The RainForest

The RainForest is closed as the building is refreshed, remodeled and integrated into the future Primate Forest destination that will enhance the guest experience and elevate animal wellbeing.

The RainForest showcases more than 10,000 plants and over 600 animals from the jungles of Asia, Africa and the Americas. This unique two-acre, two-level habitat is one of the largest of its kind in the country.

More than 50 specimens of 15 different bird species fly freely overhead in The RainForest’s free-flight, indoor aviary. Hang out with the two-toed sloths and make sure to visit the troop of Bornean orangutans.

The RainForest's naturalistic settings include a 25-foot waterfall, a research hut, the Discovery Center, a tropical rainstorm exhibit with thunder and lightning effects, a weather station and other interactive exhibits.

What is the project timeline?

The first phase of Primate Forest is set to begin construction on September 10, 2024 and will be complete in 2026. The first phase includes a new welcome center, state-of-the-art animal habitats including a new outdoor orangutan habitat, immersive storytelling technology and exhibits, a dynamic play area and enhanced dining and retail experiences.

A future phase will add an expansive, multi-story indoor gorilla habitat, as well as an outdoor habitat. We expect the entire project to be complete prior to 2032 as part of the Zoo’s 150th anniversary.

What will happen to the animals in The RainForest?

Leading up to the temporary RainForest closure, Cleveland Metroparks will prioritize continuous guest accessibility to the current habitats in The RainForest as well as high animal welfare standards for the plants and animals now at home in the current building. The majority of animals currently in The RainForest will remain with enhancements to their existing habitats.

Once The RainForest closes, we will prioritize animal wellbeing throughout construction including moving animals to other on-site habitats both behind-the-scenes and other areas on Zoo grounds. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will continue to provide updates on the construction and animals of The RainForest throughout the initial phase’s construction.