Open 365 Days A Year!
Our Animals & Exhibits
Botanical Garden
Throughout the season, hundreds of plant varieties provide an ever-changing tapestry of beauty for our visitors and make our animals feel at home. From our rain garden to the jungle garden, our commitment to conservation is actively demonstrated. Make sure you bring your camera and enjoy the Family Garden, which includes some interactive activities as you stroll along this beautiful path created by our local Master Gardeners Club. From towering trees and exotic tropicals to delicate spring bulbs, come see for yourself why we’re called Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden!
Amazonia
Travel to the heart of the Amazon with a tour through this 20,000 square foot “greenhouse”. Enjoy the constant 75 degree temperature as you explore the stunning beauty and diversity of animal and plant life in the South American rainforest. While winding through AMAZONIA, visitors encounter dozens of rainforest residents from high in the canopy to the forest floor below. Tropical trees and palms soar to the 45-foot tall roof and create a lush tropical setting. Howler Monkeys and Toucans welcome visitors to their treetop homes. A Tapir, Capybara, and other exotic creatures wait around each bend in the trail. Visitors are also treated to a rare look at the elusive and majestic jaguar.
Lake Victoria
Located in the center of the rolling hills of Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, this beautiful lake contributes to the well-being of the wildlife and adds a bit of recreational fun with paddle boat rides.
Asia
Creatures great and small demonstrate the diversity of the largest continent. Meet Rupert, our painting rhino, hang with the gibbons, marvel at a double-humped camel, and don’t forget the beautiful tigers. You will also note the takin, which some think are related to the buffalo, but are more closely related to the goat. The size and scope of animals in Asia does not disappoint.
African Panorama
You’ll see wildlife from the plains of Africa interact as you take in the view from one of the highest points in the zoo. From the striking markings on the Greater Kudu to the strong and swift Ostrich, see how different species co-exist in the African wild.
African Rift
The African Rift is home to many herd species and the same is true at our zoo. Nestled into the hillside near the giraffes and zebras, the rift offers visitors an up-close encounter with one of the largest sitatunga herds in captivity. You may want to plan your trip to the rift to coincide with our daily giraffe feedings (11a—3p).
North America
From the Mexican gray wolves of the desert to the eagles soaring high above the earth, North America offers a peak at the expansive landscape that covers our continent. While exploring this area of the zoo, make sure to take a stroll in the Family Garden and enjoy the beautiful blooms and rich greenery.
Discovery Center
The Discovery Center is a multi-purpose facility designed with education in mind. From animal encounters led by our Docents to our animal residents, the Discovery Center and surrounding Discovery Trail provide close-up and hands-on experiences for our visitors. Public restrooms are available.
Kley Memorial Building
Built in the 1950’s, this building is filled with memories of the rich history of Mesker. Once serving as a home for such iconic zoo residents, such as Bunny the Elephant and Donna the Hippo, the space has evolved and transformed into a comfortable home for our new superstars the Komodo Dragon and our nocturnal friends. Kley also offers a modern 4,000 square foot exhibit hall which will host Traveling Exhibits, Special Events, and is available as a facility rental. Public restrooms are available.
Children’s Enchanted Forest
Exploration and discovery are part of a healthy and happy childhood. The Children’s Enchanted Forest provides opportunities for kids to experience the wonders of nature and interact with some of our most playful species. From pretending to be a spider and climbing a web, to the otter crawl, the thrill of discovery is apparent in the smiles and laughter coming from this popular area of the zoo.
The Kinney Family
Penguins of Patagonia
Swim, waddle, and play with a flock of some of the most charismatic penguins you’ve ever met! Penguins of Patagonia features over a dozen Humboldt Penguins. These penguins, being native to parts of Chilé and Peru are right at home in the ever changing Evansville, IN weather. Be it hot or cold you can always find these quirky birds demonstrating their impressive swimming skills in the state-of-the-art geothermal controlled water.