The Amazonia exhibit features a 20,000-square-foot glass dome mimicking a South American rainforest ecosystem.
The zoo is built on varied, hilly terrain that provides naturalistic elevation for different animal habitats.
It operates the Kley Animal Care Center, which serves as a specialized facility for veterinary procedures and animal rehabilitation.
The park was originally established as a city park before incorporating a zoological collection.
It maintains a significant focus on conservation efforts for species native to the Amazon River Basin.
Mesker Park Zoo is Indiana’s oldest zoo, established in 1928, situated on 45 acres of hilly, wooded terrain. It features the Amazonia exhibit, a climate-controlled rainforest biome that houses free-flying birds and primates under a massive glass dome. The zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for endangered animals, including jaguars and lemurs. Its topography includes significant elevation changes, distinguishing it from flat-land zoo designs. The facility is home to over 700 animals representing species from South America, North America, and other global regions. Visitors encounter diverse habitats ranging from wetlands to arid environments. The grounds integrate botanical displays with animal enclosures to create a cohesive landscape design. It serves as a regional hub for wildlife conservation education in Southwestern Indiana.
The elevated walkway inside the Amazonia dome, which offers a canopy-level view of the exhibit's vegetation and free-roaming wildlife.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the zoo is built on hilly terrain and involves significant incline walking.
Check the schedule for animal feeding times or keeper talks, which vary daily and offer up-close insights.
Visit the Amazonia dome first, as the climate-controlled environment provides a consistent experience regardless of outdoor weather.
Do not attempt to walk the entire perimeter quickly; the hilly terrain requires a steady pace to see the full collection.
Open daily year-round, except for major winter holidays.
No outside food or drinks allowed in certain exhibit areas; refrain from feeding the animals or tapping on glass enclosures.
