Thanks to my good blog-friend, Mel, a PR tour de force, I was given an invitation to the behind-the-scenes VIP opening of the new Elephant Odyssey exhibit at the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
The San Diego Zoo, along with the Wild Animal Park, has played a big role in my family's life. I think a Zoo Pass is about the best bargain for family entertainment there is--when my kids were young we often went to the zoo once a week or more. MVP would probably have been a lover of all things wild and reptilian without the zoo exposure, but it was great to be able to feed his passion in a way that was fun for the whole family. You'll know I'm not a corporate shill if you read this post--my love for the zoo is pure and unadulterated by commercial interests!
The sneak peek at Elephant Odyssey did not disappoint. This is an amazing exhibit--7.5 acres in total with 35 species of animals with the 2.5 acre elephant portion sporting a pool among the amenities. If you live in San Diego or are planning a visit here, the zoo is a must-visit. I would have said that even before the new exhibit opened, but this is just one more reason to make sure the zoo is on your agenda.
So . . . I have a few gazillion pictures to share.
The main attraction
Up close with the animals. There's an owl, a desert tortoise, a crocodile and a singing dog. MVP got to have a lengthy one-on-one conversation with the herpetologist--great conversation for a wildlife biology major.
There were two special highlights for me.
This movie plays within a cool, dark tunnel and the flooring is super-spongy. I can just picture a tired, hot mama taking a much-needed break with her tired, hot children snuggled on her lap, watching baby elephants cavort on screen.
This one is just because I'm a total dork and was enamored of being in places that will never again be open to the public. And I like the idea that the keepers can wash their uniforms and store their dusty boots at work.
How could you not be enchanted by the living, freaky-cool, circulating appetizer table?
Is anyone else a fan of Ace of Cakes? These cakes were too cool for words.
It's safe to say a good time was had by all.
L-R: MVP's friend Victoria, MVP, Jenn, SIL Kim, Kim's Mom Billie, Nephew Chris, Mr. Fix-it.
Thanks to Mel and to Drew at the San Diego Zoo for inviting me to be part of this great event.
SnakeMaster would definitely love to visit! He'd also like to hang out with MVP and talk all things reptilian.
Grinning here over your photo of a well-organized laundry facility. Why does this not surprise me? ;)
Posted by: kcinnova | May 26, 2009 at 12:54 AM
I love elephants and I love Ace of Cakes and I can't believe they met at the Zoo. (It's all happening at the Zoo...)
Posted by: Suzy | May 26, 2009 at 02:28 AM
I always LOVED the SD Zoo! When I did my student teaching in San Diego it was a GREAT field trip!
I went there many times on my own just because it was so awesome.
Posted by: vodkamom | May 26, 2009 at 07:10 AM
Wonderful pictures Jenn!!!
Looks like a fun day for all...yes, I liked the laundry room too. :)
Singing dog? Did he really sing? And what kind of songs???
:)
Posted by: Busy Bee Suz | May 26, 2009 at 07:36 AM
Oh wow, that's so great. Way better than the elephant house at the National Zoo in D.C.
Posted by: Jen on the Edge | May 26, 2009 at 08:32 AM
that looks like so much fun. we always have a an annual pass to the zoo. best deal ever. hopefully will make it to the san diego zoo somseday....
Posted by: Madge | May 26, 2009 at 09:36 AM
Sounds great, London Zoo is our 'local' Zoo and although 'historical' nowhere near as exciting as San diego sounds.
There is an award on my blog for you :).
Posted by: Student Mum | May 26, 2009 at 11:08 AM
Oh my!! What a wonderful way to spend the day!! I canNOT wait to go....will show the boys the pictures of the 'phants...we love 'em!!
That circulating appetizer table looked a bit freaky, but....were those tortilla roll-ups on the table? Freaky or not...I'd eat!!
Posted by: debbie | May 26, 2009 at 11:47 AM
That was a great opportunity for MVP!
My sister-in-law's twin and her family live in San Diego and my niece and nephews love to go to the zoo when they visit out there.
Posted by: Little Miss Sunshine State | May 26, 2009 at 01:11 PM
Haven't been to the SD zoo in ages. What a great opportunity!
Posted by: Fannie | May 26, 2009 at 02:06 PM
I love elephants - the new exhibit looks great. Last time I was at the SD zoo it was a corporate event and we saw some of the normally off limits stuff - I agree, it adds a lot to the experience!
Posted by: Susan | May 26, 2009 at 04:50 PM
Love to visit our zoo! But the San Diego Zoo is fantastic!!!
My little ones could spend the entire day there, and never a moment of fussiness!!!
Posted by: Zelzee | May 26, 2009 at 07:45 PM
singing DOG?
Posted by: gary | May 26, 2009 at 07:47 PM
Hey...that looks like a shiba!!!
Posted by: Janet | May 26, 2009 at 09:49 PM
Looks like fun! I love our zoo, although I could do without the crowds when I've gone lately. The coolest thing we have is a tunnel you walk through, that you can see polar bears swimming in the water above and around you. Very cool!
Posted by: jenrantsraves | May 26, 2009 at 09:58 PM
Looks like a good time was had by all!
Awesome photos!
Posted by: she | May 27, 2009 at 12:23 AM
I would love to do a behind the scenes at our zoo!! What fun! I love your pictures.
I've only been to the San Diego Zoo once and that was in 1981, I'm betting things are different now!
Posted by: imom | May 27, 2009 at 11:24 AM
I'm glad you could make it!
Posted by: Mel, A Dramatic Mommy | May 27, 2009 at 05:08 PM
I wish we had a zoo like yours here. Ours is just not the same...by any stretch.
Posted by: JCK | May 29, 2009 at 11:55 PM