MN Zoo Waterfront Renewal Project

The Minnesota Zoo’s Waterfront Renewal Project will restore and expand wetland habitat, improve water quality, and create more accessible ways for visitors to experience nature, all while minimizing impacts to the zoo campus during construction. Using native plants and a gently sloped shoreline, the project will reduce erosion, filter runoff, and support healthier wetlands that attract pollinators, amphibians, turtles, and birds. As part of the Zoo’s commitment to sustainability, the renewed waterfront will is designed to MN B3 standards. New paths, seating areas, and accessible routes will connect key areas of the Zoo, helping over 1 million annual guests enjoy and connect with nature year-round. The project also expands the longtime Japanese macaque habitat. The new space, inspired by their native Japan, will feature trees, a pond, and more room for play and socializing, and was carefully designed by zookeepers, animal wellbeing experts, and designers to support the macaques’ natural behaviors while meeting the highest zoo care standards.