Minnesota Zoo opening limited drive-thru experience

The Minnesota Zoo, which has been closed to the public since March 14, has announced a limited-time drive-thru experience as a way to raise funds to support the zoo.

According to a release, the drive-thru will be called "Beastly Boulevard." Tickets will go on sale Friday, June 19, and the drive-thrus will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from June 24 to July 5. Tickets per vehicle for zoo members will cost $25 and $50 for nonmembers. All tickets must be bought online ahead of time.

"The Zoo needs the support of our community now more than ever, and by driving through Beastly Boulevard, you are supporting the Zoo and the thousands of animals that we care for every day," said Minnesota Zoo Director John Frawley. "We have been working hard to plan this experience and we are excited to be able to safely welcome guests back to the Minnesota Zoo in this unique way to reconnect with animals and nature."

"Beastly Boulevard" will take visitors through a route along the zoo's northern trail. It passes by takin, bison, prairie dogs, pronghorn, Asian wild horses, camels, dhole, llamas, horses, cow and goats, the zoo said. The drive will take approximately 20-30 minutes with vehicles safely distanced and driving at a controlled speed. The experience will also feature a kid-friendly educational booklet that guests will be able to follow along with as they view the animals.

You can buy tickets at this link beginning Friday or donate to the Minnesota Zoo Foundation at any time here.