Currently, the design of zoo exhibition areas in some cities is plagued by several issues, including outdated concepts, a lack of sensory experiences in the environment, and a failure to meet animal welfare needs. Near-natural exhibition design can effectively simulate animals’ natural habitats and encourage them to exhibit their natural behavioral patterns. While foreign research and practice have accumulated rich experience in this regard, domestic development in this field is still in the initial stage. This study takes the exhibition area of the spotted-billed penguin in Ningbo Wildlife Park as a case study, exploring the renovation strategies of the near-natural exhibition area from dual perspectives: optimizing the visitor experience and increasing value. It examines functional zoning, tour route planning, and landscape element configuration in detail. The research results not only provide a replicable technical path for designing similar exhibition areas but also offer theoretical support and practical guidance for transforming traditional zoos into modern ones, encompassing three key dimensions: ecological protection demonstration, natural education scenarios, and sustainable park operation.