Dallas Zoo is scaling up! This past June, the zoo announced Wild Horizons. The $119 million development is a major, multi-phase expansion that brings immersive safari experiences, brand new habitats, and visitor areas to the Dallas Zoo.
Originally opened in 1888 and relocated in 1912, the 106-acre zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and offers numerous interactive attractions and experiences.
This year, the zoo plans to launch its “most ambitious undertaking in its history“.
Officials plan to break ground on the large-scale Wild Horizons development later this year. The key aspect of Wild Horizons is Safari Trail. As the first phase of the development, Safari Trails will encompass 15 acres of underutilized grounds that will feature an immersive setting, habitats, and interactive experiences.
The first phase introduces a 3,046-square-foot space for African penguins alongside a 2,700-square-foot habitat for flamingos – the latter modeled after a natural estuary. Furthermore, it will involve a new 5,160-square-foot cafe along with covered viewing shelters designed to get you closer to the animals.
“Guests will encounter African penguins and lesser flamingos in thoughtfully designed, immersive settings,” said Kari Streiber, Dallas Zoo president of marketing and communications. “The all-new penguin habitat will feature one of the largest flocks in the nation and offer multiple opportunities for close observation.”
The project will add five new buildings in total, setting the groundwork for a larger trail that eventually brings rhinos and cheetahs to the campus. Safari Trail will also see a new Elephant Great Room, temperature-controlled space for the herd.
“The Zoo’s current Wild Horizons capital campaign is the most ambitious undertaking in its history—a $119 million, multi-phased effort that will transform the Zoo into a leading destination for conservation, education, and community connection,” said Streiber.
According to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, Dallas Zoo officials aim to launch construction this October running through March of 2028.
