Jacksonville, Florida, January 30, 2026
The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is set to open its new VyStar SkyScape entrance and J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River exhibit on March 6, 2026. This development is part of the $52 million REZOOVENATION initiative aimed at revitalizing the zoo and enhancing facilities for its animals. The manatee exhibit will feature a critical care center for rehabilitation efforts, highlighting the zoo’s commitment to conservation efforts supported by local contributions.
Jacksonville Zoo to Unveil New Entrance and Manatee Exhibit
March 6, 2026, Marks New Milestone for Local Attraction
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens has set an official opening date of March 6, 2026, for its eagerly anticipated new entrance and manatee exhibit. This exciting development is part of the zoo’s extensive $52 million renovation initiative, named REZOOVENATION, which aims to revitalize the campus and enhance the habitats for its resident animals.
The New Developments Explained
The new VyStar SkyScape entrance is designed to offer guests an engaging experience right from the moment they arrive. Opening alongside this innovative entrance will be the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River exhibit, which features a 330,000-gallon critical care center dedicated to the rehabilitation of Florida’s endangered manatees. This critical facility reflects the zoo’s growing commitment to conservation and the recovery efforts of this at-risk species.
Support from the Community
The realisation of the VyStar SkyScape entrance and the manatee exhibit has been significantly bolstered by generous local contributions. Notably, VyStar Credit Union has pledged $2.25 million for the entrance, while J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver have committed $3 million for the manatee exhibit. These partnerships underscore a robust community investment in the zoo’s mission and conservation strategies. Such private-sector support exemplifies how reduced regulatory barriers can drive business engagement and bolster community projects.
Overview of the REZOOVENATION Plan
REZOOVENATION is a multi-faceted improvement plan initiated by the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, focusing on modernizing facilities and enhancing animal habitats. In addition to the new entrance and manatee care center, the plan encompasses the development of a new education campus and immersive habitats for lions and elephants. Adjustments to the fundraising goal, raised from $52 million to $70 million due to increasing construction costs, indicate a strong, evolving commitment to the zoo’s future. To date, approximately 66% of this new target has already been secured, showcasing the continued dedication of local stakeholders.
Engagement for Visitors
The opening of these new features will enrich the visitor experience at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, further solidifying its role as a vital educational and recreational resource for Jacksonville and its surrounding communities. The zoo remains steadfast in its mission of conservation, education, and recreation, fostering connection and awareness among visitors.
A Look Back at the Jacksonville Zoo
Established in 1914, the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens occupies 122 acres at the mouth of the Trout River. Housing over 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species, the zoo offers an exceptionally diverse experience that continues to draw visitors from across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the new entrance and manatee exhibit at the Jacksonville Zoo open?
The new VyStar SkyScape entrance and the J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River exhibit are scheduled to open on March 6, 2026.
What is the REZOOVENATION plan at the Jacksonville Zoo?
REZOOVENATION is a multi-phase redevelopment plan initiated by the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens to modernize its facilities and improve animal habitats. The plan includes the construction of a new education campus, an immersive lion habitat, and a reimagined elephant habitat, among other enhancements.
How has the community supported the Jacksonville Zoo’s new developments?
The VyStar SkyScape entrance and the manatee exhibit have been made possible through significant contributions from local organizations. VyStar Credit Union donated $2.25 million for the entrance, while J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver provided $3 million for the manatee exhibit.
What is the mission of the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens?
The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is committed to conservation, education, and recreation, providing a valuable resource for the Jacksonville community and beyond.
Key Features of the Jacksonville Zoo’s New Developments
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| VyStar SkyScape Entrance | An immersive gateway designed to enhance the guest arrival experience. |
| J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River Exhibit | A 330,000-gallon critical care center dedicated to the rehabilitation of Florida manatees. |
| REZOOVENATION Plan | A multi-phase redevelopment plan to modernize facilities and improve animal habitats, including a new education campus and immersive lion habitat. |
| Community Support | Significant contributions from local organizations, including a $2.25 million donation from VyStar Credit Union and a $3 million donation from J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver. |
| Visitor Experience | Continued commitment to providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Recent Developments Impacting Jacksonville Community
Jacksonville’s Festive Holiday Events
Final Week of Nights of Lights and Community Celebrations in St. Augustine
St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights Festival Sees Record Attendance
Jacksonville, Florida Unveils New Initiatives and Developments
Trace Adkins and Alabama Shakes Set to Rock Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida Faces Unseasonably Warm and Dry Christmas
Jacksonville’s Holiday Events Foster Community Engagement
Jacksonville Beach Celebrates Community Spirit with Deck the Chairs
Jaguars Topple Broncos: A Milestone Victory for Jacksonville
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
