The Pride of the Desert
Join Us at the Crossroads of Conservation
Our Initiatives
Market Place Café & Splashpad, Lion Ridge and The Lurie Special Events Center
Phase: 3
Projected Completion: Fall 2026
The final phase of our project draws guests closer to nature. Lion Ridge, a sprawling habitat, will showcase the power and agility of lions. Over 250 years ago, there were an estimated 1 million African Lions. Now, this vulnerable species is estimated to have only 20,000 remaining in the wild. Their survival depends on awareness and support for global conservation efforts.
Adjacent to Lion Ridge will be The Lurie Special Events Center. This unique space, partially funded by Connie and Bob Lurie, will cater to Zoo, private, and corporate events. This space features a stunning 180-degree glass wall offering a direct view into the lion habitat. It can host up to 500 guests for dining while enjoying an unparalleled view of our lion pride. The true Pride of the Desert!
Rhino Savanna
Phase: 2
Completion Date: November 2021
Total Cost: $20 million
Rhino Savanna, The Living Desert’s new four-acre habitat, immerses guests in an African safari experience. Visitors can observe the majestic black rhinos, unique antelopes like springbok and waterbuck, a variety of birds, and intriguing subterranean animals like the naked mole rat. This large, cutting-edge habitat, hosting twelve species, fosters an appreciation for Africa’s wildlife through thoughtful design, meaningful encounters, and a steadfast commitment to conservation and animal care.
Grundhofer Welcome Plaza and Appel Gift Shop
Phase: 1
Completion Date: November 2018
Total Cost: $10 million
The first phase of our Crossroads of Conservation project began with a new welcome entrance, inaugurated in November 2018. Our Patti and Jack Grundhofer Welcome Plaza has already hosted over 500,000 guests. The upgraded admissions center features expedited and electronic ticketing, enhanced guest services, and a wealth of new amenities. Visitors now enjoy animal encounters, volunteer conservation ambassadors, a serene garden area, and cutting-edge technology for an inspiring experience. An extended range of gifts, specialties, and souvenirs can be found at our Suzan and Bill Appel Gift Shop.
Join the Pride
Way to Support
Way to Support
Way to Support
Alert: Our public funding options will be available in November 2024, but you can support us now through various giving opportunities.
Latest Support News
Desert Hot Springs Trail Clean-up
Get InvolvedDonor Spotlight
Anderson
Nina Williams
Anderson
Nina Williams
Nina Williams
Donor Spotlight
Shaughne Warnack
“The Living Desert’s mission resonated strongly with A.C. and me. For 30 years, we have been members of the Zoo and have fond memories of bringing our grandchildren and great grandchildren for unforgettable visits. It was my honor to contribute to the Lion Ridge project to preserve the lives of all wild animals, especially our favorite lions! Now that A.C. has passed, it has been my privilege to continue his generous spirit of giving. It was through A.C.’s hard work and long hours that he was able to create The Warnack Foundation. A.C.’s legacy will live on as we welcome the lions to the Coachella valley.”