Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined

We're Building for the Future
As the Little Rock Zoo celebrates its Centennial, we’re not just honoring our past—we’re investing in an even brighter future. One of the most exciting steps forward is Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined—a transformative initiative that’s rethinking the very way 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. The Lorikeet Building will be repurposed to host new animal species and interactive experiences. Our lemurs will enjoy a revitalized habitat, and the former spider monkey area will be transformed into a vibrant multi-species space—featuring one of our most eagerly awaited additions: the capybara.
Get ready to experience a Little Rock Zoo that’s more dynamic, accessible, and inspiring than ever before.
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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
What We're Building
This transformation represents a bold new chapter for the Zoo and will bring exciting updates, including:
- A reimagined entry plaza with a water feature, sculpture, and an updated design
- Three updated animal buildings with indoor dayroom viewing
- A refreshed lemur habitat with improved guest visibility
- A brand-new home for our giant anteaters
- The return of capybaras to the Little Rock Zoo
- A new species: squirrel monkeys!
- A relocated Aldabra tortoise habitat with new opportunities for guest interaction
Things to Expect During Your Visit
The Zoo will remain open during construction, but your visit may look a little different.
Please plan for:
- Temporary pathway adjustments and occasional detours
- Limited restroom access in the front plaza
- Construction noise, especially during demolition periods
- New signs throughout the Zoo to help guide you and keep you informed
To keep your visit safe and enjoyable:
- During construction, the Great Apes area will operate as a one-way path. Guests will still be able to view all of the Great Ape habitats—including orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas—before turning around and exiting the same way.
- Guest exits will be routed:
- The main path between Penguin and the Kudu habitats
- Through the Cheetah Outpost path
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.
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 phase does involve some construction noise, the primary tool being used is a concrete pulverizer, which is significantly quieter than traditional jackhammers. 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!
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.
- Animal Ambassador Theater Naming Rights – $1,000,000
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Lemur Habitat Naming Rights – $500,000
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New “MEW” Animal Ambassador Care Facility – $250,000
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Capybara/Squirrel Monkey Habitat Naming Rights – $250,000
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Anteater Habitat Naming Rights – $150,000
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Tortoise Habitat Naming Rights – $150,000
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New Plaza Waterfall Partner (two available) – $100,000
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Lemur Indoor Viewing Window Partner – $50,000
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Squirrel Monkey/Capybara Indoor Viewing Window Partner – $50,000
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Tortoise Feeding Station Partnership – $25,000
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Animal Encounter Station Partnership – $25,000
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Animal Habitat “Furniture” Partnership – $15,000
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Engraved Bench for New Entry Plaza – $10,000
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Large Engraved Stone – $5,000
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Medium Engraved Stone – $2,500
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Small Engraved Stone – $1,000
Ready to Make Your Mark?
If you’re interested in a naming opportunity or partnership as part of Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact us at ZooPartner@littlerock.gov or call 501-661-7208 to learn more about how you can help shape the future of the Little Rock Zoo.
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1 Zoo Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205
501-661-7200
Open Daily
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Last Admission 3:30 PM
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