The History of Living Treasures Wild Animal Park in New Castle, Pennsylvania
A Tradition of Wildlife Education, Conservation, and Family Adventure
The History of Living Treasures Wild Animal Park in New Castle, Pennsylvania
Living Treasures Wild Animal Park in New Castle, Pennsylvania is one of Western Pennsylvania's most unique wildlife attractions, providing guests with unforgettable animal encounters, educational experiences, and opportunities to connect with wildlife from around the world.
Home to more than 500 animals representing over 70 species, Living Treasures has become a destination for visitors from Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Erie, Cleveland, and throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio seeking an interactive animal park experience unlike any other.
A Family Legacy Built on a Passion for Animals
The story of Living Treasures began with founder Tom Guiher and his lifelong passion for animals. Beginning in the late 1980s, Tom developed a growing collection of rare and domestic species, dedicating himself to animal care, husbandry, and wildlife education. His vision was simple: create a place where families could experience animals up close while learning about conservation and the natural world.
In 1991, land was acquired near New Castle, Pennsylvania, and construction began on what would become the original Living Treasures Wild Animal Park. Following months of building habitats, fencing, barns, and guest facilities, the park officially opened to the public on Memorial Day weekend in 1992.
Since that opening day, generations of families have visited Living Treasures to create lasting memories while experiencing wildlife in a personal and meaningful way.
Continuing the Vision
Growing up surrounded by animals, Adam Guiher (Tom's son) developed the same passion for wildlife that inspired the park's creation. After spending his childhood helping care for animals and learning the daily operations of the park, Adam purchased the original Living Treasures Wild Animal Park at just 19 years old and began expanding and improving the facility.
Under Adam's leadership, the park has continued to grow through new exhibits, improved habitats, expanded educational opportunities, and new guest experiences designed to bring visitors closer to wildlife than ever before.
Expanding Wildlife Experiences Across Pennsylvania
Building on the success of Living Treasures Wild Animal Park, Adam later founded Keystone Safari in Grove City, Pennsylvania. Today, the parks work together to provide guests with unique opportunities to experience wildlife through animal encounters, educational programs, safari experiences, and conservation-focused exhibits.
Together, Living Treasures Wild Animal Park New Castle and Keystone Safari welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while continuing the family's commitment to animal care, conservation, education, and memorable guest experiences.
Looking Toward the Future
Today, Living Treasures Wild Animal Park remains family-owned and operated, continuing a mission that began more than three decades ago: inspiring people of all ages to appreciate wildlife through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
From pygmy hippos and tapir to clouded leopards, kangaroos, flamingos, dingos, and hundreds of other animals, every visit offers a chance to discover something new while supporting the care and conservation of wildlife.
Whether you're searching for a zoo near Pittsburgh, things to do in New Castle, Pennsylvania, family attractions in Western Pennsylvania, or unforgettable animal encounters, Living Treasures Wild Animal Park invites you to experience wildlife up close.