A Complete Guide To The Best Zoos In Michigan, USA

1) Detroit Zoo

https://detroitzoo.org/

Nestled in Royal Oak, Michigan, the Detroit Zoo is a sprawling 125-acre sanctuary that is home to 245 species of animals.

Known for its focus on conservation and education, this vast abode is truly a paradise for animal-lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Among the more notable residents of this zoo are the majestic tigers, gregarious giraffes, robust bears, playful penguins, and regal lions.

The sight of kangaroos hopping around, camels ambling by, and zebras prancing adds to the charm of this place.

Visiting the entire zoo takes approximately 2-3 hours, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.

One of the key aspects of the Detroit Zoo is its commitment to making the experience enjoyable for everyone.

The zoo is equipped for disability access; however, visitors should note that the region has some hilly and sloped areas with walkways made of a combination of paved, gravel, and woodchipped surfaces.

The zoo is particularly well-suited for families with older children and offers a reasonable pricing structure ranging from $12-19 for child and concessional tickets and $14-23 for adults.

Moreover, children under two years of age get free entry, making it affordable for a family of four at approximately $84.

Amenities at the zoo include ample parking available at $8 per car, food stalls aplenty, although visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drink.

The zoo, however, does not permit holding animals or bringing pet dogs, although service animals are legally allowed.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Michigan For Families

2) Binder Park Zoo

https://binderparkzoo.org/

Located in the heart of Battle Creek, Michigan, Binder Park Zoo offers a full day out of awe-inspiring experiences that connect you with the world of wildlife.

Covering an extensive 433 acres, this zoo is home to a myriad of fascinating animals including giraffes, sloths, bears, and lions.

A typical tour here would typically last between 3 to 5 hours, allowing you to observe and admire the vast array of animal species the zoo proudly conserves.

Designed with convenience in mind, Binder Park Zoo is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities, with rentable equipment available to enhance their experience.

The zoo aims to inspire families, particularly those with older children, with its breathtaking exhibits and interactive features.

With adult tickets reasonably priced at $16.75 and children’s tickets at $15.75, a family of four can enjoy an unforgettable zoo experience for just $65.

Remember, children under the age of 2 are granted free entry! Although the zoo lacks public transport access, it offers ample free parking for visitors.

While you can’t bring your own food and drink, rest assured you’ll find plenty of food stalls within the zoo to cater to your hunger pangs.

Please note that handling the animals is not permitted at this zoo, and while pet dogs are not allowed, service animals are welcomed.

For more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Binder Park Zoo.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Michigan For Toddlers

3) Potter Park Zoo

https://potterparkzoo.org/

Located in Lansing, Michigan, the Potter Park Zoo is a remarkable destination filled with a myriad of thrilling sights, from magnificent tigers to adorable penguins, and from majestic lions to other fascinating creatures.

This 102-acre park takes pride in its devotion to conservation and strives intensively to educate the public about the significance of protecting our wildlife.

Besides the enlightening experience, the zoo also offers a day full of laughter and memorable family fun.

It caters tirelessly to its guests’ desires, from providing concession stands for bites-to-go to permitting families to bring their lunch and snacks inside the park.

Potter Park Zoo is also known for providing exceptional disability access.

They go the extra mile to ensure a phenomenal experience for everyone by offering rentable equipment for guests with mobility issues.

This inclusivity combined with the wide range of animals and attractions cements its appeal for families with older children, who can typically navigate the park in about 2 to 3 hours.

Tickets are reasonably priced ranging from $5 for children, $8 to $15 for adults and $6 to $13 for groups qualifying for concessions.

Children under the age of 3 are invited to explore the park free of charge.

Parking is readily available for a small fee between $3 to $5 per car.

For more specific information, including details pertaining to the use of service animals, potential guests should directly contact the park.

Embark on a thrilling journey with your family at Potter Park Zoo and create memories you’ll cherish forever.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Michigan For Dogs

4) John Ball Zoo

jbzoo.org

Located in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, John Ball Zoo offers an extensive display of nature’s finest.

The zoo sprawls across 31 acres of unique ecosystems and habitats, home to over 200 species of animals including tigers, bears, penguins, and lions.

With an emphasis on conservation and sustainability, John Ball Zoo aims to provide a platform for education and awareness about our wildlife and environment.

Navigating through the zoo’s myriad of attractions takes an average of two hours, an adventure that can be comfortably undertaken by families with toddlers, older children and even people with disabilities, as the facility provides accessible pathways and the convenience of rentable equipment.

John Ball Zoo doesn’t only cater to a memorable wildlife experience but also offers various food and drink options in its premises.

They have something for everybody, making the experience enjoyable for all ages.

The zoo’s entry fees are affordable with adult tickets priced at $20, child and concession tickets at $15.

An average family of four can have a fun-filled day here for just $70.

Furthermore, the zoo even offers free entry to children under two years of age.

It’s also important to note that although pets aren’t allowed inside, service animals are very much welcome.

There’s ample parking available and it’s free, a convenience for those planning to visit the zoo by car as it can’t be accessed by public transport.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Michigan For Disability Access

5) Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park

http://www.garlynzoo.com/

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park, located in Mackinac County, Michigan offers a delightful afternoon for the whole family.

Nestled within 30 acres of natural beauty, the zoo is a haven for a variety of creatures.

Visitors have the opportunity to admire and learn about a range of animals including bears, lions, tigers and sloths.

However, what truly sets Garlyn Zoo apart is its size.

Boasting a collection that is big enough to intrigue yet small enough not to overwhelm, it’s an ideal destination for families with toddlers and older children.

Average time spent exploring this natural oasis is estimated at around 1.5 hours.

Getting to the Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park can be a bit challenging as public transport doesn’t serve the area, but the reward is ample free parking once you arrive.

Entrance fees are reasonable with Adults priced at $15 and children tickets $7.5.

The best part, children under the age of 2 enter free of charge.

For a family of four, this averages out to a total cost of $45.

The Zoo is also well-equipped for visitors with disabilities, offering mulch paths for easier access.

Food stalls are scattered throughout the park for a quick snack, but if you prefer you can bring your own picnic.

While the zoo discourages interacting with and holding the animals, there are ample opportunities for viewing and photography.

Please note, pet dogs are not permitted inside, but service animals are allowed.

For more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly zoo staff.

6) DeYoung Family Zoo

https://thedeyoungfamilyzoo.com/

Nestled in the picturesque region of Wallace, Michigan, the DeYoung Family Zoo is a delight to discover.

A sprawling 79 acre expanse turns out to be an immersive wildlife experience, home to an impressive count of 450 animals.

It’s a veritable haven for animal lovers who can soak up sights of majestic tigers, sloths, bears, and even penguins! This large, spacious zoo facilitates a thorough exploration of its extensive offerings in a 2-3 hour duration, making it a rewarding excursion that reveals the nuances of various animal kingdoms.

Being wheelchair accessible, the DeYoung Family Zoo provides inclusive fun for everyone without compromising convenience.

While certain paths may pose a slight challenge, the zoo is largely traversable and suitable even for families with older children.

The zoo strikes an attractive balance between affordability and value, offering adult, child, and concession tickets priced at $16, $14, and $15 respectively, and extending free entry to children under the age of two.

It’s also accommodating to our courageous military heroes by offering them free concessions.

For an average family of four, a day of riveting safari encounters comes at an economical $60.

Conveniently, you can avoid any hassle of finding food outlets, since you’re allowed to bring your own refreshments.

Additionally, parking is hassle-free and free of charge as well, with the zoo maintaining its own parking lot.

It’s worth noting, however, that accessibility to public transport remains a caveat.

As you look forward to a thrilling escapade, do remember that the zoo’s policy doesn’t permit holding of animals or bringing pet dogs, although service animals are legally welcome.

Get in touch with DeYoung Family Zoo for a more detailed overview.

7) Saginaw Children’s Zoo

https://www.saginawzoo.com/

If you’re seeking a delightful and engaging family adventure, the Saginaw Children’s Zoo in Michigan, USA is the perfect destination to consider.

This charming zoo, spanning over 10 enchanted acres, is home to a plethora of captivating small animals such as sloths, penguins, llamas, rabbits, and crocodiles.

With around 150 animals to marvel at, it provides the perfect environment for both adults and children to engage with nature.

Despite its vast offerings, the zoo can be easily covered within an average timeframe of 1.5 hours, making it an excellent choice for a family day trip.

The Saginaw Children’s Zoo is not just a destination; it’s a haven for families in all situations.

Pathways through the zoo are mainly paved, making it easily accessible for visitors with disabilities.

It provides a friendly and enjoyable experience for families with older children as well as those with toddlers.

Budget-friendly ticket prices of just $7 per adult and child, and $5 for concessions, make it an affordable choice.

The total price for a family of four is just $28, moreover, children under the age of one enjoy free access.

While public transportation doesn’t reach the zoo, it gives ample parking space free of charge.

There are food stalls on-site, but guests are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks.

However, remember that pet dogs are not allowed - though service animals are welcomed.

Sadly, you won’t be able to hold any of the animals, but the awe-inspiring sight of these diverse species provides enough joy to fill your trip.

For any additional information, it’s best to contact the zoo directly.

8) Roscommon Zoo

https://www.roscommonzoo.com/

Nestled in the quaint state of Michigan is the charming Roscommon Zoo, a small, independent haven for animal lovers.

Situated across 20 acres of picturesque landscape, the zoo is home to a diverse range of animals including majestic tigers, adorable llamas, and curious kangaroos.

Tailored as an ideal afternoon out for families with older children and toddlers, Roscommon Zoo provides a hands-on experience in a relaxed setting that encapsulates the natural beauty within which its inhabitants reside.

Admission to the zoo is incredibly affordable, with adult tickets priced at $15, while children and concession tickets cost only $12.

This allows a usual family of four to enjoy an exciting day out for merely $54.

Moreover, they generously offer free access to children under the age of two.

While the Roscommon Zoo may not be accessible via public transport, it does offer ample parking spaces completely free of charge, taking the stress out of travel preparation for visitors.

For those considering a meal break, the zoo has various food stalls available.

Uniquely, guests are also allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages, making the experience ever more personalized and comfortable.

As much as the zoo loves its animals, they unfortunately do not permit any visitors to bring their pet dogs.

Service animals, however, are legally accepted.

A visit to Roscommon Zoo, which houses over 120 animals, averages at approximately 1.5 hours - a perfect slice of your day dedicated to the exploration of wildlife and nature.

9) Indian Creek Zoo

https://indiancreekzoo.com/

Nestled in the heart of Toledo, in the state of Michigan, the Indian Creek Zoo covers an expansive 36 acres of natural beauty.

Housing over 400 animals, this family-friendly zoo is a remarkable spot for a day out, or an adventurous field trip.

The wildlife ranges from native and exotic species, from prowling tigers and towering giraffes, to slow-moving sloths and lumbering bears.

This zoo is a canvas, that vividly paints the awe of the natural world in the hearts of its visitors.

Apart from its incredible variety of wildlife, Indian Creek Zoo also stands out for its commendable accessibility features.

With its dedicated wheelchair route, the zoo is fully accessible for people with disabilities.

It’s a space that welcomes everyone, including families with toddlers and older children alike.

Some might spend about two hours on average exploring the zoo, while others may take their time to bask in the splendor of nature all day.

Unfortunately, the zoo is not accessible by public transport, but it offers ample and complimentary parking for those who choose to drive.

For refreshments, food stalls dot the premises, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Please remember, while we all adore our pets, they are not permitted within the zoo, although service animals are legally allowed.

For an unforgettable encounter with nature, visit Indian Creek Zoo, you and your family will not be disappointed!

10) Wilderness Trails Zoo

https://wildernesstrailszoo.org/

Tucked away in Saginaw, Michigan is the enchanting Wilderness Trails Zoo.

Displaying a diverse collection of over 200 animals, ranging from the delightful capybaras to the regal lions, this zoo offers a natural and intimate encounter with some of the world’s most exotic creatures.

Spread across an impressive 56 acres of lush landscape, the zoo plunges you into a realm where anxiety fades away and curiosity takes the driver’s seat.

It is not just a visual treat for enthusiastic wildlife explorers but also ensures accessibility, as trails have been designed to accommodate those with disabilities.

An average tour around Wilderness Trails Zoo can take between 2-3 hours, ensuring ample time for families, particularly those with older children, to thoroughly observe, understand and appreciate the vibrant wildlife.

Adult tickets stand at $16 each while children and concession tickets are priced at $14 and $13 respectively.

A family of four can enjoy all the zoo’s attractions for an economical price of $60, and what’s more, children under the age of 2 are welcomed into the zoo for free.

While the zoo cannot be accessed by public transport, it does provide ample free parking for its visitors.

If hunger strikes, fret not as food stalls are available within the premises; you are also welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

While personal pet dogs are not allowed in the park, the Wilderness Trails Zoo ensures that service animals are legally permitted to enter.

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