AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Zoo is hosting its annual Senior Safari event on Sept. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is open to individuals ages 62 and older and features:

Animal encounters and time to explore the zoo
Vendor giveaways, including a free Akron Zoo tote bag
Free coffee
A lunch special in the zoo’s Komodo Kingdom Café
Activities and crafts
Live music by Hearts for Music, an orchestra whose members consist of children and adults with special needs

“With Senior Safari, seniors get the chance to enjoy a special day at the zoo while learning more about community services,” Akron Zoo’s Director of Marketing and Events Elena Bell told cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.

Tickets cost $7 and can be purchased online or at the door on the day of the event for guests aged 62 and older. The Akron Zoo offers free general admission on all general admission days, including Senior Safari, for licensed personal care attendants or aides who accompany guests needing assistance, as long as they show staff identification. This policy covers one attendant per paid guest, according to Bell.

A limited number of wheelchairs are available for free use, and several electric scooters can be rented for $27 per day. Rentals operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

“One of our slogans is that you belong at the Akron Zoo, and that includes our senior community. The Akron Zoo was the first zoo in Ohio to receive the Age-Friendly Seal of Approval from the Better Business Bureau. This recognizes that the zoo meets standards in three key areas—physical environment, customer experience, and marketing materials—ensuring accessibility and quality service for older adults at all times,” Bell said.

The zoo is open to the general public during the event.