Summer Fun for the Kids at Heart

Nestled on 200 acres just minutes from downtown, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a great family destination for those sunny days this summer. With hundreds of animals from across the globe in beautifully recreated habitats, there is no limit to the fun that can be had. You can bring a lunch and spread out at one of the many picnic tables or snack at the Zoofari Cafe. The kids can enjoy the Critter Encounters (petting zoo), the Jungle Gym, and Wild Animal Carousel, when taking a break from the trail. The summer, however, the zoo isn't just for the kiddies.

As a fund raiser for the zoo, which is strictly non-profit, there are events for adults only. So call the babysitter or drop the kids off at their grandparents and head to the zoo.

The Adventure Socials, as the zoo calls them, are events for the 21 and up crowd to have a drink, enjoy some live music, and spend time with fellow animals lovers. These aren't all fun, of course, they are learning experiences as well. Each one centers around one of the habitats at the zoo, with a party to go with the theme.

Coming up on July 16th, the Safari Swizzle at Elephant and Giraffe Savannahs event takes place at the zoo. Party goers are invited to enjoy "longneck" beers and barbecue near the giraffe habitat. African wines and safari fare will be served near the main elephant viewing area. The party wouldn't be complete with some elephant education and African drumming.

For something a bit more close to home, the zoo is holding Mardi Grassmere on August 23. Hurricanes and Cajun cuisine highlight this party down on the bayou (or as close as Nashville gets) in Alligator Cove. Showcasing one of the worlds greatest survivors the American Alligator who has endured relatively unchanged for over two million years.

The events cost $30 for zoo members and $40 for non members and discount tickets are available for groups of 2 and 4. Nashville Zoo's Adventure Socials are held from 6:30pm until 8:30pm and in many cases, the animals go to bed in the middle of the party.

In addition to these events, a Once Upon a Blue Moon camp out is taking place. Friends of the Animals 21 and up are invited to camp out under the stars (or in a tent) to celebrate the rare event of a second full moon in one month which occurs on June 30. Included in the $70 fee ($80 for non members), are 4 tickets for beer, dinner, animal presentations and activities, musical entertainment and the overnight stay. The morning brings a full breakfast, and the invitation to enjoy the zoo as your admission is paid.

There are of course events for the kids all summer long, for more information visit the zoos website.