The Hattiesburg Zoo is moving into the digital age and will soon be cashless, while simultaneously upping the price of admission.
Beginning March 1, the facility will only accept digital and card-based payments. This will apply throughout the zoo, including entry gates, at the facility’s train, inside the gift shop, and at the various food vendors’ locations.
According to a press release, the Hattiesburg Zoo has a reverse ATM on site for guests who bring cash. Cash will be transferred to a debit card, which can be used at any location that accepts MasterCard and Visa.
“We believe the change will enhance the overall experience for our guests,” Demetric Kelly, Hattiesburg Zoo director of retail and guest experience, said. “Becoming a cashless venue is also safer for our employees as they are not moving money throughout the facility or between the Zoo and bank.”
In addition to the cashless transition, zoo admission prices will increase by $2 per person. The price bump is expected to help cover rising operational costs, such as maintenance, staffing, and improvements to the zoo’s facilities and exhibits. Zoo officials encourage prospective patrons to purchase their tickets online as they are $2 cheaper than ones bought at the gate.
Online tickets can be purchased up to 9:00 a.m. on the same day of one’s visit. Additional ticket information, pricing, and hours of operation can be found here.