Potawatomi Zoo
Potawatomi Zoo Concession Lodge and Bear HabitatPotawatomi Zoo
Potawatomi Zoo Concession Lodge and Bear Habitat
Since its opening in 1921, the Potawatomi Zoo has been a popular entertainment and educational destination for generations of families and schoolchildren. One of the oldest zoos in Indiana, its popularity has reached new heights in recent years thanks to an ongoing revitalization project that saw record-breaking attendance of nearly 300,000 visitors in 2022, an increase of almost 100,000 over 2019.
Since its opening in 1921, the Potawatomi Zoo has been a popular entertainment and educational destination for generations of families and schoolchildren. One of the oldest zoos in Indiana, its popularity has reached new heights in recent years thanks to an ongoing revitalization project that saw record-breaking attendance of nearly 300,000 visitors in 2022, an increase of almost 100,000 over 2019.
This rapid increase in attendance put a strain on existing amenities and guest services, however, with visitors experiencing longer lines for food, drink and bathrooms, and finding fewer comfortable places to simply sit and enjoy the experience. In response, the zoo elected to move forward with Phase 3 of their master revitalization plan, focusing their fundraising efforts on the new Concession Lodge and Bear Habitat. The new Lodge will not only address concerns with concessions and bathrooms well into the future, but the dining area was designed to include a unique seating and patio area that will look directly into the new bear exhibit, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal or snack while watching these amazing creatures.
The zoo submitted a grant request to the Foundation to support the project. The Foundation board, recognizing the projected 150% increase in revenue the new concession facility is expected to bring, and the economic and educational benefits the zoo has long brought to the community, approved their request.
