VISIONS FOR THE FUTURE
Imagine yourself among splashing penguins, curious gibbons and meerkats or chattering otters. Our next masterplan project makes that possible by placing Kansas-based animals and exotic species from around the world into four themed habitats: My Land, My Water, My Air and My Farm. This project, known as My World, will be a dynamic concept for children of all ages, using interactive play, fun learning and exploration to engage their growing minds.
Now... get ready to experience My World before construction begins!
Press play to immerse yourself in the architectural rendering that will enhance the heart of the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center!
WHY IS THIS PROJECT CALLED MY WORLD?
In an effort to inspire children ages 7-9, we want to create passion and empathy to care for the world through joyous play and fun learning.
Your experience begins with walking beneath a waterfall. This cascade, which serves as nature’s filter to produce pristine water, feeds into a wetland. A winding stream spills into a pond inhabited by North American freshwater mussels, as well as fish, amphibians and turtles native to the Kansas region. We are thrilled to display our support for conservation through the AZA SAFE mussel program, actively cultivating mussels for future release initiatives.
The native grasses of the Kansas Prairie sway in the breeze like a vast green ocean, evoking childhood memories of playing in the grass while the sound of crickets — and the meadowlark’s song — surround you. As you navigate My Land’s tall grass maze, you’ll find yourself recalling a simpler time in life.
My Air’s lush ecosystem houses species that soar through the air and dwell within the upper canopy of rainforests. Guests will encounter rainbow lorikeets from Australia and gibbons from Asia, as well as songbirds, owls and porcupines native to North America.
The iconic “Fisher-Price” barn inspired the design of My Farm, where the doors “moo” when opened. Children can safely explore everything from tractors to farm animals. Guests can interact with the barn’s chickens, alpacas, goats and pigs, as well as a donkey. A silo and barn support a pleasant sensory experience where guests can delight in the oinks, bleats, baas, heh-haws and clucks of the animals that call My Farm, home.
My Food, a charming farmhouse-style restaurant with a spacious wrap-around porch, conveniently located near play areas and animal interactions. Savor lunch with your family at one of our tables, or rest in a rocking chair as you chat with a friend. On hot summer days, escape the heat and take it easy with a freshly cooked meal inside My Food’s air-conditioned walls. A party room, located near several restrooms and a private nursing room, is an ideal venue for birthday celebrations, corporate meetings, baby showers and more.
Water, Land and Air environments intersect at the inclusive playground, designed for people of all abilities. My Play offers a playful sensory experience that encourages climbing and exploration. Its signature features distinguish it from more traditional playgrounds, ensuring it becomes one of the most enticing and sought-after destinations within My World. My Play will be a gathering place for friends and family. Where new friendships begin and flourish and old friendships are renewed. Sensory experiences and climbers nurture cooperative play where children interact, encourage and learn from each other. As well as places where children can find solitude to ponder and observe.
Insects may be small, but their impact on the world is immense. Representing a significant portion of Earth’s biodiversity, with estimates of millions of species yet to be discovered. Enter our world of insects when you visit the Insectarium and learn about insects that pollinate, discover the intricate detail of almost art forming patterns and be amazed at the cultural and aesthetic value insects have in areas around the world. Each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem, contributing to the intricate web of life on which we all depend.
Upon arrival at the new entrance of the Topeka Zoo, guests will find amenities such as a new reception, ticketing booth and gift store. A new sustainability center will be built at the entrance. This center will serve as the hub for the zoo’s 128-member docent program, and a space for ongoing education initiatives. The space will provide opportunities to host regional and national speakers on wildlife conservation, who will share new insights and knowledge with the community.
For those hidden gems that are oh so necessary to complete a project! Completing a project is similar to building a home. Here at the Topeka Zoo, we start underground, build a foundation, create momentum, have hard hat tours, share stories and photos of concrete being poured, glass installed, look at those walls and more. Each step builds a buzz, creates joy, and when the animals arrive, well that is exhilarating! It’s the little things that add up, the furnishings, the appliances, the ticketing system, seating and landscape. These are the important needs in animal and guest areas to make a happy home. It puts the extra in ordinary for an award winning masterplan project.
8 PROJECTS IN ONE ASK
Help us reach the top of the Humboldt Penguin in our efforts to enhance the heart of the zoo!
On behalf of the Topeka Zoo and all those who will benefit from your generosity, we extend a heartfelt thank you for your donation towards our masterplan. Your support plays a vital role in our efforts to create a more sustainable and engaging environment for our community. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future, where education and conservation thrive. Thank you for your commitment to the Topeka Zoo.
EIN: 48-6117369
