Before Word Gets Out, Visit The Cleveland Metroparks' Newest Zoo Exhibit
By Nikki Rhoades|Published September 19, 2023
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
For visitors of all ages, there’s something undeniably nostalgic about a trip to the Cleveland zoo. In addition to boasting a rich history, it also just has a tendency to bring out the kid in us. Now, there’s a brand new attraction in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo that’ll have you rediscovering the magic of childhood wonder. This spot lets you get close to some of the cutest residents in the zoo, and you’ll be pleased to see that they’re living their best bear lives.
In late August of 2023, the Cleveland Metroparks unveiled a newly reimagined Susie's Bear Hollow.
The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a super cool destination. At 183 acres in size, there's no shortage of things to see here, and Susie's Bear Hollow is another exciting spot to add to your bucket list... so lace up your walking shoes and let's explore!
This spot is home to absolutely adorable sloth bears...
Sloth bears, if you've never seen them in person, don't look like your average bears. These Indian animals have long hair and manes, and they're rather lanky. Nonetheless, they're super cute to see in person.
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...And the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's male Andean bear, too.
Like the sloth bear, the Andean bear (or spectacled bear, as these guys kind of look like they're wearing glasses) is mostly herbivorous. These fruit-loving animals are the only bears native to South America.
Before this cool new habitat was unveiled, a 60-year-old habitat entertained visitors and housed the bears.
The new structure expands the bears' habitat, nearly tripling the size of the old space. The bears seem super happy with the new digs, too... just wait until you see how they play and explore!
The newly redesigned space, however, is so much cooler.
And it's not just cooler for us as nature lovers! Climbing structures, dig pits, and more encourage the bears' natural behaviors, ensuring they're wholly comfortable and living a bear-y good life.
The new space also has glass viewing opportunities to get you closer to these animals than ever before.
These glass exhibits are my favorite at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, as they really make it seem like you're standing in the exhibit. Some animals are rather interactive, so it's a fun experience for everyone involved.
Plus, the immersive treehouse is a hit with visitors... especially younger ones!
The unique climbing structure allows kids to unleash a bit of energy and get a different view of the bear habitat. Some little visitors report feeling a bit like the bears, as they also have neat climbing platforms in their new space.
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The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo isn't just making these bears' lives better, though. They're also supporting conservation efforts!
The Cleveland Metroparks supports the Andean Bear Conservation Alliance (ABCA), which helps develop conservation plans. They focus on research and the strategic implementation of monitoring programs, striving to conserve habitat and educate along the way. In the past decade, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has provided over $700,000 to Andean bear conservation.
During your visit, you'll love identifying the animals and studying their quirky habits.
The zoo makes it easy to tell which animals are which, so you'll likely learn something new during the visit. And if you're wondering about the welfare of these critters, you'll be pleased to know that the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which requires the highest standards of animal care.
And the vibe of this new destination in the Zoo’s Wilderness Trek is irresistible.
The newly unveiled space is stunning, and the bears really seem to love it. Connect with the zoo on Facebook to keep this neat Cleveland attraction on your radar!
You'll love getting to know these adorable residents in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's newest exhibit!
This is one spot you'll want to add to your local adventure bucket list.
This new attraction in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is too cool for words… you’ll just have to visit it for yourself to experience the wonder of coming face-to-face with these majestic animals. When you do visit, share your photos with us on Instagram! Be sure to use #onlyincleveland for a chance to be featured.
If you’re feeling adventurous during your visit to the zoo, budget time to check out the zipline. It’s your one chance to soar through the zoo like an eagle!
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