CONTACT:
Kyle Shepherd; 502-744-5639; Kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo announce a groundbreaking, legendary, unprecedented—and, in fact, downright historic—unicorn exhibit set to open April 1, 2027.
“I am beyond the moon to announce such an iconic opening right here in Louisville. We have the fastest two minutes in sports, the pre‑eminent music festival Bourbon & Beyond, the disco ball, the Louisville Slugger—and now, we will soon have a unicorn to add to the list of things that makes Louisville a magical, world‑class city,” said Mayor Greenberg. “One year from now, I’ll meet you at the Zoo for a little more of that Louisville magic.”
“We are thrilled to break ground on this first‑of‑its‑kind exhibit and to extend our Zoo family with the addition of three unicorns,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “In 2027, we will welcome Ursula (2‑year‑old female), Ursus (5‑year‑old male), and Earl (1482‑year‑old male) to Louisville. I’m even more excited to share that Zoo staff 100% funded this project from their sheer excitement to support the conservation of this magical species. They’ve already asked me about a dragon exhibit next. It’s in our master plan—so stay tuned for that big announcement.”
Construction will begin May 1 in the elephant yard formerly home to Mikki and Punch. We think they would approve of the update of their former habitat.
For full biographies of Ursula, Ursus, and Earl—and additional information—visit louisvillezoo.org/unicorn.
Zoo hours
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through September 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guests exiting by 6 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information on hours and admission.
About the Zoo
The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), a global alliance of zoos and aquariums. For more information visit www.louisvillezoo.org.
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