With a goal to elevate guest experience, the Greensboro Science Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, is designing a new café, retail and rental complex that will be part of Expedition Rainforest: The Greensboro Biodome and Aquatic Rehabilitation and Conservation Center (ARCC). In conjunction with the Biodome construction, the upper zoo plaza will be reimagined into a new hub featuring a café, enhanced retail offerings and rental spaces. The new complex will provide improved amenities for members and guests while serving as a welcome gateway to experiences across the campus.
The Greensboro Science Center anticipates its visitor count to increase to over 750,000 per year due to the Biodome construction, making the new food, retail and rental facility necessary.
“The opening of the Biodome-ARCC project will bring a four-in-one science campus to Greensboro. Where else will both citizens and travelers alike be able to experience a rainforest biodome, aquarium, zoological park and science museum all in one location?” says CEO Glenn Dobrogosz. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of one amazing donor who said she wants to be able to have a nice meal and glass of wine after visiting the Biodome, her support singlehandedly triggered the development of a new restaurant and retail complex that will ultimately benefit millions of future guests.”
Vice President of Operations Mitch Inman says the new gift shop and café will feature a rainforest theme, with 2,400 square feet of dedicated retail space.
“This design will align with and extend the experience of the new 32,000-square-foot Biodome being built adjacent to the space, creating a cohesive environment that immerses guests in the rainforest story,” Inman says.
The Greensboro Science Center currently operates an indoor café and gift shop, which Inman says will remain in operation even after the new café and gift shop open. He says the new store will feature zoo-themed merchandise that connects directly to the animals and outdoor experiences guests encounter on their visit, while the existing gift shop will shift to have a stronger focus on science and aquarium-themed merchandise.
“Retail at the Greensboro Science Center is unique because it serves as an extension of the organization’s mission and guest experience, not just a traditional gift shop,” says Inman. “Products are intentionally curated to connect with the animals, exhibits and science themes guests encounter during their visit, helping reinforce learning, curiosity and giving guests a takeaway they will remember for years to come.”
