Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined

We’re Building for the Future

As the Little Rock Zoo celebrates its Centennial, we’re not only honoring our rich history but also investing in a brighter future. A key part of this vision is Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined—a transformative initiative that’s reshaping how guests experience the Zoo.

This ambitious project begins with a complete reimagining of our front entrance and nearby animal habitats. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by a updated entry plaza and a revitalized amphitheater space, all designed to create a more inviting, engaging, and accessible experience for every guest.

But that’s just the beginning.

We’re updating and expanding several key habitats to bring you closer to the animals you love. This transformation will bring a range of enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience and support animal care, including:

A refreshed entry plaza with updated features
Renovations to several animal spaces, including improved indoor viewing opportunities
Habitat upgrades for better visibility and engagement
New spaces for both returning favorites and new species
Expanded opportunities for up-close animal interactions

Get ready to experience a Little Rock Zoo that’s more dynamic, accessible, and inspiring than ever before.

Things to Expect During Your Visit

The Zoo will remain open during construction, but your visit may look a little different.

Please plan for:

New signs throughout the Zoo to help guide you and keep you informed
Temporary pathway adjustments and occasional detours
Limited restroom access in the front plaza
Construction noise, especially during demolition periods

Pathway Changes & Guest Flow Adjustments

To keep your visit safe and enjoyable, please note the following:

Through the Cheetah Outpost path

The Great Apes area will have a temporary turnaround route. Guests can still view all great ape habitats—including orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas—before retracing their steps.
Guest exits will be routed:
The main path between Penguin and the Kudu habitats

Limited Restroom Access in the Front Plaza

During the initial phase of construction—while the mushroom structure is being removed and walkways in the Front Plaza are resurfaced—only the single-stall family restroom will be available in the entry area. This portion of the project is expected to last 3–4 weeks.

During this time, the nearest full restroom facilities will be located at the stone bathrooms between the elephant and tiger habitats, or at Café Africa. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we work to reopen this space as soon as we can.

Construction Noise

We know construction noise isn’t anyone’s favorite soundtrack—but it’s a temporary step toward a stronger, more sustainable Little Rock Zoo.

To transform the former lemur and spider monkey habitats, crews will pulverize the existing concrete moats and reuse the material to fill and stabilize the area—recycling on-site resources instead of sending them to a landfill. This approach helps reduce waste and lays the groundwork for exciting new animal experiences. While this equipment is quieter than traditional jackhammers, please be aware that this phase will involve noticeable construction noise. A hammer attachment may be used occasionally for extra-thick concrete sections.

Thank you for your patience. We appreciate your understanding as we build a future worth celebrating!

We appreciate your patience and support as we improve your Zoo experience!

Project Overview

Construction begins this June, and we’re excited to bring you along every step of the way. This page is your behind-the-scenes pass to the transformation—featuring project updates, construction timelines, and sneak peeks at what’s coming next to your Little Rock Zoo.

Phase I: Preparation and Fencing (June 2025)

Construction fencing will go up the week of June 9, 2025, after animals are relocated out of the construction zone.
Renderings and diagrams of the future layout will be added to the construction fence.
Fencing will enclose:
- Pathways alongside the lemur habitat
- The area behind the Nature Playground
- The Mushroom structure in the front plaza

Phase II: Plaza Resurfacing & Structure Removal (Mid June – July 2025)

Removal of the Mushroom and damaged sidewalks near the restrooms begins. The Carousel is expected to remain open during this phase of construction. If any changes to its operation become necessary, they should occur during this phase only. We’ll keep you informed of any updates.
Estimated Timeline: 3–4 weeks for demolition and new concrete pouring.
Once complete:
- All front plaza restrooms will reopen

The Mushroom structure—an iconic part of the Zoo’s history—will be taken down to make way for a modern entry experience. Sidewalk repairs will offer smoother, more accessible pathways for guests.

Phase III: Major Demolition & Site Work (July 2025 – Fall 2025)

Crushing of existing concrete to fill and stabilize the old lemur and spider monkey moats
Estimated timeline: 3–4 months
Equipment and noise:
- Primary tool: Pulverizer (quieter than standard jackhammers)
- Hammer attachment used sparingly for thick concrete sections

The old spider monkey and lemur habitats will be transformed as part of our commitment to building a more sustainable Zoo. Existing concrete will be crushed and reused to fill and stabilize the area, reducing waste and preparing the ground for exciting new animal experiences. This phase recycles the old to make way for the future.

Phase IV: Construction Period (Fall 2025 – Fall 2026)

This phase includes the full build-out of new habitats, guest amenities, and entry enhancements
Approximate timeline: 10 months
- Subject to weather and final design decisions

With groundwork complete, full-scale construction can begin on the Zoo’s reimagined entry experience. Over the next several months, guests will see the transformation take shape—from new building structures to pathways and landscaping. This phase brings the vision to life and lays the foundation for a more welcoming, immersive, and engaging Zoo entrance for all.

Project Timeline

Complete Timeline Estimate: 14-18 months

Subject to weather and final design decisions

This transformative project will revitalize the Zoo’s entry experience with updated pathways, enhanced habitats, and new animal species. Construction is expected to take approximately 14 to 18 months, beginning in June 2025 and continuing through fall 2026.

We Can’t Do It Without You

This is more than a construction project—it’s a community movement to reimagine what the Zoo can be. With your support, we’ll create an even wilder, more welcoming space for all.

Donate

Help Us Build the Future of Your Zoo

Be a part of this exciting transformation! Your support helps create state-of-the-art habitats, unforgettable guest experiences, and a stronger future for wildlife.