When Columbus Zoo (OH) decided to expand and revitalize their popular Zoombezi Bay waterpark, they once again turned to the experts at Aquatic Development Group, Inc. (ADG) for the design and development of their new feature area, Baboon Lagoon, which opened on May 17th, 2014.
Formerly known as Barracuda Bay, Baboon Lagoon was developed to take advantage of improvements in “safer play” technologies and replace the older multi-level play structure and surrounding pool area. And with 16 life-size baboon figurines and a giant octopus at the base, Baboon Lagoon is an animal themed attraction that is sure to stimulate the imagination and create exciting “hands-on” exploration for all.
“Since (Barracuda Bay) was a little older feature of the water park, we decided to demolish that whole area and build Baboon Lagoon,” said zoo spokeswoman, Jennifer Wilson. “It’s completely brand new and interactive, especially designed for children ages two through ten.”
At approximately 7,000 square feet and 42 feet tall, Baboon Lagoon is the centerpiece of Zoombezi Bay. ADG designed the new multi-level play structure with 90 interactive aquatic controls, 10 exciting waterslides, heated water and the iconic 1,000 gallon water tipping bucket. To complement the high energy play of the multi-level play structure, there is also an ‘active zone’ which at approximately 3,800 square feet, surrounds all of Baboon Lagoon and includes water basketball, open swim, multiple water falls, and a challenging ropes course.
An additional 3,200 square foot shallow zone caters specifically to guests under 36 inches in height. With lower, less aggressive water play, this area contains fountains, a rockscape waterfall, and columns along the perimeter that spray water. Vibrant colors, moving parts, splashing water, and no lines will add to the already exciting family experience.
As in all of ADG’s parks, the comfort and enjoyment of park guests is an essential component in any of their designs. With Zoombezi Bay, they expanded the play area to offer 360-degree access to Baboon Lagoon and included more lounge chairs in the sunbathing area for guests to kick back and relax.
To complement the park, six brand new “Funbrellas” and an overhead trellis on either side of the play structure supply guests with a welcome respite in the shade. In addition, twelve new cabanas give park guests a chance to lounge in style, each complete with an overhead fan, a safe to secure your belongings, a refrigerator and your own private wait staff.
Designed for maximum guest enjoyment, Zoombezi Bay provides an unending supply of interactive and refreshing fun, making the Columbus Zoo visit a very memorable event for its guests.
ADG is the largest single provider of aquatic equipment in the world and has been for more than four decades. ADG continues to provide exceptional equipment and project services to more than 4,000 public, scholastic, leisure resort and amusement facilities throughout the US and Eastern Canada. ADG understands that every project deserves a custom approach, requiring a unique mix of products and design layout to maximize guest satisfaction and return on investment for our clients. The ADG Project Services team has earned an exceptional reputation for success with clients including Six Flags, Wilderness Resorts, Cedar Fair, Kalahari Resorts, Dollywood, Disney, Intrawest and Paramount Parks. From amusement parks, resorts & hotels and municipalities, to zoos & aquariums, Hollywood movies and even local backyards, no other aquatics corporation in the world has the ability to follow a project though from concept to completion like ADG.
