Rhode Island Monthly Summer Guide 2020 | Page 45

A Fun-Filled Day at ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO Whether you are a parent with little ones, a grandparent looking for a sunny day outing or someone planning a date, Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence has something for everyone. ROAM THE ZOO – A HOME FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES When you visit Roger Williams Park Zoo, you are helping to bolster the conservation work that the zoo staff performs daily trying to save species around the world. A visit with African elephants or Masai giraffes, a walk down the Marco Polo trail to visit moon bears, snow leopards and red pandas or a stop for a visit with a Komodo dragon or Matschie’s tree kangaroo means you and your family are learning about the plight of species from all corners of the Earth. Step into the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit and experience a tropical paradise right here in Rhode Island with a free-flying aviary, a water slide for giant otters, a variety of primates (including Saki, Howler and Titi monkeys), an array of marine life, interesting amphibians and intriguing reptiles. Plus, while engaging with the animals, learn how you can be a FACE of the rainforest. MEET THE ZOO’S NEWEST RESIDENT From now through Labor Day, the zoo will welcome Snowflake, a white alligator from Florida, into its diverse community. These alligators are extremely rare — in fact, biologists estimate that there are only about 100 albino alligators in the world. Snowflake will be residing in the zoo’s Green House at the end of the Wetlands Trail. Come meet Snowflake and learn interesting and exciting things about a species that has roamed the earth for millions of years. EXPLORE AND SOAR IN THE AIR, UNDER THE SEA AND ON THE GROUND No zoo visit is complete without a stop at Explore and Soar to enjoy animal encounters, virtual reality experiences, a train ride and the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride. The whole family will flip over meeting armadillos up close and learning about their habits and habitats. Experience a world both under and on the water with the zoo’s new virtual reality experi- ences, Swimming with Humpbacks and Drift. Then, fly 115 feet in the air and get a bird’s eye view of the zoo on the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride. And don’t forget to get some ice cream on your way out! Did You Know? The Southern Black Howler monkey noises can be heard almost two miles away in the forest and three miles away over water. This loud volume is a result of the monkey's deep jaw, enlarged larynx and hyoid apparatus. Hear them for yourself at the zoo's Faces of the Rainforest exhibit. Can't-Miss Happenings SATURDAY, JUNE 13: WARWICK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Enjoy the delightful sounds of the Warwick Symphony Orchestra as they perform live, and for free, at the zoo. SATURDAY, JUNE 27: ZOOBILEE — FEAST WITH THE BEASTS   Enjoy fine fare from dozens of the area’s best restaurants and caterers, fabulous entertainment including live music and dancing and other fun surprises. This is an adults-only evening event (twenty-one and older). Your ticket includes all food tastings and hydration stations and cash bars will be available. WEDNESDAY, JULY 22: BEACH BALLS AND BUBBLES This is your chance to celebrate all things summer and have a BALL! SATURDAY, AUGUST 29: BREW AT THE ZOO Beer lovers, take notice: This adults-only (twenty-one and older) outdoor festival will offer the opportunity to taste autumn brews and hard ciders on Saturday, August 29. Patrons will Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to more than 100 different species of animals (including the Matschie's tree kangaroo cutie shown above!), many of whom are on the endangered or threatened species list. It’s the zoo’s goal to ensure these species survive and thrive while also teaching guests more about them. also enjoy live music from the popular band NITEFLIES, participate in animal encounters and revel in one of New England’s largest outdoor beer festivals. For more information please visit rwpzoo.org. ➥ Visit Roger Williams Park Zoo's website for a full comprehensive list of summer happenings at the zoo. YOUR ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE 2020     43