July 28, 2026
For Immediate Release
Roosevelt Park Zoo Breaks Ground on African Plains Pavilion Expansion
Minot, ND— Roosevelt Park Zoo is celebrating another milestone in its continued growth with the groundbreaking of the new African Plains Pavilion, the latest addition to the Zoo’s expanding African Plains experience. Expected to open later this fall, the pavilion will further enhance year-round opportunities for guests to connect with wildlife while supporting the Zoo’s mission of education, conservation, and community engagement.
The African Plains Pavilion is the second phase of the Zoo’s African Plains project, following the successful opening of the indoor giraffe habitat in June 2025. The spacious indoor habitat allows guests to enjoy unforgettable encounters with the Zoo’s giraffes throughout the year, including the opportunity to feed the giraffes year-round.
The new expansion will feature an approximately 800-square-foot covered pavilion designed to host giraffe feedings, unique animal encounters, educational programming, and private celebrations. The versatile space will enhance the visitor experience while creating new opportunities for community events, school groups, and special occasions.
Funding for the pavilion was made possible through generous support from John and Leslie Coughlin.
“This project is so much more than a new building. It’s an investment in the future of our community,” said Zoo Director Dr. Logan Wood. “We are incredibly grateful to John and Leslie Coughlin for their generosity and commitment to helping Roosevelt Park Zoo continue to grow. Their support, alongside the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Plan, is creating opportunities that will benefit families and visitors for generations to come. It’s inspiring to see the Zoo, the Minot Park District, and the entire Minot community continue to flourish together, and I’m excited for all that’s still to come.”
The African Plains Pavilion represents another step in Roosevelt Park Zoo’s long-term vision to provide world-class animal care, engaging guest experiences, and meaningful connections between people and wildlife.
Roosevelt Park Zoo is open 363 days each year. Summer hours are 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and run through August. For more information on Roosevelt Park Zoo, visit www.rooseveltparkzoo.com.