Amarillo Zoo Announces Closure Dates Ahead of Major Transformation

Amarillo is seeing big changes at our zoo, and it starts with a temporary closure. Back in October 2025, we shared that the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center's Stephanie Brady went before the Amarillo City Council with a proposal to turn the Amarillo Zoo into a non-profit. Then, in March, the Amarillo City Council voted to move forward with the proposal.

Read More: Amarillo Zoo Future Takes Major Step Forward

This is a big change for the Amarillo Zoo, and the hope is that it will bring much-needed upgrades, more focused care, and a greater selection of animals.

Amarillo Zoo Becoming a Sanctuary

The paperwork is now finished, and the Amarillo Zoo is officially the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary. This is where the transition really begins.

When the Amarillo Zoo Will Be Closed

The Amarillo Zoo will temporarily close on April 3 to allow for staff transitions, operational updates, and to prepare the facility for its new role. This isn't just downtime, it’s a chance for those stepping in to get acclimated to the animals, prepare for the future, and make the Amarillo Zoo even better.

The closure will last close to a month, with a reopening date of April 27.

No Easter Weekend at the Zoo This Year

For a lot of families in Amarillo, a trip to the zoo on Easter weekend has become a tradition. That won’t be the case this year with the temporary closure. It’s a change many will notice, but it’s all part of a bigger plan for the zoo’s future.

Read More: The Amarillo Zoo Welcomes New Sloth to the Mix

What Happens When the Zoo Reopens

Even though the zoo will be closed for a short time, it will reopen with a new sense of purpose. Big changes are coming, and this next chapter could reshape what the Amarillo Zoo means for families across the area. If you're not following the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary on social media, now is a good time to stay updated as the transition unfolds.