May 2008

U.S. Bank Gathering Place Now Open to Visitors

U.S. Bank Gathering Place

Visitors’ first impressions of the Milwaukee County Zoo are about to dramatically change, as the new front entrance mall and atrium, the U.S. Bank Gathering Place, is now open and welcoming guests.

The new 29,500-square-foot atrium will greet visitors as they enter the Zoo, and serve as a one-stop gathering place for planning their visit. The light-filled space has a fluid feel, and connects the formerly separate offices of the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Zoological Society of Milwaukee (ZSM).

The canopied east entrance features shade trees donated by Hawks Nursery, planted in an attractive semi-circle. Colorful flowers and plantings also greet guests, as they have the opportunity to take keepsake photos in front of an arbor and evergreen backdrop. The west entrance boasts two new gardens – called the Elizabeth Elser Doolittle West Gardens – and the popular Taylor Family Humboldt Penguin Exhibit.

Flamingo CafeA new restaurant, upscale coffee shop and renovated gift shop await visitors as they enter the space. Enjoy the upgraded dining area, featuring food stations offering everything from burgers to pasta to salads. A salad and fruit station offers a variety of healthy options as well. Sweet treats are available at the ice cream station and pastry bar, and a self-serve beverage station will help to eliminate waiting in line during the busy season to grab a bottle of water or fountain drink. Savor a latte or espresso at the Gathering Place Coffee and Snack Shop featuring the rich tastes of Milwaukee’s own Alterra Coffee.

Want to know what’s new at the Zoo? Take a peek at several electronic information signs, sponsored by U.S. Cellular, which run announcements, event listings, attraction hours and animal news. Have a question or concern? Visit the new guest-services area, located next to the Zoological Society offices. Looking for that special token of your Zoo visit? Stop at the Flamingo Gift Shop, or the Karibu Gift Shop (located on the opposite side of the building), to purchase a Zoo- or animal-themed souvenir.

Zoo animal photos taken by longtime Society photographer, Richard Brodzeller, are prominently displayed in the atrium, and the U.S. Bank Gathering Place also will host special exhibits and shows. This project was made possible by a donation from U.S. Bank, the Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee County and the Zoological Society.