Most zoos have picnic areas where you can break for lunch, but it's a good idea to call ahead.
Recipes
We've chosen recipes specially suited for a day with the animals.
"Just a good old fashioned, down home potato salad recipe that brings back memories of picnics in the park and family gatherings." -- JOSLYN, recipe submitter
Bring the Crew to the Zoo
Here are some tips for making the most of your excursion:
• Call ahead to learn if and when you can see animals being fed.
• Check for guided tours, special exhibits, or presentations. Has a baby animal made a recent debut? Is there a petting zoo area?
• Put on a scavenger hunt--draw up a list of things to find including creatures, plants, words, structures, other visitors (spot a person wearing leopard-print clothes), and so on.
• Make a plan for finding each other if someone gets lost in the crowd.
• If possible, schedule your visit for a mild day--just like people, many animals retreat from extremes of cold and heat.
"Basic and sun-dried tomato add flavor and zing to this simple yet delicious pasta salad recipe. It's perfect for picnics." -- kgwen, recipe submitter
"This is a quick and fun snack that kids will enjoy making and eating. For once kids can play with their food." -- VEROS01, recipe submitter