City of Lafayette, IN - Columbian Park Zoo

Columbian Park Zoo
1915 Scott St
Lafayette, IN 47904

Columbian Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Indiana dating back to 1908. The original animals housed at the zoo included foxes, skunks, pelicans, deer, lynx, prairie dogs, and a wolf.

In 1928, the main Animal House was constructed, which is still standing today! One of the first inhabitants of the Animal House was "Linco" the elephant, who was purchased from the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus in Peru, Indiana. Nearly 10,000 school students in Lafayette and West Lafayette raised more than $2,000 toward the purchase of the elephant, then named "Ruth." Lincoln School students exceeded their school's fundraising quota and earned the honor of renaming the elephant to Linco.

Zoo History Photo 2In the 1930's, the Zoo bred many animals for sale to other small zoos. By 1943, the Columbian Park Zoo had housed lions, monkeys, elk, leopards, zebra, bears, and alligators, among many others!

Buddy the Chimp called the Zoo home during the 1950's. He could often be found driving the train through the park (with assistance, of course!).

In 1976, Friends of Columbian Park Zoo was formed to advocate support and raise money for the zoo. This not-for-profit organization has been involved in countless projects over the years and put on many successful events each year including Boo at the Zoo, Zoo Run Run, and Brunch with the Animals.

In 1988, the Bird Aviary was added to the existing Columbian Park Zoo. The Zoo had acquired so many bird species that this extra space was desperately needed to showcase and hold them.

Zoo History Photo 3Today, the zoo houses over 120 animals representing 49 different species. Located in historic Columbian Park, the zoo has made a home and a name for itself in Lafayette.

Columbian Park Zoo made history in 2004! Lafayette Parks & Recreation developed a master plan for the Columbian Park Zoo. Improvements include a discovery center, more naturalized exhibits, and the return of the Columbian Park Carousel.

Columbian Park Zoo reopened to the public on June 30, 2007. Completed exhibits include the Clarian Arnett Family Farm, Bald Eagle Exhibit, Prairie Dog Town, Butterfly Sculpture Garden, and an Interactive Fountain Plaza. Coming next summer are several more new exhibits including River Otters, Owls, and more!

Contact Information
City of Lafayette, IN
20 N 6th ST
Lafayette, IN 47901

Phone Number: 765-807-1000
Email: claufman@lafayette.in.gov