Strategic Priority: Extraordinary Experiences

We will provide extraordinary experiences with animals, full of learning, wonder, and hope, that are welcoming, accessible, and relevant for everyone.

 

Why It Matters

Zoos inspire wonder, curiosity, and a sense of possibility in people of every age and from every background. Through the educational and emotional experiences we provide at the zoo, out in our community, and in the virtual world, we can spark a deeper sense of understanding, empathy, and engagement that leads all people to embrace a conservation ethic.

 

 

We will ensure that zoo experiences are equitable, accessible, and affordable to all members of our community.

• Reduce economic, cultural, and geographic barriers to accessing our experiences and to taking conservation action.
• Make our zoo a place of inclusion in which people of all backgrounds and abilities feel welcome and inspired.

 

We will continue to create innovative, inspirational, and immersive experiences of wild animals and their habitats, both at the zoo and through virtual experiences.

• Combine leading-edge technology, innovative thinking, and a deep understanding of learning science to create remarkable and immersive experiences that include audiences of all abilities, cultures, and interests in wildlife conservation.
• Ensure that we realize the highest value from each exhibit and the animals in our care by creating explicit and effective linkages to wildlife conservation goals.
• Become a go-to destination for conservation tools and content that enhance the zoo experience and extend visitor engagement beyond a zoo visit.

 

We will maintain the zoo as an urban oasis that provides invigorating encounters of the natural world and is welcoming, educational, enjoyable, and culturally relevant for all people throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

• Design, fund, and complete renovations of priority sites on zoo grounds.
• Measure the impact of the visitor experience and continuously adapt to advance our impact.
• Expand sponsorship of events and approaches that make our urban oasis even more accessible and welcoming to all community members.
• Create a workforce, community partnerships, and alliances that reflect the diverse communities we serve.
• Provide professional, career, and mentoring opportunities for all members of our community to enhance and expand their participation in conservation solutions.