1800s
Glen Oak Zoo had it's beginnings in the late 1800's when a herd of elk was
donated to the Peoria Park District. Over the next fifty years, the
"zoo" moved to several locations, eventually near the lagoon in Glen
Oak Park.
1955
In order to develop a more formal collection, advice was sought from Marlin
Perkins, Director of the St. Louis Zoo and later star of Mutual of Omaha's Wild
Kingdom, and local architect Cletis Foley. The current Glen Oak Zoo
exhibits building opened in 1955.
1970s
The Zoo took on a more professional appearance, emphasizing education,
conservation and recreation.Friends of Glen Oak
Zoo was formed and collaborated with the Peoria Park District to offer new
animals and exhibits.
1976
In it's ongoing commitment to provide a quality attraction where people of all
ages could appreciate the wonders of nature, Glen Oak Zoo became an accredited
member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
1992
A community task force was formed to analyze the Zoo's status and recommend a
path regarding it's future. The conclusions: the zoo is an important part
of our community; it should remain centrally located; a master plan should be
developed to give direction.
1997
The Peoria Zoological Society was formed to lead the effort for the new
Zoo. Torre Design Consortium was hired and after significant community
involvement, a Master Plan was completed and adopted.
2002
The Peoria Park District and the Peoria Zoological Society signed an agreement
regarding the expansion of the Zoo and fundraising efforts began.
2012
Power of Play campaign reaches milestone with the opening of the Barton Pavilion. The Barton Pavilion now serves as the entrance to the zoo.
Today
The power of play is at the foundation of a child’s ability to learn and grow. Research proves that kids who get opportunities for experimental play have better social skills, improved literacy, reduced stress and increased success in life.
That’s why the Junior League of Peoria and Peoria Zoological Society have joined forces to build the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum and expand Peoria Zoo—creating a daylong destination for learning through play that equips local kids with the tools to succeed.
Join us in filling this critical need in our community. Together, we have the power to engage children’s minds, hearts and bodies like few other attractions in the area.
Tomorrow
Peoria PlayHouse Exhibit
All Construction Great and Small:
Kids don hard hats to build bridges spanning a faux river and use real tools to build objects. A magical bridge triggers a musical surprise.
Peoria Zoo Exhibit
Water We Doing Today:
The Water We Doing Today will be built to mimic flowing water with colored concrete, providing a visually striking start to every Peoria Zoo visit, while also serving as an orientation center for school groups and others as they set off to explore the zoo.
Click Here to DONATE to the Peoria Zoo now