In 2014, the Toledo Zoo won the coveted title of USA Today’s #1 Zoo in the Nation—and it is about to get even better with the grand re-opening of the aquarium on March 27.
Since opening its doors more than a century ago in 1900, the Toledo Zoo has recognized the past as it makes an impact on the future, whether it be its historic architecture on campus or the zoo’s focus on the importance of animal conservation.
But sometimes, history needs a little pick-me-up. In 1939, the Zoo finally opened its aquarium, a Works Progress Administration-era structure. Zoo-goers had the opportunity to see a variety of freshwater fish up close, and slowly saltwater marine life trickled in, allowing for a diverse display of how the two habitats differed.
Starting in 2012, the zoo began a massive renovation to the aquarium, while still preserving the familiar 75-year-old facade. Primarily home to freshwater exhibits and a total of 46,000 gallons of water, the updated interior will now be home to three times as many oceanic species and a combined water total of 210,000 gallons. Of the impressive water total, 93,000 gallons belong to the largest tank ever housed at the Toledo Zoo Aquarium, The Tropical Pacific Rainbow Reef Tank. The newly added variety of marine animals from around the world will offer an abundance of spectacular colors and intriguing habitats.
Beginning with the interactive Shark and Stingray Lagoon Touch Tanks, zoo-goers will have the opportunity of an up-close-and-personal visit with two powerhouses of the ocean—of course, in the smaller variety of the species. The lagoon will also feature a separate Invertebrate Laboratory, where visitors can look at other well-known and exotic creatures, like pincushion sea urchins and chocolate-chip starfish.
Travel south-of-the-border during your visit to the Gulf of Mexico, in the Sharks, Rays and Turtles exhibition. Housed in two separate viewing areas, this is the aquarium's second-largest exhibit, and it aims to help conserve a healthy population of endangered sea turtles.
The almost transparent, unusual world of the sea nettle will be on exhibit for the first time ever at the Toledo Zoo. Keeping the visual appeal at great height, the nettle habitat will include a brilliant blue background, to highlight their graceful, colorful bodies.
Many of the previously popular exhibits have been upgraded and modernized. With the addition of brand-new exciting and colorful exhibits, the astonishing aquatic underworld will be on display like never before.
Winter hours: 10am-4pm, daily through April. $17/adults, $14/children under 12 & seniors, free/under 2 years, (Lucas County residents receive $2 off with proof of residency). Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org
