With gas prices rising and the costs of flying adding up, this summer just might be an opportune time to spend a few vacation hours revisiting some local spots of interest. Whether folks want to learn about the past, indulge in a cultural experience or romp around outside, Fort Dodge has plenty to offer that won’t lay waste to the pocketbook. The following are just a few options. Outdoors & Recreation • The Oleson Park Zoo was built in the 1950s and recently renovated to provide a home for a variety of animals. Different exotic animals are added each season to give people a chance to see unusual critters, such as sloths, wallabies and coatamundi. The petting zoo area is open from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. • Snell-Crawford Park, Williams Drive and 12th Avenue, offers woods and a stream. It also offers a disc golf course, three sand volleyball courts, play equipment and picnic tables and grills.