With Renovations, Elmwood Zoo Aims To Become 'World Class' Institution

NORRISTOWN, PA — The next phase of Elmwood Park Zoo's future was unveiled recently with the completion of the animal hospital and sprawling new welcome center, each of which have been toted by structural engineers as world class improvements that will cement the zoo's place as an international attraction for the coming century.

The 37,000 square foot animal hospital is considered to be one of the best in the world, replete with viewing bays, indoor and outdoor recovery wards, a diagnostics lab, and an in-house pharmacy.

The welcome center features a massive entrance plaza, coffee shop, cafe, gift shop, and pathways that "evoke the zoo's natural surroundings," including unique paths and walkways that mimic the flow of Stony Creek.

“As a longtime supporter of the Elmwood Park Zoo, O&N is proud to contribute to this once-in-a-lifetime revitalization effort,” Anthony Naccarato, the chairman and CEO of structural engineering firm O’Donnell & Naccarato, told Patch. “With this incredible new facility, the Elmwood Park Zoo will continue to serve as a leading educational and cultural destination for its next 100 years.”

The zoo will officially celebrate the renovations during a ceremony on June 27. That event will coincide with the 100 year anniversary of the zoo, and mark the facility's lofty ambitions for the future.

Those ambitions will continue beyond the new welcome center and hospital, as the zoo is in the midst of a three-year plan to "transform" the grounds from a respected zoo to something unique on the world stage.

The zoo is looking to expand its 38-acre property, and new animals, expanded exhibits, and more unique visitor experience appear to be on the horizon.

Various interpretative exhibits touch on the zoo's century of history and its progress as it has grown into one of the most successful in the region.

The Center also features a tree house, sculptures of deer and a jaguar, various digital touch screens with quizzes and games, and various animal exhibits including native Pennsylvania turtles, golden lion tamarins, and black-footed ferrets.

Zoo members can get early access to the Welcome Center and hospital on Monday, June 24 through Wednesday, June 26. The grand opening for the public is at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 27.