CLEVELAND — The ZooKeys program first debuted at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo back in the 1960s. Now, the zoo has just announced a “significant evolution” is coming soon with the new AdventureKeys option in partnership with KeyBank.
“AdventureKeys is an expansion on the program that now incorporates exclusive video messages from experts and expands from the Zoo to all five Cleveland Metroparks Nature Centers,” zoo officials announced Wednesday. “Children can collect new keepsake keys to unlock exclusive, educational messages specific to iconic zoo animals, the natural world and park landmarks and hidden gems.”
Guests can use their AdventureKey to activate messages at eight locations throughout the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, including animals like Western lowland gorillas, Masai giraffes and African elephants.
“Each AdventureKey location will feature several exclusive video messages revealing fun facts about animal species, the inside scoop on individual animals and a behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts,” officials said. “Later this fall, AdventureKeys will debut at all five Nature Centers located across the Emerald Necklace with additional locations to be announced at a later date.”
The new AdventureKeys program will debut at the opening of the zoo’s new Susie’s Bear Hollow habitat on Friday. Aug. 25.
The key features a unique gorilla design in homage of the zoo’s two youngest gorillas. Each year, a new key will be offered featuring a different animal. Keys are $2 and can be reused throughout the year. Only one key is needed to unlock all of the video messages.
“AdventureKeys is a significant evolution of the popular ZooKeys program, designed to encourage hands-on learning and fun at both Cleveland Metroparks and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo,” said Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer Kelly Manderfield.
ZooKeys were reintroduced back in 2017 as part of the Cleveland Zoo’s 100-year anniversary.
