WEST ROGERS PARK — The Indian Boundary Park Nature Play Center, featuring bird-attracting gardens, play huts and a pavilion, opens Thursday.
The former zoo grounds have been renovated this year for $300,000.
Native plants and meandering concrete pathways have replaced the animal pens. The zoo's old swan huts have been partially transformed into toy houses for children to play inside.
The old aviary has been transformed into an enclosed pavilion, its fencing wrapped in ivy vines.
The former zoo building, when finished, would have new floors, exposed brick walls, an insulated roof covered with beadboard paneling and a glass garage-style door that opens into the new park, according to plans.
Ald. Debra Silverstein (50th) announced Friday the grand opening of the new park. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for 1 p.m. Thursday at 2500 W. Lunt Ave.
"The new Nature Play Center will transform Indian Boundary Park into an interactive learning and play space for children, as well as a tranquil oasis for the entire family," Silverstein said.
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: