WHEELING, W.Va. – Oglebay Good Zoo has officially broken ground on its most ambitious project to date: the Gary E. West Pridelands, a lion habitat and immersive viewing area spanning more than 20,000 square feet, set to open in 2026.
Located within Outpost Africa, the zoo’s new multi-species Savanna experience, the Pridelands will be one of the largest lion habitats of its kind in the eastern United States and the only one at an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)- accredited zoo in West Virginia. Once complete, Oglebay Good Zoo will become the first AZA-accredited zoo in the nation to offer a truly immersive carnivore overnight lodging experience—bringing guests face to face with African lions in a dynamic, naturalistic environment.
Outpost Africa will also be home to cheetahs, zebras, red river hogs, and other African species, creating a rich and interactive landscape that blends education, adventure, and awe.
As part of this expansion, guests will be able to book stays in Prideland Villas—immersive, safari-style accommodations offering front-row views of the lions, guided tours, and intimate evening encounters that connect visitors with wildlife in unforgettable ways.
Beyond the guest experience, this project deepens Oglebay Good Zoo’s commitment to global conservation. “With African lion populations having declined more than 43 percent in the past 30 years, a portion of the proceeds from the exhibit will support AZA’s African Lion SAFE Program to protect wild lions and their natural habitats,” said Dr. Joe Greathouse, Director of the Oglebay Good Zoo.
“The Gary E. West Pridelands is more than a new habitat—it’s a bold leap forward for wildlife conservation and guest connection,” said Bob Peckenpaugh, President & CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. “This groundbreaking project will offer an awe-inspiring experience that brings guests closer to lions than ever before, while advancing our mission to protect these incredible animals and the wild places they call home. Outpost Africa marks a defining moment for the Good Zoo, and a powerful legacy for generations to come.”
This transformational project has been made possible through the generous support of Flip West and family, the Colcom Foundation, Helen J. Prince Foundation, WesBanco, Wheeling Tire, and many others. Key partners include the Mills Group, LDL Studio, Allegheny Design Services, Vaughn, Coast & Vaughn, Harper Engineering, Waller Corporation, and WDM Architects.
For more information and ongoing updates, visit oglebay.com/good-zoo or follow Oglebay Good Zoo on social media.
