Support Us Button Widget

Enter the zoo in a whole new way

We’re sharing how the Indianapolis Zoo transformed its public entry to be a more streamlined + an educational experience for first-timers and members alike.

Outside the Hilbert Conservatory at the Indianapolis Zoo

The gardens will be in full-bloom when you step inside the new entry this weekend.

Photo by INDYtoday team

The Indianapolis Zoo will be opening its newly renovated doors to the public for the first time this Saturday, May 27.

Now, you’ll enter the colorful White River Gardens as soon as you walk through the gates, with greetings from “Wild Encounter” animal ambassadors like Colt the blue macaw, Chris the 35-year-old tortoise, and a sleepy sloth.

After that, you can choose to stroll through the Hilbert Conservatory and wait for butterflies to land on you or walk into the next area, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts + become immersed in a 360-degree video series.

Field trippers (and chaperones) will probably notice a lot less crowding as kids wait to go through the gate, thanks to a much larger main area.

We were invited to a sneak preview of the updated entry, so if you want to see what we’re talking about, check out our Instagram reel.

More from INDYtoday
The 16th annual edition of Small Business Saturday falls on November 29 — the perfect time to help you add a local sparkle into your holiday shopping.
Ready to live your Nancy Kerrigan or Michelle Kwan fantasy? Here are some local ice skating rinks where you can polish your skills (or barely scoot along — we get it).
Explore a variety of enchanting wedding venues around Indianapolis with our comprehensive guide. From rustic historic buildings to elegant ballrooms, we make it easy for you to discover the perfect location for your dream wedding.
This year, igloo pop-ups at local bars and restaurants are all the (icy-hot) rage. Here are a few you can try for yourself.
Saunas are no longer just about sweating it out — they’re becoming Indy’s newest way to unwind, socialize, and network.
Avril Lavigne? Check. Keith Urban? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
“Wicked: For Good” hits theaters on Friday, Nov. 21. Here’s how we’d spend one short day in the Circle City just like Elphaba and Glinda.
Warm your hands and heart with these soulful, hearty soups around the Circle City that are perfect served on a cold winter day.
If you feel inspired to run, walk, or trot as the weather starts cooling down, check out these seasonal struts happening around Indy.
The Clowns are returning to Indy after more than 35 years. Here’s how they originally got to the Circle City, plus some fun trivia facts to impress your friends.