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Capital Projects

Since 1926, the Alexandria Zoo has been an integral part of our community. Today our Zoo is the largest family-oriented tourist attraction in this part of the state, and it should be one of the top five places to visit in Cenla!

The fact is - the Zoo impacts our local economy tremendously with fifty thousand to seventy-five thousand out of town visitors annually, and entertains international visitors regularly. It's where local families bring relatives and guests from out of town for summer visits and holidays.

Expansion and renovation of Alexandria Zoo will positively impact economic development in our community. The Zoo is a quality of life component in our community and it affects businesses' and families' decisions to locate here.

You can keep the Alexandria Zoo strong and growing. Join FOTAZ and stay involved in your Zoo... because it's good for everyone!

Land of the Jaguar

 Currently in the conceptual stage is "Land of the Jaguar" - a renovation of the South American area which encompasses approximately one-third of developed zoo acreage. This thematic exhibit is being funded through a $2 million SPARC grant, the City of Alexandria, and your contributions to FOTAZ.

The visitors will be immersed in a unique environment created with giant rocks, rivers, waterfalls, lush vegetation and South American structures as they journey through the Mayan ruins of Central America, the Amazon rainforests, and end up at the edge of the Andes Mountains.

The old zoo kitchen will be transformed into a flooded Amazonian hut where visitors can view reptiles like crocodiles, caimans, boas, and anacondas plus some spine-tingling giant spiders and other little creatures.

Giant anteaters and coatimundis along with select birds and primates will be added to the Zoo's already extensive South American animal collection.

Festival Plaza

 Fun, Music and Education - Key elements to implementing the Zoo's mission - come alive at the Festival Plaza and Performing stage. After Hurricane Gustav roared through Cenla in 2008, the mature oaks were so extensively damaged that the area was left without shade. Special events and other activities are held regularly in this space, so future plans to update the stage and entertainment area turned into an immediate concern. After expectations and demands were identified, a plan was created for the Entertainment Plaza.

Now you can join the City of Alexandria and FOTAZ to create a beautiful, brick-lined memorial plaza and be forever recognized at this great family venue. Once the plan is finalized, FOTAZ will begin selling bricks and pavers suitable for engraving. Lots of folks "belong in a zoo", now is your chance to put them there!

African Experience: Phase II

 African Experience: Phase II will be located in the northwest corner of the Zoo, between the old city swimming pool and Babe Ruth Drive, will feature exciting new species such as giraffes, zebras, pygmy hippos, leopards, antelope, monkeys and more. A boat ride through the exhibit will be an alternate way to view the animals.

Like the Louisiana Habitat Exhibit, The African Experience was designed with a basic cultural and animal theme to attract tourists. It will enhance the zoo-goers' adventure by allowing the individual to become immersed into the surroundings. An area under an African-themed pavilion is also available for rental for private parties, etc.

The African Experience conceptual plan was developed by Zoo Director, Les Whitt, and the David L. Manwarren Corporation of California.

Playground Area Renovation & Expansion

It's time for a playground renovation! This popular play area for kids and rest area for adults, was installed in 1997. Renovation of this southwest corner of the Zoo between Babe Ruth Drive and Cotton Wright Drive, will include a new picnic pavilion for parties, events and rentals, a secured vending area for drink and food machines, updated restrooms, and the addition of play equipment suitable for a more diverse age group. The introduction of a water feature such as a brook for wading, will encourage adult participation as well. By incorporating natural elements, kid friendly landscaping, recycled materials, and composite structures, this renovation will spark new interest in exploring the wonders of nature as a family.

Contributions to FOTAZ will help this become a reality.