The Nature Play Playground will be part of Elmwood Park Zoo’s upcoming expansion across Stony Creek. The first phase of the playground will feature nature-themed play units, and further development will add a barn where visitors can touch and pet the animals. This area will be freely open to the community and a welcome space where all of Montgomery County can learn while playing!
OPENING 2026-2027
A Place to Play and Learn
The Nature Play area and outdoor classroom is included in the Zoo’s Master Plan for new North American exhibits. This area will provide space for students, families and casual learners alike to learn together in the great outdoors! The Nature Play area will be outside of the Zoo’s perimeter fence, allowing the public to access these exhibits entirely free of charge!
The playground will be maintained by Elmwood Park Zoo, a 501(c)3 nonprofit (EIN: 23-1970067). Check back here soon for updates, playground renderings and more from our friends at Lyons Recreations!
Pictured: members of the Toni & Rich Memorial Fund Committee (from left to right: Olivia Johnson, Matt Frangiosa, Nicole Nave, Charlie Narciso, Jennifer Fuchs, Theresa Frangiosa, Lillian O’Donnell, Steve Szakal)
Not pictured: Patrick Gallagher, Tom O’Donnell, Michelle Calcagni, Damien Troilo, Michael Murray
The Toni & Rich
Memorial Fund
The Toni & Rich Memorial Fund has been created by family and friends to honor Toni Ann Narciso (Frangiosa) and Richard Nave. These two incredible individuals were taken too early from this world. The Fund has partnered with the Zoo and is actively securing donations for the playground’s development.
To date, the Toni & Rich Memorial Fund has raised over $75,000 for the playground project.
cHALLENGE grant alert!
Thanks to Montco CAC and an anonymous donor, all donations made to the Toni & Rich Memorial Fund will be matched , dollar for dollar — up to $25,000, from July 1st through August 31st.
$100,000
*Goal set by the Toni and Rich Memorial Fund