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:

  • Construction noise, especially during demolition periods
  • New signs throughout the Zoo to help guide you and keep you informed
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!

Pathway Changes & Guest Flow Adjustments

The Zoo remains open during construction, but your visit may look a little different. To keep your experience safe and enjoyable, please note the following:

  • Access to the Great Apes area will be available through the entrance next to the orangutans. A temporary turnaround route will be in place, allowing guests to view all great ape habitats—including orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas—before retracing their steps.
  • The only animals affected by this project are the lemurs. They’ve been temporarily moved to the same building as the Colobus Monkeys and rotate through the exhibit separately.
  • Guest exits will be routed:
    • The main path between Penguin and the Kudu habitats
    • Through the Cheetah Outpost path

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.

Little Rock Zoo

1 Zoo Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205

501-661-7200

Hours of Operation
9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Last admission 3:30 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 4:00 pm

Directions

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Thanks to Our Sponsors

Arkansas Zoo Foundation
Hiland Dairy Foods
Vines / Brookshire