Popular Theme Park to Remove Animal Entertainment After Decades of Backlash
Lagoon Amusement Park in Salt Lake City, Utah, is officially shutting down the zoo featured in its Wild Kingdom Train Ride, marking the end of an era for an attraction that has housed exotic animals since 1967.
The decision to phase out the zoo comes after years of controversy, with animal rights activists claiming the enclosures were unfit, and the animals were not properly cared for. However, Lagoon spokesperson Adam Leishman stated that the closure is not due to public pressure but rather a result of the park’s ongoing expansion and plans for new attractions.
Big Cats Already Rehomed, Remaining Animals to Follow
Some of the zoo’s most high-profile residents, including lions and cougars, have already been relocated to an accredited facility in the U.S. According to Leishman, this process was completed late last year, and the remaining animals—including zebras, kangaroos, camels, and elk—will be gradually phased out throughout 2025. Leishman said:
“The plan is to phase out the remainder of the exhibits through this year.”
Despite the long-standing criticism, Lagoon maintains that its zoo animals were always well-treated and safe.
Animal Rights Group Celebrates a Major Win
For years, organizations like the Utah Animal Rights Coalition (UARC) have protested against Lagoon’s animal enclosures, citing concerns about the size and conditions of the habitats. The closure of the zoo, especially the relocation of the big cats, has been hailed as a victory for animal welfare advocates.
Alex Wilde, UARC’s Lagoon campaigner, praised the change in a statement:
“For the first time in years—perhaps ever—these big cats will be able to engage in their natural instinctual behaviors and live a life where their home is measured in square acres, not square feet. This win speaks to the power of grassroots activism and the unwavering commitment of Utahns who advocated for these animals.”
The Future of Lagoon’s Wild Kingdom Train Ride
With the zoo’s closure, Lagoon is now focusing on expanding other areas of the park. While no specific details have been announced, the park’s Wild Kingdom Train Ride—which took guests past the animal enclosures—may undergo a transformation in line with the park’s future development plans.
The removal of the zoo marks a significant shift for Lagoon, bringing an end to nearly 60 years of exotic animal exhibits at the Utah amusement park.
What do you think about Lagoon’s decision to shut down its zoo? Share your thoughts in the comments!
