The Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington celebrated the grand opening of its newest exhibit this weekend — a $5 million habitat expansion that adds three new species and significantly upgrades existing animal enclosures.

The expansion, called “Wild Delaware & Beyond,” features a river otter habitat with an underwater viewing tunnel, a red panda exhibit with elevated walkways and bamboo gardens, and an expanded bald eagle aviary that’s triple the size of the previous enclosure.

The project also includes a new educational pavilion with interactive exhibits about Delaware’s native wildlife, a nature play area for children ages 2–8, and improved accessibility throughout the zoo with ADA-compliant pathways and sensory-friendly spaces.

“This expansion transforms the Brandywine Zoo from a pleasant afternoon visit into a must-see destination,” said Zoo Director Dr. Brint Spencer. “The river otter exhibit alone is worth the trip.”

The Brandywine Zoo is located in Brandywine Park and is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children 3–17, and free for children under 3. Delaware residents receive $2 off with proof of residency. Annual memberships start at $55 for families.

The zoo expects the new exhibits to increase annual attendance from 75,000 to over 120,000 visitors.