10/13/2026
Today, we broke ground on African Shorelines, the first phase of our transformational, multi-year Safari Trail expansion project. We were joined by City of Dallas and Dallas Park and Recreation Department officials, local dignitaries, campaign donors, and project partners to mark the start of construction on the largest capital project in Dallas Zoo history.
Set to open in spring 2028, African Shorelines will transform our former penguin and cheetah area into an immersive, walk-through experience. Guests will be able to explore an expanded habitat for our critically endangered African penguins, with rocky landscapes, beach-like spaces, and expansive underwater viewing areas. Nearby, a fully netted habitat will allow lesser flamingos to fly freely overhead. Between the two habitats, a new indoor-outdoor cafĂŠ and event space will overlook the flamingos, with a nearby outdoor area for Keeper Chats and ambassador animal encounters.
Bringing African Shorelines to this point has taken years of planning and strong community support. Weâre grateful to Dallas voters who approved bond funding in 2024, our generous donors, and our project partners, CLR Design, Dimensional Innovations, Linbeck Group, LLC, Partners Development, and the Dallas Park and Recreation Department, for helping bring African Shorelines to life.
As construction gets underway, some pathways leading to Wilds of Africa may be narrower. Guests will continue to have access to the Gregg Hudson Giants of the Savanna, Gorilla Trail, Simmons Hippo Outpost, and other nearby experiences, with pathways directing guests around the construction area.
