Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium | Master Plan

TESSERE partnered with the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium to develop a comprehensive Master Plan for a large, topographically complex campus shaped by steep terrain, aging infrastructure, and evolving operational needs. The plan establishes a long-term vision that enhances animal wellbeing, improves guest circulation, and creates new opportunities for growth while maintaining daily operations. 

Connecting the Campus Through Strategic Planning 

The Master Plan reorganizes the campus into clear planning zones while improving circulation, accessibility, and wayfinding. New arrival experiences, enhanced connections between habitats and guest amenities, and strategic reuse of existing infrastructure help create a more intuitive and efficient campus for visitors, staff, and animals alike. 

Careful phasing allows the Zoo to balance ambitious future development with realistic implementation strategies, supporting long-term reinvestment without disrupting ongoing operations. 

Expanding Experiences for Animals and Guests 

Across the campus, the plan introduces new and expanded habitats, immersive guest experiences, and year-round amenities. Reimagined environments for species including elephants, giraffes, gorillas, orangutans, and red pandas support modern animal care standards while creating deeper connections between animals and guests. 

New destination experiences, elevated pathways, overnight accommodations, family attractions, and event venues encourage longer visits and create additional opportunities for engagement and revenue generation. Expanded indoor and climate-controlled spaces further improve guest comfort throughout the year. 

A Roadmap Designed for Action 

More than a vision document, the Master Plan provides a practical framework for phased investment and decision-making. Several priority projects, including a new front entry, giraffe barn, and Expedition Indonesia, have already advanced into implementation, demonstrating the plan’s value as an actionable roadmap for future growth. 

By aligning animal care, guest experience, infrastructure, and operational priorities within a single strategy, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium Master Plan positions the institution for continued growth and impact for decades to come. 

Key Features 

• Reimagined arrival experience with expanded parking and entry facilities 

• Improved circulation and accessibility across a challenging hillside campus 

• New and expanded habitats for key resident species 

• Immersive wildlife experiences, elevated pathways, and overnight accommodations 

• Additional event spaces and revenue-generating destinations 

• Expanded climate-controlled guest amenities 

• Adaptive reuse of existing facilities to support phased implementation 

• Multiple projects already advancing from plan to construction and design phases