The Challenge: Can we create an app that would enhance the guest's experience of the exhibits, increase engagement and keep visitors coming back to the Zoo?

The Solution: In collaboration with the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and the Richard King Mellon Foundation, we created a mobile app that zoo and aquarium visitors would enjoy both at the zoo and at home. The app contains an interactive map and Bluetooth capability that will show where the visitor is in the park. Visitors can play Zooreka! Trivia, or play Zoo Builder and create their own attractions. The app also connects to the Zoo's YouTube channel, and visitors can watch the Zoo's collection of 360-degree videos.

The Result: The app launched around Memorial Day weekend in 2017. The map that the team created in the app is now being used on the zoo's website and will be featured throughout the park. Media outlets like the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, WTAE and others have highlighted the app and the Pittsburgh Zoo's innovative approach to attracting and retaining visitors.

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