Toledo Zoo

A Tradition Rich in Toledo History...

A Local Treasure
It was a largely unnoticed gesture nearly a century ago - the donation of a single woodchuck to the City of Toledo's Parks Board. Little did anyone realize at the time that an institution would emerge that would become one of Toledo's most beloved and valuable treasures. With this single gift, The Toledo Zoological Gardens was started in 1900 and over the years has served as an enduring tradition for families and a source of pride for the entire community. From its rather ordinary beginnings, The Toledo Zoo has become an extraordinary success. Nationally recognized as one of the most comprehensive zoological institutions in the nation, The Toledo Zoo now serves as the top tourist attraction in the area and is the number one reason people visit Toledo. As such, the Zoo is highly regarded for its contribution to both the local economy and quality of life for the Toledo community.

A History of Change
Success for The Toledo Zoo was not arrived at easily, or overnight. From its earliest days, the Zoo faced enormous challenges. Uncertain financial circumstances frequently threatened its ability to operate, while changes to the natural world necessitated an increased role for the Zoo in working to preserve and protect the world's vanishing wildlife.

A city-run Zoo during much of its existence, the transfer of Zoo ownership to The Toledo Zoological Society, a private non-profit organization, in 1982 marked the beginning of a new era of improvements and progress. It was at this time a series of tax levies for operating expenses was approved by the residents of Lucas County. With a mindful eye on the past, as well as the future, the Zoological Society professionalized the management of the Zoo and developed a vision for the institution that can be seen in its operation today.

Although recent changes are widely apparent throughout the Zoo, the importance of its history is still in evidence. Five Spanish Colonial-style buildings that were constructed during the depression by the Works Progress Administration and the Federal Emergency Relief Act are still in use. These architecturally magnificent buildings help shape the character of the Zoo that is uniquely Toledo's.

Keeping Up with the Times
During the 1980s The Toledo Zoo introduced many exciting and significant improvements. Foremost among them, the African Savanna provided a stunning recreation of the plains and jungles of Africa. The now world-famous Hippoquarium - the first of its kind in the zoo world - was developed as part of the Savanna. More recently, the Kingdom of the Apes, exhibits for Siberian tigers, Asian sloth bears and African wild dogs have been added, as well as a renovated Aviary and the Primate Forest. Zoo Visitors are also welcomed by a new parking lot, entry complex, gift shop and a ramped pedestrian bridge over the Anthony Wayne Trail.
The popularity of the Zoo has increased dramatically over the last decade. Restored facilities, new exhibits and a concerted effort to address the needs of the visitor have resulted in an average attendance of 875,000 people each year, with over 1,000,000 visitors in 1988, 1994, and 1999. Special promotions such as the Lights Before Christmas capture the charm and character of the Zoo and have become traditions for Toledo families