If you live in Owensboro and you're a fan of zoos, you have to love the proximity to such attractions living here affords you. Louisville, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Columbus are all close enough to build a fun weekend around a visit to any of their remarkable zoos.

The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the premiere zoos in the nation and has frequently been in the news over the last several years because of a certain celebrity named Fiona, otherwise known as a national treasure:

It's hard to believe they're one of the most dangerous animals in Africa, isn't it?

I have no doubt that anyone who visits the Cincinnati Zoo carves out time for a "Fiona experience." This October, you'll have to add the largest habitat in Cincinnati Zoo history to your itinerary. That's the date for the opening of Elephant Trek. Since elephants are my favorite animals, I'm already getting excited about a trip. Now, I just have to find the time. Take a look at this thing:

When the Harry and Linda Fath Elephant Trek habitat opens, patrons will enter through the Komminsk Asian Waterfall Gardens and will be able to enjoy the best view of these phenomenal creatures from the Brynne and Robert Coletti Overlook. The massive habitat will also house three different restaurants, giving guests the opportunity to spend a lot of time at this wonderful new attraction.

The Cincinnati Zoo is open from 10 AM to 5 PM EST. Elephant Trek will open Tuesday, October 1st.

Why do giraffes have long necks? Answers to 25 animal evolution questions:

Stacker curated a list of 25 animal evolution questions and answers to explain some scientific mysteries, from why giraffes have such long necks to how ants can carry 50 times their body weight. 

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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