Celebrating 150 Years of the Cincinnati Zoo

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden celebrates the 150th anniversary of its opening in 2025. It has grown from humble beginnings into a world-renowned Zoo and Botanical Garden, earning the top spot in each category in multiple national polls. It has been my home for the past 50 years, so I’ve witnessed and participated in its growth and evolution. We’ve made incredible strides in wildlife conservation, deepening partnerships locally and globally to increase our impact and mobilize the Zoo community to support coexistence between humans and wildlife. We are nationally recognized as The Greenest Zoo in America, reducing our carbon footprint with major water, energy and waste savings. Our Lindner Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) is an industry leader in reproductive biology.

In our anniversary year, we will reflect on our rich history while running toward our bright future! There is much to be done as we continue the work of bringing people “close enough to care” about animals and the planet. Cincinnati has always been a Zoo town and for that we thank you and hope to see you soon at the Zoo!

Thane Maynard
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Director

History

The Zoological Society of Cincinnati was founded in 1873 and officially opened its doors in 1875, making the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden the second oldest Zoo in the United States. The Zoo’s original animal collection was very small, originally consisting of just eight monkeys, two grizzly bears, three deer, six raccoons, two elk, a buffalo, a hyena, a tiger, an alligator, a circus elephant, and over four hundred birds, including a talking crow. The Zoo was founded on 65 acres in the middle of the city, and since then has acquired some of the surrounding blocks and several reserves in Cincinnati’s suburbs.

In the Zoo’s 150-year history, there have been quite a few notable highlights:

Coming in 2025

During its 150th anniversary year, the Zoo will open several new habitats, including Siamang Point, Bear Ridge, Sea Otter Coast, and a new space for mixed primate species in Jungle Trails. These projects demonstrate the Zoo’s commitment to creating exceptional animal environments that inspire guests to connect with nature.

New World Primate

Opening spring 2025

Located near the main entrance of Jungle Trails, the New World Primates habitat will be home to three species – golden headed lion tamarin, white-faced saki monkey, and black howler monkey.

Siamang Point (Phase 2 of Elephant Trek)

Opening spring 2025

Siamang Point will be home to two Siamang gibbons, Asian small-clawed otters, and rhinoceros hornbill.

Bear Ridge

Opening fall 2025

In the middle of the area formerly known as Bear Hill, visitors will be able to see North American black bears.

Nature Exploration Area

Opening fall 2025

Located next to Bear Ridge, this area will be a place to rest, explore, and play in a natural setting.

Sea Otter Coast

Opening fall 2025

Sea Otter Coast will feature a massive underwater viewing area, while the upper areas will be redesigned to provide homes for black bears and other species native to North America.

Growing Our Impact