Kansas City, Missouri

The Elephant Exhibit Enhancement is an exciting project focused on bringing this main attraction at the Kansas City Zoo back to life. SK Design was challenged with a balance of improvements to the guest experience, while also improving the animal welfare. Elephants can now experience a new oasis watering hole with gradual entry, increased size, water quality and two grand waterfalls. The exhibit has been widened, so the elephants can freely roam without being limited by pinch points along the run.

The guest experience has been vastly improved with a new grand entrance and demonstration amphitheater, wider guest paths, improved flow, incorporated shade structures throughout the path and two new tram stops for better guest and vehicular flow throughout the entire Zoo. Our knowledge in site development, roadways, grading, utilities, drainage and ADA accessibility allowed us to design a marvelous project with awe-inspiring new features, while allowing the heart of the existing exhibit to remain intact.

The renovation will transform a once dormant exhibit into one of the Zoo’s crown jewels as guests will be inspired, educated and entertained by these majestic animals.