Kids, Adults Welcome at Niabi Zoo Sensory Inclusion Day

Niabi Zoo will be closed to the general public on Wednesday, April 27th to host its Sensory Inclusion Day.

The event will be during the zoo's normal operating hours: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The goal of the event is to create a safe place for those with unique sensory or neurosensory needs (such as autism) to fully enjoy all that the zoo has to offer.

You can only get into Niabi Zoo's Sensory Inclusion Day by obtaining a flyer. If you would like one, you should reach out to Frankie Byczynski (Randle) at frandle@balanceautism.org.

Admission Rates are these:

• Adults (ages 13-61): $9
• Seniors (ages 62+): $8
• Military (all active personnel): $8
• Children (ages 3-12): $6.50
• Children (ages 2 and under): Free

It's the first Sensory Inclusion Day for the zoo and they will use it to gauge interest in such events going forward. They will also reference the inaugural event to figure out the best scheduling practices and event improvements for more community-inclusive events in the future. The zoo says the Sensory Inclusion Day event is private, reserved for those with sensory issues and their families.

The zoo will be back open to the public on Thursday from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., which are its operating hours daily. Niabi Zoo is at 13010 Niabi Zoo Rd. in Coal Valley. Tip: if you would like to save a bit of money on a ticket to the zoo, get your tickets before 9:00 a.m. the day of your visit. Also, bring a mask as there are a few places that they are required.