As we celebrate 60 years in Grover Nelson Park, we’ve officially taken our next big step forward.
On March 26, we gathered alongside the community leaders, partners, and long-time supporters to celebrate the groundbreaking of A Bold Adventure. This is the most ambitious expansion in Abilene Zoo’s history!
A New Era for the Abilene Zoo
A Bold Adventure is a multi-phased expansion that will transform how our community experiences the zoo for generations to come. Phase One: Wild Encounters and Ferocious Eats will completely reimagine our Africa region and is scheduled for completion in late 2027.
This phase will introduce expanded habitats, new species, immersive guest experiences, and new spaces for our community to gather, learn, and connect with wildlife.
What’s Coming
An expanded rhino habitat will allow us to play a more active role in conservation efforts for the critically endangered black rhino, including participation in breeding programs through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The giraffe’s habitat will grow into a multi-species yard, where compatible species share the same landscape. Guests will experience this space from a new elevated boardwalk, bringing back the giraffe bridge exprience.
A new lion habitat will become a centerpiece of this expansion, featuring a C-130 Hercules aircraft installation, a tribute to Abilene’s connection to Dyess Air Force Base. The lion habitat will also include a small amphitheater for educational presentations and up-close viewing.
Right next to the lion habitat, a new two-story café will be the place where guests can gather, relax, cool off, and enjoy meals with views of the lion pride. A new event lawn will also create space for community programs, celebrations, and special events.
We will also welcome cheetahs and meerkats to the zoo. The meerkat habitat will feature interactive viewing bubbles, allowing guests to navigate through tunnels and pop inside the exhibit for a unique, up-close perspective. The cheetah habitat will offer a 360-degree view, including an elevated boardwalk and multiple ground-level viewing points.
More Than an Expansion
“This expansion represents an exciting step forward for the Abilene Zoo,” said Zoo Director Jesse Pottebaum. “A Bold Adventure will allow us to deepen our impact in wildlife conservation, create meaningful educational experiences, and provide new ways for our community to connect with animals and nature.”
But more than that, A Bold Adventure is an investment for the future, one that will inspire the next generation of wildlife advocates and families.
Be Part of The Adventure
For 60 years, we’ve been shaped by the support of our community. Now, as the next chapter begins, we invite you to be part of it.
Your support will help bring A Bold Adventure to life and ensure that we continue to inspire meaningful connections with wildlife for generations to come.
Follow the journey on our social media channels for construction updates as the vision becomes a reality. Members will get special sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes updates.
Learn more at abilenezoo.org/adventure
