Zoo Plans

This is an exciting time for everyone involved with the Lake Superior Zoo! A new Master Plan was established in 2010 and will provide a vision for the future.

The Master Plan was partially funded the Minnesota State Legislature's Legacy Amendment Arts and Culture Heritage Fund. The zoo commissioned Studio Hanson/Roberts, Zoological Planning & Design Consultants, to develop a new Master Plan and related business plan for our zoo!

This included a thorough facility assessment and meetings with staff and community members to gather ideas and input for the collaborative process.  Thanks to the Master Plan and the hard work and dedication of zoo staff, volunteers and members of the community, the Lake Superior Zoo regained accreditation from the Association of Zoo and Aquariums in September 2011. 

Current Projects:

Pavilion Renovation Project
The Pavilion will be preserved for education and renewed community connections at the zoo!

The Lake Superior Zoological Society is renovating the historic bluestone Pavilion and will repurpose it for education programming and community events.  The Pavilion is a magnificent, blue-stone, open-air structure that has served our community well for more than 80 years.  Our goal is to develop a three-season multi-use facility for zoo and community programs.  Once renovated, it will be a special place where memories, leaning and the community come together. 

Education: The 2,400 sq. ft. of multi-use space will allow zoo environmental education, summer camps and Zoo Snooze overnight programs to grow.  The Pavilion will be available for use by visiting schools and groups, providing them with a gathering place for lessons, meetings, a picnic lunch and shelter from the weather. 

Community:  The Pavilion will be available to our community for use as a venue for cultural programs, special events, corporate meetings and workshops, and private party rentals.  We envision theatre, music and dance performances, as well as exclusive parties and wedding receptions ~ the Pavilion will provide an exceptional place for special gatherings.

Historical Significance:  The Lake Superior Zoo has served our region since 1923 as a community attraction and educational resource.  The Works Progress Administration (WPA) built many of the zoo buildings, bridges, animal habitats and the Pavilion during the 1930s.  Since that time, the Pavilion has been the hub for public events, zoo picnics, school programs and family gatherings. 

Commitment:  Funding commitments have been received from the Minnesota State Legislature’s Legacy Amendment Fund and other generous donors.  Additional funds are needed to complete the project.

Support:  Gifts in honor or memory of a loved one are appropriate.  For more information about this, or to discuss a pledge of support, please contact Sam Maida by phone at 218-730-4500, ext. 203 or by email at smaida@lszoo.org.   Online donations by credit or check card through GiveMN will help us complete the project.  Thank you!