KNOXVILLE, Tenn — Zoo Knoxville was free for dad on Sunday for Father's Day.
It's an annual tradition at the zoo, but things were a little different this year.
Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, guests must buy tickets online in advance. Father’s got free admission with a paid adult or child ticket using the promo code FATHERSDAY at check out.
In addition to limiting the number of guests at the zoo, guests were encouraged to wear masks and maintain a safe social distance from other groups.
"You know, being a dad has all of its ups and downs. Those sleepless nights and things like that, but being here with my dad and getting to share this special moment, you know her first time at the zoo is amazing," said Joshua Kelly, who took his daughter for her first visit to the zoo with his dad.
The zoo is in Phase Two of its reopening plan, which means the Safari Splash water play area is open. The giraffe feeding is back open, and there's expanded access to the award-winning Boyd Family Asian Trek which is home to Gibbon Trails and Langur Landing, and indoor viewing in the Tiger Temple, elephant barn and langur day room.