@DavidBrown Of the exactly 421 different 'zoos' that I've visited, this place is the absolute nadir of all my trips. The fake gift shop didn't add anything to the attraction.
@DavidBrown I can actually see this building being replaced with a small museum highlighting riparian and wetland ecosystems, maybe with otters, beavers, longnose gar, alligator gar, various waterfowl, herons, etc. As for the abandoned outdoor tank, that could very well be retrofitted for cougars or black bears, complete with underwater viewing. As is, this is a downright odd facility. Did anything live here? Or is this like the preserved shark in that one abandoned wildlife park in Australia?
@Wyman I've been curious about the history of this place and haven't found out much. Reading through the Yelp and other online reviews is a hilarious experience. People describe it as being something out of a 1980s horror movie. Apparently they have a scam going where they charge people hundreds of dollars to catch a few trout. It sounds like the place should be shut down and bulldozed.
@DavidBrown After reading this review, I'm intrigued:
John Kruzich (on Google Reviews) said:
Never, Ever go here. No matter if you read a few fake 4 or 5 star reviews.
This place is a total scam set up to rip you off, point blank.
I actually fled the property in fear of my children's safety and my own .
The fact that the local law enforcement, city, and courts allow this place to operate is disgusting in every way .
It's a huge black eye for the dells area . STY AWAY¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@birdsandbats Yeah, I probably should have posted a link. Still, hopefully the video as well as Ripley's Believe It or Not! edify things for you as much as possible.