It’s time for a revamp of our Paws On loop! This special area has seen generations of children and families learning and playing together – and we’re excited to create new memories together with more special experiences and theming. This area has not undergone a major renovation since 2009, making the coming changes especially exciting!
This does mean that this area will see some closures over the next few months. Our construction schedules may change slightly, but please keep these dates in mind:
This renovation includes general maintenance to this space like painting and repairing certain buildings, repairing the aquarium, resealing the water play area and updating landscaping. You can also look forward to incredible new elements as well:
Panther Passage: Previously the Upland Acres playground, this multi-level play structure will let our young guests roam, explore and play like never before. Don’t worry – the beloved gopher tortoise will be incorporated into this area!
Tiny Trails: Say goodbye to Sea Turtle Beach as we welcome a brand-new area dedicated to toddlers.
Bringing Back the Whale: Depending on how long you’ve called our area home, you may remember the days that the whale near our water play area worked. Once this area reopens, you’ll be able to experience this icon in a new way!
New Program Space: Guests of all ages will be able to learn and play with our staff and volunteers in a whole new way.
Refreshed Barnyard: You’ve probably already seen the new climbing bridges for our Nigerian dwarf goat herd, but we’ll be adding a new expanded chicken coop and some other features to keep our animal residents happy and healthy.
With all these changes in store, it may not be too surprising that this loop will feature a new name and a new theme once it reopens completely in October. The messaging behind this reimagined area will focus on the importance of conserving land for wildlife and people.
“The issues that wildlife are facing global – and in our own backyard,” said Amy Shea, Senior Manager of Interpretation and Guest Learning. “In Florida, species like panthers and black bears are struggling due, in part, to shrinking and fragmented habitat. These animals need room to roam, to find food and shelter, to find mates, to thrive.”
Protecting these spaces is essential to conservation success, Amy said. These landscapes also matter to people. We all benefit from nature, from time spent outdoors to providing clean air around us.
“Framing this area around conservation lands, places for people and animals to “wander,” allows us to bring these ideas to life,” Amy said. “It connects directly to our mission of helping wildlife and people thrive.”
For the latest information on openings and closings at our Zoo, including Paws On, please visit our website and social media platforms! Thanks as always for your support as we undergo these changes with the goal to improve your Zoo experience.
Last Admission: 4:15 PM
