Toledo Zoo

In 1900, a single woodchuck was donated to the City of Toledo's Parks Board. From that small act of generosity, a great institution emerged, one that has become virtually synonymous with Toledo. The Toledo Zoo is now widely regarded as one the finest zoological institutions in the nation. It is not only the region's number one attraction, but it is also recognized as a leader in animal conservation. It has become an integral part of the Toledo community and a draw for animal lovers from all over.

As an institution with a more than 100-year history, The Toledo Zoo understands the need to preserve the past even as it reaches out toward the future. As you stroll around the Zoo's grounds, that sense of history is everywhere. You'll see it most prominently in the WPA-era buildings that still house our Aviary, Reptiles and Aquarium. It's in our historic Amphitheatre, which hosts several concerts throughout the summer. And it's in our commitment to providing each visitor with the best experience possible.

The Toledo Zoo's standing as a cornerstone in the community was never a given, though. From its earliest days, the Zoo faced enormous challenges, from uncertain financial conditions to changes in the natural world that require us to constantly re-evaluate our standards of animal care.

The Zoo was run by the City of Toledo until 1982, when ownership transferred to The Toledo Zoological Society, a private non-profit organization. This transfer marked the beginning of a new era of improvements and progress.

Inspiring others to join us in caring for animals and conserving the natural world.

Explore Related Categories