Officials at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium have released renderings of the new Carousel Plaza, which will be built on the current site of the Red Barn Park.
The plaza has been expedited due to the need for updated guest services facilities near Alaskan Adventure, Sue’s Carousel, the Dick and Mary Holland Meadowlark Theater, Stingray Beach, the north gate and the Omaha Train Depot.
The 6,700-square-foot concessions building will house 10 walk-up windows for ordering. Visitors will have a variety of seating options as the public plaza will include a mix of tables, chairs, benches and shade structures to accommodate approximately 500 guests.
Large public restroom facilities, including two family restrooms, will be available to visitors. A semi-private seating area utilizing natural fence enclosures will provide nursing mothers with shaded seating. A sweet shop is also planned along with a new ticket booth for the Tram, Stingray Beach, Train, Carousel and Skyfari.
Carousel Plaza will also include a children’s play area with a soft play surface and interactive play features, a 760-square-foot open-air market space and a Tram stop waiting area with bench seating.
Many animals, such as goats, from Red Barn Park have been moved to the Bay Family’s Children’s Adventure Trails, Meadowlark Theater and Goat Kraal across from the African Lodge.