Visitors to the Indianapolis Zoo Can Enjoy a "Tropical Adventure"

By Maura Giles

Indianapolis, IN - Visitors to the Indianapolis Zoo can take a break from the winter chill and step into a warm “Tropical Adventure” in the Hilbert Conservatory at White River Gardens, Jan. 17 through March 15, 2010. This will be the seventh year for a tropical-themed show in the Conservatory, which provides an oasis of warmth and color during Indiana’s most dreary months.

Brightly colored and aromatic tropical plants are featured in this exhibit, including palm trees, bromeliads, hibiscus, golden candle and delicate orchids. This lush, green and peaceful environment invites everyone to enjoy a respite from snow and ice and a chance to relax among some of nature’s most beautiful plants. In a chilly Indiana winter, it’s almost as good as traveling to a faraway island.

Tropical Adventure is free for members and included with regular Zoo admission – $8.50 for adults and $6.50 for seniors and children 2-12. Children ages 1 and under are free. Parking is $5.00. Hours in January and February are 9am to 4pm, Wednesdays through Sundays, closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Many of the plants will remain in place for the “Butterflies” exhibit, which begins March 21.

For more information, visit indianapoliszoo.com or call (317) 630-2001.

The Conservatory shows are supported through an endowment funded by the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation, Inc. The Indianapolis Zoo Art and Nature programming is supported by the Arts Council of Indianapolis and the City of Indianapolis.

About the Indianapolis Zoo

Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Association of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. The Indianapolis Zoo will empower people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things.

To view Indianapolis Zoo's web page on Zoo and Aquarium Visitor, go to:  http://www.zandavisitor.com/forumtopicdetail-19-Indianapolis_Zoo