To draw visitors, zoos count on gentle giraffes rolling out their long tongues to grasp treats, stingrays gliding through a pool to be petted and the playful tussling of tiger cubs. This year they’re also getting help from the recession. Zoos in cities including Cincinnati, St. Louis, Baltimore, Kansas City, Mo., and Memphis, Tenn., report higher attendance as consumers look for affordable entertainment closer to home.
“We are trying to be more careful in our spending, and this is a great way to do that and be with family,” said Noelle Bragg, 42, of Springboro, about 35 miles from Cincinnati. “Gas prices are rising again, and we don’t have to drive far to have a really good time.”
Bragg, her son and nephew had just finished feeding a giraffe at the Cincinnati Zoo.
The Associated Press
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