Zoo & Aquarium Shade Solutions

Summer brings peak zoo and aquarium attendance — and peak sun exposure. Our wind-resistant shade structures help you meet new accreditation requirements while protecting and creating comfortable spaces for animals and guests. Superior Shade offers durable, aesthetically pleasing solutions tailored to your facility's unique needs. Explore our options today.

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Why Shade Enhance Comfort and Well-Being for Guests and Animals

Adding shade to a zoo or aquarium enhances comfort for both guests and animals. 

For visitors, shaded areas provide relief from the sun, creating a more enjoyable experience while reducing the risk of heat exhaustion. For animals, shade structures help regulate temperatures in outdoor habitats, promoting their well-being by minimizing stress and overheating. Additionally, shaded spaces encourage longer visits, improving guest satisfaction and supporting conservation education efforts.

Top Areas to Add Zoo Shade Structures

Strategic shade placement in zoos enhances visitor and animal comfort throughout the facility, from exhibits and walkways to gathering spaces and outdoor dining. Here are some top areas to incorporate shade in your zoo:

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Viewing Areas

Install shade in viewing areas for popular animal exhibits so visitors can observe the animals comfortably.

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Rest Areas and Seating

Place shade structures in designated rest areas and seating areas throughout the zoo.

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Picnic Areas

Create shaded picnic areas where visitors can enjoy their meals or snacks while taking a break.

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Outdoor Dining Spaces

Install shade structures over outdoor dining spaces, such as cafes or food courts within the zoo.

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Animal Enclosures

Incorporate shade in enclosures to provide protection for the animals (especially those sensitive to sunlight).

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Walkways and Pathways

Place shade structures along walkways and pathways to provide visitors with shaded areas.

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Amphitheaters and Show Areas

Add shade structures in amphitheaters or show areas where animal demonstrations or presentations take place.

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Children's Play Areas

Install shade structures over children's play areas to provide shaded spots for young visitors to play and explore.

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Petting Zoos and Animal Encounter Areas

Incorporate shade structures in petting zoos or areas where visitors can interact with animals.

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Queue Lines

Place shade in lines for popular attractions, providing visitors with shade as they wait for their turn.

BE INSPIREDView Some of Our Past Projects

Need some inspiration for your shade design? Explore our completed commercial outdoor shade projects for zoos and aquariums across the United States.

Our Design Process

Let us help you create the perfect shade solution. From design to installation, we make it simple to create your ideal space.

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Consultation

We begin with an on-site consultation to capture your vision, evaluating essential elements like sun patterns, usage needs, and budget to craft your shade design.

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Site Plan & Proposal

We create a detailed site plan with comprehensive pricing that covers products, engineering, shipping, and installation — all tailored to your requirements.

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Project Agreement 

Once you approve, we'll establish a clear project agreement outlining roles and responsibilities for your shade installation. Then, it's time to get started!

Custom Zoo Shade Solutions for Your Space

Superior Shade delivers versatile, custom-designed structures for every area of your facility — from play areas to exhibits. Work with our Certified Partners to select stylish, functional solutions that enhance aesthetics and comfort. Our structures are fully customizable to match your unique environment.

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Reach Out Today Need some help getting started? 

We're here if you're ready to discuss your shade options. We'll ensure we find the right shade solution to make your space feel and look cool.