Cleveland Zoo closing its RainForest attraction for major expansion and renovation

The RainForest at the Cleveland Zoo as we all know it is about to close for good.

The popular attraction is about to be reshaped and reimagined as part of the zoo's new Primate Forest project.

The final chance for visitors to visit the RainForest will be Monday, Sept. 9, so workers can begin work on the transformation.

When it opened in 1992, the RainForest was one of the largest such attractions in the country with more than 600 animals including Bornean orangutan, small-clawed otters, clouded leopard, sloths, anteaters and some 10,000 live plants, flowers and trees.

Work on the ambitious project actually started three years ago when the zoo replaced the RainForest's iconic geodesic dome. “For more than three decades, The RainForest has fostered a connection between our community and the story of rainforests, generating awareness of the value of these habitats and importance of their protection,” said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Christopher Kuhar in a statement. “So many members of the community have a special connection to The RainForest, whether you remember visiting as a kid, as an adult and sharing the experience with younger generations, or as part of the many special events and weddings that have been hosted at The RainForest.”

The project will transform the attraction's entry way and will create the new Primate Forest and CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Galley with construction expected to be completed in 2026.

What will the Primate Forest and Forest Home be like?

The existing walkway to the RainForest will be enclosed by the new two-story CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Gallery that will be home to interactive educational exhibits and even play structures.

The enclosed Primate Forest will be home to two large multi-story habitats for gorillas and orangutans. Many of the animals in the RainForest will still call the attraction home once the renovation is complete.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Cleveland Zoo closing its RainForest attraction for major expansion and renovation