By Enrico Villegas
City Insights
The Hutchinson Zoo’s Master Plan lays out an exciting and transformative vision for the future of the zoo, beginning with Phase One in 2026.
This first phase will focus on rebuilding the existing train loop and constructing a new train station, improving both accessibility and guest experience.
Along the train loop, visitors will encounter brand-new habitats for Mexican wolves, peccary, and the zoo’s deer and pronghorn. The Mexican wolf habitat will hopefully become a breeding facility for this endangered species, while the peccary and deer/pronghorn habitats will showcase animals native to the American Southwest.
Near the current train station, guests will discover new exhibits for red kangaroos and sulcata tortoises, each with indoor facilities for comfort for the animals in the harsh Kansas winters. These exhibits are designed as interactive spaces, offering walk-through experiences and feeding opportunities that bring guests closer to the animals.
Phase Two, planned for 2027–2028, will expand the zoo’s educational offerings with the addition of an Agriculture Education Center.
The centerpiece of this area will be a large multipurpose barn designed to house livestock and serve as a hub for agricultural learning and community programs. Surrounding the barn will be demonstration plots showcasing both traditional Kansas crops and more unique varieties, highlighting the diversity of regional agriculture.
The zoo plans to partner with local organizations such as the Reno County Extension Office, 4-H, and FFA programs to create hands-on learning opportunities for students and visitors. This phase will also introduce several mixed-species yards featuring familiar farm animals like goats, pigs, sheep, chickens, and cattle, creating an engaging and educational farm experience for guests of all ages.
Looking ahead to 2029 and beyond, the zoo’s Master Plan envisions even more remarkable additions. Plans include the creation of a grizzly bear exhibit—featuring one of the prairie’s most iconic predators—located in the heart of the zoo.
Along the northern edge of the grounds, a series of cabins will provide an immersive overnight experience, giving guests the chance to stay surrounded by wildlife in a way that few regional zoos can offer.
The final phase of the plan will culminate in the development of a world-class prairie exhibit showcasing a variety of native plains species in flexible habitats that allow animals to move throughout the space. Elevated viewing platforms will offer panoramic views of the landscape, while new exhibits for prairie dogs and American badgers will complete this dynamic, ever-changing prairie ecosystem—bringing the Hutchinson Zoo’s vision for connection, conservation, and education to life.
Enrico Villegas is the Hutchinson City Manager. He can be reached at Enrico.Villegas@hutchinsonks.gov.