The Experiential Design Index

Glacier Run — Louisville Zoo

Glacier Run, a roughly $21 million Arctic-themed exhibit at the Louisville Zoo in Louisville, Kentucky, opened April 26, 2011; designed by PGAV Destinations, housing polar bears, grizzly bears, seals, and sea lions in a "story-rich mining town" setting with overhead bridges letting bears traverse above visitors.

VenueLouisville Zoo
Project typeNew Exhibition
StatusCompleted
Year completed2011

Credits

FirmRoleNote
PGAV Destinations Architecture
PGAV Destinations Exhibit Design

Description

The exhibit is themed as an imaginary Arctic gold-mining town modeled on Churchill, Manitoba, and pairs immersive habitat design (overhead bridges, underwater viewing) with conservation-focused interpretive messaging. It received the Association of Zoos & Aquariums' Top Honor in Exhibit Design in 2012.

Sources