Abilene Zoo Planning “A Bold Adventure” Expansion

ABILENE, TX — The Abilene Zoo is launching the largest expansion in its 60-year history.

Zoo officials broke ground this week on “A Bold Adventure,” a redevelopment at Grover Nelson Park that will introduce new animal habitats, interactive attractions and educational spaces. The project coincides with the zoo’s 60th anniversary and is expected to be completed in phases, with the first phase targeted for late 2027.

Phase 1, titled Wild Encounters and Ferocious Eats, will focus on expanding exhibits and creating new guest amenities. Plans include a larger habitat for critically endangered black rhinos, enabling the zoo to participate in breeding efforts through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan.

The expansion will also significantly enhance the zoo’s African exhibits. A redesigned giraffe habitat will become a multi-species savanna, allowing compatible animals to share space. Visitors will be able to observe the animals from an elevated boardwalk, reviving a popular giraffe viewing experience.

A new lion habitat will serve as a central feature of the project, incorporating a C-130 Hercules aircraft as a tribute to Abilene’s ties to Dyess Air Force Base. The exhibit will include a small amphitheater for educational programs, offering close-up views of the lions.

Additional species, including cheetahs, meerkats and hyenas, will join the zoo’s collection, expanding opportunities for education and conservation awareness.

The project will also introduce several family-oriented features, including a two-story café overlooking the lion exhibit, an event lawn for community gatherings, interactive meerkat viewing areas for children and a cheetah habitat with both elevated and ground-level viewing paths.

Zoo Director Jesse Pottebaum described the expansion as a significant milestone for the institution.

“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,” Pottebaum said.

Zoo officials said they will continue to share construction updates and behind-the-scenes content online as the project progresses. For more information, visit the zoo’s website here.