Go Wild!

From lush urban parks to sprawling natural landscapes, Michigan’s zoos offer unforgettable experiences for animal lovers of all ages.

With opportunities to meet a giraffe face-to-face, watch polar bears swim at eye-level or to stroll through cutting-edge exhibits, these four standout zoos showcase the best of wildlife education and conservation.

JOHN BALL ZOO – GRAND RAPIDS

Nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, John Ball Zoo is an interactive wonderland. Stretching across 140 acres, the zoo lets visitors immerse themselves in wildlife encounters, from feeding penguins and porcupines to ziplining over animal habitats. The park’s Funicular offers a thrilling perspective, and younger visitors love the face-painting and daily animal programs. John Ball Zoo’s commitment to conservation is evident in its support of species from around the world, including red pandas and African lions.

DETROIT ZOO – ROYAL OAK

Spanning 125 acres, the Detroit Zoo is a beloved Michigan institution. Its iconic Polk Penguin Conservation Center is the largest penguinarium in the world, where visitors can observe these playful birds dive and glide through expansive underwater galleries. The zoo also features a state-of-the-art Arctic Ring of Life, home to polar bears, seals, and arctic foxes. Strolling through the lush trails, you’ll encounter over 2,000 animals, including red kangaroos and the majestic Amur tiger. Educational programs and interactive exhibits make this a top destination for families.

BINDER PARK ZOO – BATTLE CREEK

Take a journey to the wilds of Africa at Binder Park Zoo, home to Wild Africa, a 50-acre, cage-free savanna exhibit where you can hand-feed towering giraffes. The animals in Wild Africa, which also include zebras, ostriches, and gazelles, roam freely. To get a closer view, visitors can walk along a one-way, 0.8-mile loop that resembles a trail inside an African national park, creating a safari-like adventure right here in Michigan. Binder Park also focuses on local ecosystems, featuring native wildlife and conservation initiatives.

POTTER PARK ZOO – LANSING

Located near downtown Lansing, Potter Park Zoo is a compact gem. With over 500 animals, including black rhinos and snow leopards, the zoo combines intimate exhibits with a family-friendly atmosphere. The bird aviary and farmyard are highlights, and seasonal events make every visit unique.

LEWIS FARMS – NEW ERA

If seeing animals just isn’t enough, consider one of Michigan’s premier petting zoos: Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo in New Era. While the farm has no shortage of things for families to do, including a giant slide, splash park and giant bounce pads–the real draw are the animals who live there. From wallabies to lemurs, otters to camels, you can plan an entire day around visiting with exotic creatures. The farm offers animal encounter upgrades which include feeding, interacting, photo ops and more with a host of animals, including kangaroos, sloths, lemurs and capybaras. There are select dates for the encounters and reservations are required, so be sure to book ahead.

PHOTO: Amur tiger – Potter Park Zoo, Lansing (Melissa Tucker)