Louisville Zoo celebrates highest attendance in 57-year history
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (July 8, 2026)— The Louisville Zoo is thrilled to announce the highest attendance in the Zoo’s 57-year history. The Zoo welcomed 945,225 guests this fiscal year, surpassing all previous attendance records, including the previous record set during the opening of Glacier Run in 2012.
The Louisville Zoo continues to grow as a destination for education, conservation, and family fun while making Zoo experiences more accessible for everyone. This year, programs like the Community Access Pass and the free Morning Walking Club helped more people enjoy the Zoo and connect with nature.
“The Louisville Zoo is one of our city’s premier attractions for family fun and a source of pride for Louisville and the entire region,” said Mayor Greenberg. “Congratulations to the Zoo team who work tirelessly every day to make this treasured destination safer, stronger, and enjoyable for every visitor that comes through their doors.”
Guests also had plenty to celebrate in the past 12 months including more Zoo events like La Fiesta, Wild Lights, Throo the Boo, the births of three Amur tiger cubs, a colobus monkey and a giraffe, and the arrival of two orangutans and two gorillas.
Plans are underway for the Louisville Zoo Kentucky Trails, an extensive, interactive and naturalistic experience, providing up-close encounters with bison, elk, black bear, bobcat, eagles and other iconic native animals. It will feature an Upland South Safari guided tour in an open- vehicle, a pedal, paddleboat ride, a rickhouse hall restaurant and event space, a habitat theatre and the Kentuckiana Conservation Center highlighting the Zoo’s partnership with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Groundbreaking is planned for early 2027 with construction slated to last three years for a completion summer 2029.
“Welcoming our most guests ever is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers and partners who work hard every day to create an outstanding experience for every patron,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “From unforgettable animal encounters and conservation programs to special events and new features, our exceptional team is committed to making every visit meaningful. We are deeply grateful to our community for embracing the Zoo and helping us reach this historic achievement.”
The record-breaking attendance highlights the Zoo’s growing impact as a place where people can learn, explore and make lasting memories together. Throughout its history, the Louisville Zoo has welcomed millions of guests while advancing its commitment to animal care, wildlife conservation and community engagement.
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through September 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guests exiting by 6 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information on hours, admission and special programs.
While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city's top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.