We're Building for the Future

As the Little Rock Zoo celebrates its Centennial, we’re embracing a bold vision for the future with Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined—an exciting transformation that will reshape how you experience the Zoo for years to come.

We understand construction isn’t usually top of mind when planning a fun day out, so we want to make your visit as smooth as possible during this period of change. Thank you for your patience and support as we work to build an even better Zoo experience for everyone.

What to Expect During Your Visit

The Zoo will remain open throughout construction, but there are a few temporary changes to keep in mind:

Pathway adjustments and occasional detours to ensure guest safety and accommodate ongoing work
Limited restroom access near the front plaza only
Construction noise, especially during demolition phases
New directional signage throughout the Zoo to help guide you easily

Pathway Changes & Guest Flow Adjustments

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

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
- Through the Cheetah Outpost path

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. Please be aware that this phase will involve noticeable construction noise.

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

Zoo Map with Construction Updates

Watch Us Grow

This project is about more than construction—it’s about paving the foundation for the next generation of our conservation, education, and connection. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the first time, we’re grateful to have you with us on this journey. Stay tuned to our blog for updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and progress photos as we build the future of your Little Rock Zoo.

For all the details on the project, including timelines and what’s coming next, visit our Project Zoo Page.

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

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