Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has opened a new 4-D ride theatre.
Watch a movie as if you’re a part of it, with an “all senses” viewing experience. The ride, a simulator, makes your seat literally move in sync with the action as you watch the movie. The 4-D theatre is a temporary exhibit that will be featured at least through the fall of 2012, and possibly longer depnding on how popular it is.
The first movie the zoo decided to show, “Happy Feet: Mumble’s Wild Ride,” will allow you to feel as though you’re right alongside Happy Feet on his adventures. You’ll race down frozen cliffs in Antarctica and reach chilling speeds in the icy adventure movie. There will be everything from light sprays of water to bubbles to make you feel like you’re really there.
Zoo administrators thought it was especially fitting to kick off with the penguin movie because Tuxedo Bay — the zoo’s penguin exhibit — is such a hit.
“Since the opening of our penguin exhibit two years ago, penguins have become one of the most popular attractions at the Zoo,” said executive director Tony Vecchio. “It is great that our penguins are able to welcome Mumble and his friends here this summer. As our visitors have made it clear – you cannot have too many penguin experiences!”
The 4-D theatre is open from 9:30 a.m. until a half hour before closing time each day. The ride can fit up to 18 people at a time. Cost per ride is $3.00 for Zoo members and $4.00 for non-members. You must be at least 42” tall to ride.
If you want to go:
When: Daily starting at 9:30 a.m. and continuing until 30 minutes before closing time.
Cost: $3 for zoo members, $4 for non-members in addition to regular entry fee.
Where: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL
For more information and to watch a trailer of the current ride, go to jacksonvillezoo.org.
