The Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary will reopen to the public on Monday, marking the next step in its transition to a nonprofit operating model following a brief spring closure for facility improvements and organizational changes.
The zoo temporarily closed from April 3 through April 26 after completing a new lease agreement between the City of Amarillo and the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which now oversees operations. The shift, finalized in March, officially moved the facility into nonprofit status at the beginning of April, signaling a long-term restructuring of how the zoo is managed and funded.
During the closure period, staff and volunteers focused on a series of behind-the-scenes improvements aimed at enhancing both visitor experience and animal care. Work included deep cleaning across the grounds, upgrades to operational systems, and updates to signage intended to make navigation and educational information clearer for guests. Leaders of the organization also used the downtime to refine day-to-day procedures as part of a broader effort to build a more sustainable operating structure.
When doors reopen, the Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary will resume regular visiting hours from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The final entry for guests will be at 4:30 p.m., allowing staff time to manage closing procedures and maintain animal care routines.
Admission prices will remain unchanged following the transition. General entry is set at $7.50 for adults and $5.50 for children between the ages of two and 12. While pricing stability has been maintained during the shift to nonprofit management, leadership indicated that it is still evaluating visitor trends and operational costs before introducing any future discounts or promotional pricing structures.
Zoo representatives noted that the organization is in the early stages of its nonprofit model and is taking time to better understand attendance patterns and financial needs. The goal, according to leadership updates, is to create a long-term system that supports both animal welfare and public access while ensuring financial sustainability.
Looking ahead, the zoo is preparing to launch new membership opportunities. These are expected to include seasonal passes for frequent visitors as well as donor-focused memberships designed to support ongoing improvements and conservation efforts.
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