Rendering of the new giraffe exhibit, which will have more drinkers, fans and feeders. Rendering: Courtesy of Houston Zoo.
The Houston Zoo is upgrading its white rhinoceros and giraffe habitats and a concession space.
State of play: Construction began last week, with phased openings expected throughout 2026 and early 2027, per the zoo's announcement.
Zoom in: The white rhinoceros habitat will expand to include zebras and an additional rhino. There will be more shade with a covered viewing shelter and new a water feature.
Nearby, the McGovern Giraffe Habitat is adding a shade canopy and new features to improve comfort for the Zoo's five giraffes.
The Shani Market, located between the two habitats, will reopen this summer as a grab-and-go store with self-checkout and products supporting conservation partners in Kenya.
