Phase One of the Abilene Zoo master plan was designed to support a bond election for key improvements, featuring the Big Cat Café, naturalistic animal exhibits, and versatile open spaces for both private and community events.

The Big Cat Café, located between the new lion and cheetah exhibits, offers seating with views into naturalistic habitats, inviting visitors to engage closely with the animals. From the café, a split-level lawn extends outward, providing flexible space for both daily use and larger events. Pathways from the lawn converge at a central, enclosed playground, designed to interact with surrounding animal habitats and provide children with an immersive, explorative experience that brings them closer to the animals.

An elevated boardwalk links multiple exhibits and connects to the café’s upper level, creating an intuitive circulation path for visitors. The playground features a signature structure with three vertical elements in red, green, and yellow, inspired by African culture.

Phase One unites education, recreation, and conservation into a cohesive visitor experience. The Big Cat Café and central playground are key amenities that engage visitors, support revenue, and reinforce the zoo’s role as a vibrant community destination.