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From Zoo to Sanctuary: Crandon Park's Transformation

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Crandon Park Zoo in Florida closed after a hurricane devastated the area in the 1980s, forcing relocation of surviving animals.
The Crandon Park Zoo was established in the 1940s as Miami's first zoo.
In 1991, Crandon Park Zoo ruins were transformed into gardens preserving the site.
During an October 2021 visit, the author found remnants of Crandon Park Zoo, now a wildlife sanctuary with graffiti and overgrowth.

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Story summary

The Crandon Park Zoo in Florida closed after a hurricane devastated the area in the 1980s, forcing relocation of surviving animals.
The Crandon Park Zoo was established in the 1940s as Miami's first zoo.
In 1991, Crandon Park Zoo ruins were transformed into gardens preserving the site.
During an October 2021 visit, the author found remnants of Crandon Park Zoo, now a wildlife sanctuary with graffiti and overgrowth.