Amphibian and Reptile Center

The Amphibian and Reptile Center (ARC) follows Asian Trek as the second major project derived from the Zoo Knoxville Master Plan. As part of a new Adventure Education approach, the project merges two key education experiences and spaces – an indoor, science-based lab classroom for hands-on study and a dipnet wildlife pond – both linked together with a series of boardwalks and decks. Other outdoor experiences will include conservation bogs and marshes, various turtle and tortoise habitats and a new otter exhibit. The building’s location is strategically placed with prime frontage to the main entry plaza giving visitors a key animal experience as they come through the ticketing gate while strengthening the clustering of all-season attractions at the zoo entrance. The 12,000 SF indoor experience will be anchored by a combination of conservatory sky-lit habitats and beautiful museum-quality gallery exhibits. Features include hands-on areas for research and discovery, views into a behind-the-scenes biosecure conservation room and turtle incubation areas as well as a Turtle and Tortoise Greenhouse experience where guests can observe and interact with the Herpetology staff managing this important collection of animals.