity Center has been expanded to include an increased book assortment and offers more interactive toys, games and puzzles. The expansion of plush animals and toys offers a greater variety of species found in other regions of the world.
Homemade fudge – prepared on the premises – and specialty coffees, along with freshly baked muffins and fresh-made take-out salads and sandwiches by the Detroit Zoo’s own Chef Tim, are also featured.
The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo. Founded in 1928, the Institute is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife. Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak. Winter hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., November through March, with several indoor viewing areas. Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61, $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older, and $7.00 for children ages 2 to 12; children under 2 are free. For more information, call (248) 398-0900 or visit www.detroitzoo.org. The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is currently undergoing renovation but provides some programming, with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on weekdays with advance reservations by calling (313) 852-4056. The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Institute. Financial support has allowed the Zoo to open new exhibits, develop important education and conservation programs and implement major beautification projects. To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership or volunteering, please call (248) 541-5717.
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