In the old days there was an annual concert held on what is now Zoo Montana grounds. The concert was an annual fundraiser, the money was used to help build this remarkable 70-acre botanical garden and zoological park. Zoo Montana was incorporated and established as a non-profit organization in 1982. There is no other comparable zoo within a 500-mile radius.
If you are on Interstate 90 take exit 443 (Billings, MT) and you will be on Zoo Drive. The exhibits have been constructed with natural habitat techniques. Each exhibit has been designed with care for the safety of the public and the comfort of the animals.
Students are always excited when they get to go to Zoo Montana. The zoo takes its education mission seriously. There are a number of trunks that can be rented and used in the classroom. http://www.zoomontana.org/education/offsite/educational-trunks/
The “Fantasy of Lights” is an Easter Seal fundraiser and is held at the zoo. The Holiday Light Display covers 2.5 miles that you can walk or drive through. Local merchants sponsor individual light displays. http://www.visitbillings.com/event-detail.php?id=637 The “Fantasy of Lights”, now “Zoo Lights” has become a traditional holiday event.
In 1998 my mother came to live with me. I bought a family membership at the zoo. We spent quite a bit of time walking the grounds and enjoying the exhibits. We would sit on the benches and watch the birds in the open aviary. One of our favorite haunts was to watch the otters as they played.
Over the years Zoo Montana has been able to add to their exhibits, and until recently was an accredited zoo. This year Zoo Montana lost their accreditation because of financial problems. They are now in the process of working to regain their standing. I feel Zoo Montana is a valuable part of our community.
