Zoo Runs
Races that pass through zoos can offer a very attractive venue for runners. Animals provide unusual scenery and runners can enjoy a longer visit - perhaps with family members - after the race.
The Binder Park Zoo, one of the midwest's finest, in Battle Creek MI, offers a course through its animal-friendly confines.
Zoos in St. Louis MO, Chicago IL, Milwaukee WI, Detroit MI, Cleveland OH, and Louisville KY are only a few of the many that open their gates to race competitors.
Runners complain, though, that some zoo runs don't meet quality standards and they sometimes charge unreasonably high entry fees.
If you are producing a run in the zoo, don't let the marketing benefits cause you to overlook logistical needs.
As far as money is concerned, many more runners will stick around after the race if it is at a zoo. They'll pay admission (very few are free), buy refreshments and maybe lunch, and purchase souvenirs, especially if they have children with them.
Zoos are likely to benefit financially while garnering a lot of publicity from the runs they produce and sponsor, so don't soak runners on the entry fee.