Hitch a ride to the Detroit Zoo on the SMART bus

Sarah Rahal | The Detroit News

The Detroit Zoological Society, in partnership with the bus system SMART, is offering an eco-friendly transit option for visitors through September.

The Zoom to the Zoo program launched in June with riders taking the SMART Fast Woodward express to get to the zoo in Royal Oak.

Each visitor who rides the bus to the zoo will get a $2 discount on zoo admission, a wristband for free fountain drinks during their visit and a free return bus ride as part of the program. Guests who take the SMART bus with prepaid admission tickets also will receive a free ride on the wildlife Carousel.

“This is a great way to improve accessibility for guests who may have trouble getting to the zoo and it also eases the challenges associated with traffic, parking and construction — especially with the I-696 closure,” Ron Kagan, zoo executive director and CEO said in a news release. “The best part is that by riding SMART, zoo visitors can both save money and reduce their carbon footprint.”

One bus has the potential to eliminate 60 vehicles on the road, according to SMART, Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider.

“Outstanding improvements are being made to animal habitats at the zoo, which is financially supported by all three counties. SMART is also committed to improving transit options that serve the people of all three counties,” said John C. Hertel, SMART general manager.

The SMART FAST Woodward express service is available every day. Forinformation about hours, routes, park-and-ride opportunities, visit smartbus.org.