'Unextinct' immersive experience comes to life at Columbus Zoo
Imagine discovering a portal to an alternate universe where the spirits of extinct animals still roam. This realm has become a reality for visitors to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
During "Unextinct," the zoo's new immersive experience, visitors of all ages can embark on an outdoors nighttime journey filled with vivid illusions, dramatic effects and enlightening narrative as they learn about extinct species and endangered animals on the verge of extinction.
The event will run from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays through April 6, then Fridays and Saturdays through April 27. An adults-only night will take place April 12. Guests can also take the experience up a notch by attending a VIP Night presented by Dr. Pepper on April 6 and April 20 at the zoo's Lakeside Lounge.
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Created by former Disney imagineers from Mangolin Creative, the after-hours experience combines art, education, entertainment and environmental awareness to shed light on the importance of wildlife conservation.
Unextinct attractions
As the zoo's animals settle in for the evening, "Unextinct" will come alive with a wonderland of attractions including:
Fifteen areas to explore illusions of more than 70 extinct and endangered species
Assorted entertainment in the zoo's entry plaza
An LED bar offering cocktails, s’mores and shopping
The 1914 Mangels/Ilions carousel and the 4D theater
Zoo animals are not a part of this experience. Areas such as Adventure Cove, Asia Quest and Discovery Reef Aquarium will be accessible throughout the event, but animal viewing in any area is not guaranteed.
Guests also should be aware that "Unextinct" is a separately ticketed event not included with zoo admission.
General admission to "Unextinct" costs $28.99 for ages 10 and older and $25.99 for children ages 3-9. Upgrade to a premium ticket for $38.99 and receive an interactive glow bracelet and souvenir cup.
The Columbus Zoo recommends that visitors pay in advance for parking, which costs $10. Zoo members receive free parking and $4 off admission prices.
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An additional fee applies to some activities and the availability of activities is subject to change.
"Unextinct" is intended to be followed in a specific order; volunteers will on hand to guide guests in the right direction. For a preview of what to expect, visit your Apple or Google Play store to download the zoo's free mobile app, where you'll find each feature of "Unextinct" and conservation information about each animal you'll see.
To view the "Unextinct" calendar, purchase tickets, read about the featured species and find other information, visit columbuszoo.org/unextinct.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: 'Unextinct' immersive experience opens at the Columbus Zoo
