We have been Discovery Pass/Members for 20 years and the Zoo has always been an oasis for an hour or 1/2 day getaway. We have taken our kids and now grandkids to watch them marvel at a sleeping snow leopard, a mating elephant or a duck on the path. Over the past three years something has changed. The incessant construction has ruined the tranquillity (I know short term pain ...), an ongoing staff shortage, persistent parking challenges and then the closure of the back lot and gate this winter have all contributed to lowering our opinion of a great Calgary destination.
The greatest (worst) change has been in food service. While staff really try to make the experience bearable, it seems that management doesn't have a clue. The layout and design at Kitamba is a joke. Funnelling thousands of customers with trays of food and kids in tow through 4 tills but really only one narrow gate ruins the mood and the food. The Safari brunch, while always overpriced was at least terrific. Now the sparse and cold selection destroys a once treasured experience.
It seems that they are using the 'captured audience' approach to restaurant management. WE are there and don't have a choice - so what are we going to do. Well, we are taking a picnic every time we go (twice a month) until things improve.