New Hale Family Education Pavilion opens at Cosley Zoo

Cosley Zoo in Wheaton recently completed the construction of the new Hale Family Education Pavilion.

This new pavilion allows for expanded capacity for daytime educational programming, zoo events and private rentals.

A portion of the building also will serve as a duck shelter to improve animal well-being by providing overnight protection for the ducks.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, the Wheaton Park District, the Cosley Zoo Foundation, Hale family members, donors and staff celebrated the opening.

The Hale Family Foundation generously provided the lead gift for the new pavilion in support of the zoo's conservation education mission. This pavilion replaces the original open-air barn, which surpassed its useful life.

“The Hale Family Foundation is honored to continue supporting conservation education at Cosley Zoo through this new pavilion. My wife, Judy, and I deeply value that people can experience animals they might never encounter at the zoo,” Dave Hale said. “We are delighted the pavilion will provide a beautiful space for learning, community events, and family celebrations for many years to come.”

“The Hale Family Education Pavilion will be a hub for innovative conservation education, welcoming learners of all ages,” said Greg Bockheim, Cosley Zoo director. “It is where imagination thrives and families can discover lasting connections with animals and nature.

“We are very grateful this inspiring space was made possible by the Hale Family Foundation and community supporters,” Bockheim said.

For more information about Cosley Zoo's education programming or to inquire about renting the pavilion, contact education@cosleyzoo.org.

For up-to-date information about Cosley Zoo, visit cosleyzoo.org, facebook.com/cosleyzoo.org or instagram.com/cosleyzoo.org.