Louisville Zoo Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Louisville Zoo is celebrating its 50th anniversary and invites everyone to join the fun on May 18-19 for the 50Fest!

Visitors can meet the new animal mascots, including a new rhino and giraffe, and grab photos with guest characters such as an elephant, lion and eagle. Plus, there will be games, a chance to participate in a community mural and anniversary treats (while supplies last).

You can also enjoy two new exhibits that opened in March: Colobus Crossing, featuring Colobus and red-tailed monkeys, and Snow Leopard Pass where newcomer Meru joins NeeCee and Kimti.

Both exhibits feature overhead passageways that intersect with guest walkways, so the animals may walk right over your head.

Opened in 1969, the Zoo currently exhibits more than 1,000 animals on 134 acres of natural settings including: Glacier Run, Africa, Islands, New World Exhibits (North, Central and South America), Australian Outback, the HerpAquarium and the Metazoo Education Center.

The Zoo’s award-winning Islands, Gorilla Forest and Glacier Run exhibits have been recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for excellence and innovation.

Plus, the Zoo’s educational programs have been recognized nationally.

In addition to the animals, the Zoo has multiple playgrounds, rides and attractions including the Splash Park, Conservation Carousel, Zoo trams, Zoo trains, adventure ropes courses, camel and pony rides, the Boma African Petting Zoo and gift shops.

Special events include Earth Month activities in April, weekend movie nights and character appearances, holiday events, the 5K Throo the Zoo Run/Walk and, of course, the annual “World’s Largest Halloween Party!”