The Brand-New Plaza, Gift Shop and Longneck Café Are Officially Open!

May 29, 2026

On May 28, CMZoo President and CEO, Bob Chastain, was joined by Executive Vice President and incoming President and CEO, Dave Ruhl, CMZoo board members and staff, our retail partners, SSA, iiCON Construction, and others to celebrate the Admissions Grand Opening! The Giraffe Center opens later this summer.

Remarks from Bob Chastain and Dave Ruhl kicked off the celebration of the brand-new admissions area, the 200 Project sculptures, the gift shop, and Longneck Café. African spurred tortoise Chobe even joined the festivities by biting through a browse ribbon to open the new admissions plaza.

Check out all construction-related updates at cmzoo.org/bobsblueprints.

Check out the new features for yourself! Advance timed tickets are required and can be purchased at cmzoo.org. Anytime rideshare tickets are always available at cmzoo.org/rideshare.

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