Goodbye Tulsa Zoo

I can’t remember a summer in the past 16 years that our family has not gone to the Tulsa Zoo at least once.  Several years ago we began purchasing their family zoo pass and we were there in the sun, the rain and the snow.  I am very sad to say that these days are about over  The Tulsa Zoo has gone from a relaxing, enjoyable way to spend time with my family to one big downer of a day. 

                         

Unless you are ready to spend a couple hundred bucks or only have one child, be prepared to say “No” a whole, whole lot.  I used to have to say no only one time, as we walked by the gift shop.  Now I say no to:

The Gift Shop

The Second Gift Shop

The Rock and Mineral Dig

The Camel Rides

The Rock Climb

Whatever that frog game is next to the rock climb

A food cart every 200 feet or so

A multitude of penny and 3.00 coin machines

And just when you think you are safe, a final gift shop-cart near the parking lot.

Today I also got to say no to 3 buildings that were shut down. Nope can’t go see Nanuk or the Cave or the Florescent Lights Display.  The exchange center, their very favorite place, was closed too.

Somewhere between the WAY overpriced fun and food, the terrible smells, the displays that are always under construction and that bear who looks like he needs antidepressants, I realized that we are done.  I don’t like having to spend an entire day saying no, no, no to my kids. Tulsa is a great city.  We will find something else to do.