The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is ready to reopen its gates after two major blizzards caused a tremendous amount of damage to buildings and animal housing.

As I have written in multiple posts about these blizzards, the heavy snow caused damage to many homes, and hurt the Baltimore real estate market. It also has hurt Baltimore businesses and tourist attractions both with their buildings, and the fact that the damage in the zoo’s case, forced them to remain closed for an additional two weeks to repair and remove snow from walkways and the like.

The Baltimore Business Journal reports that the damage to the zoo could top $2.5 million, a hit to the attraction that is already having financial woes.

Tickets for the weekend of March 13-14 will be reduced to $5 to celebrate its’ reopening, and hopefully entice many visitors to come see the animals. Some exhibits may not be open, or they may be modified (for example, the giraffes will not be outside, but can be viewed in their inside habitat) due to the still snowy, cold & muddy conditions, or damage to the area.

After the opening weekend, ticket prices will be $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for children on weekdays, and $16 adults, $13 seniors, and $11 children on weekends.

Coming up on March 20th is the popular Samson the elephant’s SECOND birthday party from 11 am-1 pm. It is hard to believe he is now TWO!

So come on down to the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore to support and help them rebuild — just by coming to visit the animals and enjoy the beautiful surroundings in Druid Hill Park.

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is located in Druid Hill Park in Baltimore, 21217. The hours once open are 10 am – 4 pm. For more information, call 410-366-LION (5466).