They appear in books, from early literature to modern novels. You see them in movies, video games, and interact with them in mega bestselling tabletop role-playing game like Dungeons & Dragons. They are pop culture icons. Dragons are considered mythical creatures, which means that they do not exist, though some belief otherwise. Images of dragons have been depicted in the art of ancient cultures dating as far back as 6000 BC. But whether dragons are real or not isn’t even the point. Dragons have been in existence in the human imagination seemingly forever and will continue to do so. But why?
Dragons are both revered and reviled. Some experts say they were created as an idealistic symbol for the strength and might of a nation, or as an incarnation of the enduring power of nature, and even as the perfect villain to pit against a heroic figure. Carl Sagan wrote that the myth of the dragon may have evolved as part of the human evolutionary response to real predators. The fact is dragons are just really cool. They vary quite a bit in size, anatomical structure, magic abilities, and ferocity. And they’re monsters, although they have also been portrayed as benevolent, that’s how diverse dragons are. They really can be however we choose to envision them.
Yes, dragons are seemingly everywhere, and now they are at Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village beginning on April 7. Not only will there be dragons on display for visitors to marvel over, but mermaids, unicorns, griffins, the serpent-like wyvern, the mysterious kraken, the Loch Ness Monster, and other magical creatures will also be present. These creatures are all being featured in the new Roger Williams Park Zoo exhibit, Dragons & Mythical Creatures.
In total, there are sixty life-size dragons and other mythical creatures of lore to encounter. In this stunning animatronic display, these beasts will move, roar, and breathe smoke for their audiences. This is an immersive, interactive experience that is perfect for all ages, requiring only imagination.
Engage your senses and ignite your curiosity while strolling through this interactive experience, the folks at Roger Willams Park Zoo & Carousel Village urge the public. Learn about the myths and legends that have shaped these captivating creatures, discover the scientific inspirations behind their fantastical forms, and participate in interactive activities that will leave you feeling like a true adventurer.
The Dragons & Mythical Creatures exhibit will require a separate ticket purchase in addition to the regular zoo admission. This add-on experience will cost $9 for those two years and older, $7 for RWPZ members, and free for toddlers 1 and under. Group discounts are available, with ten or more guests receiving $2 off the regular admission price. School groups receive an even more magical discount https://www.rwpzoo.org/groups/.
Other dates to keep in mind; on the following Sundays, May 19, June 16, and July 7, from 8 AM – 9 AM, (before the exhibit opens to the public) a special sensory-friendly tour of the trail will be open for those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences and their families.
Also, as part of Dragon Family Fun Nights, on Saturday June 8 and Saturday August 10, an exclusive after-hours exploration of the zoo’s carousel village where dragons and mythical beasts roam will be made available for all guests. Between the hours of 5 PM and 9 PM, families can observe how these creatures behave at dusk when the sun goes down.
The Dragons & Mythical Creatures exhibit will open every day at 9 AM with last entry onto the trail at 3:30 PM. Proceeds from the attraction will be used to support the Zoo’s ongoing animal care, education programs and conservation initiatives.
While the Dragons & Mythical Creatures exhibit begins on April 7th, these fabulous beasts will not be at the Roger Williams Park Zoo forever. They fly away on August 11, so book now and get transported to a world where anything is possible. You may purchase tickets online https://www.rwpzoo.org/dragons/
Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village 1000 Elmwood Avenue in Providence.
