DENVER (KDVR) — A new "state-of-the-industry" habitat for sea lions is now open at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, with guests able to enjoy front-row seats via a new 16-foot acrylic viewing window.

Construction for the new habitat started in early 2024, when the zoo says it decided the 30-year-old infrastructure needed an upgrade. With the new system, sea lions can enjoy heated pools, a new saltwater filtration, expanded bedrooms and more.

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance said it raised more than $5.5 million for the new habitat from a variety of donors, including the Koelbel Family Foundation, the Anschutz Foundation, the Schlessman Family Foundation, the Kintzele Family, Jenna and Walker Stapleton, and many other "generous donors."

The 16-foot acrylic viewing window isn't the only way attendees can view the sea lions, just above the surface there will also be daily demonstrations at the upper pool viewing area at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The care team will also talk about sea lion training and individual care.

If you check out the new habitat, Luci, Ady, Gunnison and Maverick are the names of the sea lions that are ready to show off their playful gliding, diving, and darting. The zoo said they are also expecting another sea lion, named Nick, to return this fall.