BIRMINGHAM ZOO NAMED ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR BY GREATER BIRMINGHAM CVB

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham Zoo has been named Attraction of the Year by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, recognizing a year where conservation leadership and tourism growth went hand in hand. The award was presented on May 7,2026 at the Red Mountain Theater in Birmingham, Alabama.

During its 70th anniversary year, the Zoo welcomed more than 502,000 visitors, underscoring its role as a leading regional destination. As the only Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoo in Alabama, it continues to connect tourism with meaningful conservation impact.

“This recognition shows how conservation and tourism can work together to create lasting impact,” said Chris Pfefferkorn, President and CEO of the Birmingham Zoo. “Every visit helps support animal care, conservation efforts, and education that reaches far beyond our Zoo.”

A key highlight in 2025 was the opening of Wojciechowski Cougar Crossing, where rescued cougar cubs Juniper and Spruce became powerful ambassadors for wildlife conservation, drawing strong visitor interest and engagement.

Experiences like Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration, along with partnerships including “Symphony Goes Wild” with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and hosting guests during the International Police & Fire Games, helped expand the Zoo’s reach and elevate Birmingham as a destination. The Zoo’s 70^th anniversary campaign created by Lewis Communications encouraged guests to celebrate 70 years of wild. The campaign won best of show locally plus additional awards nationally.

At the same time, the Zoo advanced its mission on inspiring passion to conserve the natural world by introducing 85 new animals. Your Birmingham Zoo also expanded education programs, and enhanced accessibility through its partnership with KultureCity.

“By creating engaging experiences, we’re inspiring people to care about wildlife while also supporting Birmingham’s tourism economy,” Pfefferkorn added. “This is a win-win for all of us, including our spectacular animals. To continue the momentum of our 70^th year, we brought in new animals plus Dino Safari this year which has proven to be very popular with our guests,” he said. “Look for more new experiences throughout the year.”

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MEDIA CONTACT 

Bill Lang – Director, Marketing & Events; [email protected]; 205.218.3561.

SOCIAL MEDIA  – Facebook @BirminghamZoo; Instagram @bhamzoo

www.birminghamzoo.com I 2630 Cahaba Road I Birmingham, AL 35223

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THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO MISSION Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.