Gorillas, Zebras and Beer, Oh My!

Visitors at the Toronto Zoo may be able to enjoy a craft beer or an overnight stay on site at a boutique hotel as proposed in their new 10-year plan.

The plan, which includes a craft brewery and hotel, was approved at a board meeting last week in hopes to see aging infrastructure replaced while also introducing a number of new projects officials believe will “future-proof” the Scarborough facility.

According to a presentation, the 10-year plan includes the creation of a craft brewery near the former Malayan Woods Pavilion. The lower level of the brewery will be open for guests while the upper space will be a “touch-down space for orangutans.”

The zoo said it hopes to showcase its commitment to sustainability by using waste from the brewing process to generate heat in the habitat.

There will be two new conservation campuses. The first campus will feature a space where the zoo can highlight its latest projects and endeavors. An otter habitat will be out front “so that guests encounter charismatic Canadian wildlife that are visible prior to entering the zoo.”

On the other side of the entrance will be the second campus, which will include a hotel, theatre hall, changing exhibit hall and wildlife conservation research centre.

“This will create a new, dynamic destination hub in the east end of Toronto,” officials said.

“Orangutans are brought right near the entry, above guests, on the O-line, giving them freedom of choice and demonstrating the devotion that goes into animal care and enrichment at Your Zoo.”

The plan also mentions incorporating yurts for overnight stays year round.

In addition to these additional features, the zoo hopes to make their facilities more welcoming in the colder months by creating an indoor viewing and holding area. The pavilion will be available for rent as a venue for events.

The projects—which are estimated to cost at least $148 million over the next 10 years—would still have to be approved by Toronto’s city council.

Renderings courtesy of Toronto Zoo