The RainForest at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo closing Tuesday for renovations

CLEVELAND (WJW) — Monday is the final day to visit the RainForest at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo before it closes for extensive renovations.

According to the zoo , the building that houses the RainForest is being remodeled and integrated into the future Primate Forest. It’s a move that “will enhance the guest experience and elevate animal wellbeing,” the zoo wrote on its website.

The RainForest will be closed to the public starting Tuesday, Sept. 10 through 2026. The project will get underway Tuesday morning.

According to the website, the first phase of the Primate Forest project includes a new welcome center, state-of-the-art animal habitats including an outdoor orangutan habitat, exhibits, a play area, plus dining and retail options.

A multi-story indoor gorilla habitat and outdoor habitat is also planned.

The entire project is expected to be completed prior to 2032 as part of the zoo’s 150th anniversary, the zoo wrote.

As for the RainForest inhabitants, the zoo said on its website that affected animals will be moved to other areas of the zoo during construction.

The zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April through October, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through March.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.