The Best Zoo In Michigan, USA For Dogs

Michigan, the Great Lakes State, is renowned for many things, but did you know that it is also home to some fantastic zoos that are dog-friendly? That's right, not only does Michigan boast stunning landscapes and rich history, but it also offers a paradise for dog owners looking to visit zoos with their four-legged companions in tow.

Join us as we embark on a unique journey to discover the best zoos in Michigan that welcome every member of the family, including those furry, four-legged ones! This feature will surely get those tails wagging.

The Best Zoo In Michigan, USA For Dogs

At A Glance

While the state of Michigan proudly boasts of an array of impressive zoos teeming with diverse species of wildlife, these venues are, regretfully, not designed for canine exploration.

Across the board, zoos in Michigan uphold strict policies prohibiting the entry of dogs and other pets for a variety of reasons.

Primarily, this is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the zoo’s inhabitants and the visiting pets alike, as interactions between unfamiliar animal species can breed unpredictable situations.

Additionally, the presence of pets could potentially disrupt the habitats and disturb the routines of the animals in their care.

While our furry friends might enjoy such an adventure, for the moment, it’s best to reserve zoo visits for our human family members only.

Other Zoos To Enjoy

There are so many other great zoos to enjoy in Michigan.

If you want to try another zoo, then one of these might be right for you.

Detroit Zoo

Detroit Zoo

https://detroitzoo.org/

About Detroit Zoo

Located in Royal Oak, Michigan, The Detroit Zoo spans a massive 125 acres and is home to 245 diverse species of animals, including exotic creatures such as tigers, giraffes, bears, penguins, and lions, just to name a few.

This sizable zoo offers much to explore and can take visitors an average of 2-3 hours to fully appreciate all the attractions it has to offer.

Its emphasis on conservation and education makes it an enriching visit for everyone, especially families with older children.

Though the zoo has some hilly and sloped areas, it is noted for its disability access, with walkways consisting of a combinastion of paved, gravel, and woodchipped surfaces.

The Detroit Zoo also planning a visit to Detroit Zoo is straightforward.

Adult tickets range from $14-23, with tickets for children and concessions costing between $12-19.

To cater for families, a family of four can expect to spend an average total of $84.

A special amenity for families is that children under the age of two are given free entry.

However, food stalls are also available within the zoo for quick snacks and meals, although visitors are allowed to bring their own food and beverages as well.

Please note that visitors are prohibited from holding any of the zoo’s animals.

Service animals are permitted inside, but bringing pet dogs is not allowed in order to protect the welfare and safety of the resident creatures.

Visitors can reach out to the zoo for more specific details.

While there is no public transport access to the zoo, ample parking is available at the cost of $8 per car.

The Detroit Zoo truly offers a large, fun, and educational journey for the whole family, wrapped in a commitment to animal conservation.

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More About Detroit Zoo

Size (acres) 125
Time To Walk Around 2-3 Hours
Adult Price $14-23
Child Price $12-19
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $84
Parking $8
Number Of Animals 245 species
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://detroitzoo.org/

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Binder Park Zoo

Binder Park Zoo

https://binderparkzoo.org/

About Binder Park Zoo

Situated over a sprawling 433 acres in Battle Creek, Michigan, the Binder Park Zoo is an engaging adventure waiting to unfold.

A day out here is not just about fun and leisure, but it is also about connecting with nature and inspiring conservation.

Housing a wide array of animals such as giraffes, sloths, bears, and lions, this zoo offers an immersive experience that is perfect for families with older children.

The zoo’s vast expanse takes around 3-5 hours to explore thoroughly, and trust us, you wouldn’t want to leave any stone unturned!

Accessibility is a highlight of Binder Park Zoo as it offers disability access, making it welcoming for all guests.

Rentable equipment for enhanced mobility ensures that no part of the zoo remains unexplored.

With an adult ticket priced at $16.75 and children’s and concession tickets at $15.75, a family of four can enjoy an enriching day out for just $65.

Kids under the age of 2 enjoy free entry, so there’s an added incentive for parents with toddlers.

The zoo has ample parking available and the best part is, it’s free! Food stalls inside the zoo ensure that you don’t have to carry any food and drinks.

They steer clear of pets but are fully accessible for service animals.

Contact these delightful conservationists at the Binder Park Zoo for a day full of learning, fun, and unforgettable memories.

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More About Binder Park Zoo

Size (acres) 433
Time To Walk Around 3-5 Hours
Adult Price $16.75
Child Price $15.75
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $65
Parking Free
Can Bring Your Own Food? No

Information from https://binderparkzoo.org/

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Potter Park Zoo

Potter Park Zoo

https://potterparkzoo.org/

About Potter Park Zoo

Potter Park Zoo, found in the picturesque city of Lansing, Michigan, USA, is a wonderland for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.

Famed for its incredible assortment of creatures such as lions, tigers, and penguins, the zoo is much more than a mere spectacle; it’s an ongoing effort in conservation, education, and family fun.

Well-suited for a full day out, the expansive zoo spans across 102 acres where a memorable journey of discovery unfolds for every visitor.

The average time to explore all its attractions is between 2 and 3 hours which makes it a delightful destination for parents with older children.

Moreover, the zoo is well equipped for disability access, making it a quintessential adventure for everyone.

Entering the Potter Park Zoo is an affordable delight for groups of all sizes.

An adult ticket typically costs between $8 and $15, and for children, admission is reduced to just $5.

Notable is the concessional ticket, ranging from $6 - $13, making it a budget-friendly destination for seniors and students.

Impressively, children below the age of 3 enjoy free entry! To top it all off, the average cost for a family of four is roughly around $40, making it an economically appealing day out.

The zoo does include accessible parking between the price range of $3-5 per car but unfortunately isn’t accessible by public transport.

Food lovers will be delighted to know food stalls dot the park all around and visitors are also allowed to bring their own food and drink.

However, keep in mind that while service animals are allowed, pet dogs are not welcomed, and holding the animals is a strict no-no.

All these measures ensure that Potter Park Zoo remains a vibrant, secure, and joyful destination for a valuable family day out.

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More About Potter Park Zoo

Size (acres) 102
Time To Walk Around 2-3 Hours
Adult Price $8-15
Child Price $5
Infant Price Free Under 3 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $40
Parking $3-5
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://potterparkzoo.org/

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John Ball Zoo

John Ball Zoo

jbzoo.org

About John Ball Zoo

  • 1300 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, United States
  • 16-336-4300
  • jbzoo.org

John Ball Zoo, located in the engaging city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a must for animal lovers on a visit to this state.

As a passionate champion of animal conservation and sustainability, the zoo provides a home to approximately 200 species, including fascinating creatures such as tigers, bears, penguins, and lions.

Spanning 31 acres, the zoo offers a bounty of attractions that can typically be covered in about two hours.

From big cats prowling in their enclosures to friendly penguins entertaining the crowd, John Ball Zoo provides endless surprises for its visitors.

The zoo is particularly family-friendly, being an ideal destination for families with both older children and toddlers.

For guests with disabilities, the zoo offers easy accessibility and the option to rent necessary equipment.

The cost to visit is reasonable, with adult tickets priced at $20 and children’s and concessions tickets at $15.

Entrance for children under age two is free, making a family trip for a party of four an affordable outing at a total of $70.

In terms of amenities, adequate parking that is available for free, and visitors have the choice of enjoying the variety of food available at stalls, or even bringing their own packed meals.

Do note that personal pets aren’t permitted, although legally recognized service animals are allowed.

For any further information, potential visitors are encouraged to contact the zoo directly.

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More About John Ball Zoo

Size (acres) 31
Time To Walk Around 2 Hours
Adult Price $20
Child Price $15
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $70
Parking Free
Number Of Animals 200 species
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from jbzoo.org

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Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park

http://www.garlynzoo.com/

About Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park, nestled in the picturesque Mackinac County in Michigan, is home to a charming array of animals like tigers, bears, lions and sloths.

This small yet fascinating zoo provides the perfect family outing that’s both enjoyable and educational.

With the park spanning across 30 acres, visitors can expect approximately 1.5 hours of adventure exploring the various attractions, making it the perfect family afternoon out.

The park not only prioritizes visitor experience but is also highly considerate towards accessibility.

Visitors with disabilities can easily access the location, thanks to the mulch pathways the park has in place.

Keeping affordability in mind, an adult ticket costs $15, while children get to enjoy the remarkable wilderness for just $7.5, with children under two granted free entry.

Families with toddlers and older children will find the zoo a delightful treat.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that the zoo does not have access to public transport but offers plentiful free parking for visitors.

Savor the delicious spread at the various food stalls sprinkled around the park, or feel free to pack your lunch since the park allows bringing your own food and drinks.

While pet dogs are not permitted, service animals are welcome.

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More About Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park

Size (acres) 30
Time To Walk Around 1.5 Hours
Adult Price $15
Child Price $7.5
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $45
Parking Free
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from http://www.garlynzoo.com/

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DeYoung Family Zoo

DeYoung Family Zoo

https://thedeyoungfamilyzoo.com/

About DeYoung Family Zoo

Situated in the small town of Wallace in Michigan, USA, the DeYoung Family Zoo offers an array of exciting wildlife experiences for its visitors.

Spread across 79 acres, this large and spacious zoo offers a home to roughly 450 animals, boasting a broad variety among its inhabitants which includes remarkable species such as tigers, sloths, bears and even penguins.

The zoo provides an engaging, hands-off experience where visitors can marvel at the animals’ natural behaviors, adding a unique touch to the standard zoo visit.

Accessibility and affordability constitute a significant part of DeYoung Family Zoo’s appeal.

Ideal for families with older children, the zoo has provisions for disability access, with most areas being wheelchair accessible, although some areas feature tricky paths.

A visit to this astounding zoo typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours on average, providing an economical yet enriching outing for families; an average family of four can expect a visit to cost around $60 in total.

Furthermore, free admission is offered to children under the age of 2, and military personnel avail concession tickets at $15, or even free entry.

Worth noting, though the zoo lacks public transport accessibility, ample parking space is provided, allowing patrons to avoid the trouble of seeking alternative parking.

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More About DeYoung Family Zoo

Size (acres) 79
Time To Walk Around 2-3 Hours
Adult Price $16
Child Price $14
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $60
Parking Free
Number Of Animals 450
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://thedeyoungfamilyzoo.com/

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Saginaw Children’s Zoo

Saginaw Children's Zoo

https://www.saginawzoo.com/

About Saginaw Children’s Zoo

Nestled in the lovely state of Michigan, USA, lies the Saginaw Children’s Zoo, a ten-acre haven for over 150 delightful creatures, from the lethargic slow-motion world of sloths to the enchanting realms of penguins, Llamas, rabbits, and even crocodiles.

This zoo provides an engaging experience, especially for families looking to embark on an educational trip together.

Being one of the landmarks in Saginaw, it’s an ideal destination showcasing an impressive selection of small animals that are sure to enchant both adults and children alike.

Visitors will appreciate the zoo’s well-maintained disability access with most paths paved for ease of movement.

This feature makes it suitable for families with older children and even those with toddlers.

An average tour lasts around 1.5 hours, a brief but fulfilling journey into the world of animals.

A family of four can enjoy all these for an affordable price of $28.

Furthermore, entry is free for children under the age of one.

While there are food stalls available within the premises, families are also given the freedom to bring their own food and drinks.

Please note that personal pets, except for service animals, are not permitted in the zoo.

For a touch of convenience, there’s readily available parking at no extra cost.

Unfortunately, public transport access is not provided, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

The Saginaw Children’s Zoo is certainly a place where fun, education, and family bond harmoniously.

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More About Saginaw Children’s Zoo

Size (acres) 10
Time To Walk Around 1.5 Hours
Adult Price $7
Child Price $7
Infant Price Free Under 1 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $28
Parking Free
Number Of Animals 150
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://www.saginawzoo.com/

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Roscommon Zoo

Roscommon Zoo

https://www.roscommonzoo.com/

About Roscommon Zoo

Tucked away in the heart of Michigan, USA, in the small town of Roscommon, you’ll find Roscommon Zoo, a hidden gem among the state’s popular attractions.

Spanning across a 20-acre property, this independent and family-friendly zoo offers a wonderful array of animals, from majestic tigers to friendly Llamas and adorable kangaroos.

With a total of 120 different animal inhabitants, this small zoo is sure to pique the interest of any animal enthusiast.

One advantage is that it’s an ideal excursion not just for families with older children, but also an excellent destination for those with toddlers, thanks to its manageable size and experiential offerings.

Despite its size, a visit to Roscommon Zoo takes approximately 1.5 hours to fully enjoy all the attractions.

The pricing is reasonable, with Adult tickets at $15, Child and Concession tickets at $12, and free entry for children under the age of 2.

This makes the total price for an average family of four just $54.

If you are planning to drive, the zoo offers free parking.

Unfortunately, public transport access is not available.

For those wanting refreshments during their visit, the zoo offers food stalls and the uniqueness of this zoo is that it also allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks.

Note, however, that while you can enjoy watching the animals, holding them is not permitted due to safety considerations.

Pets are also not allowed within the zoo, with the exception only for service animals.

For more information, prospective visitors should reach out to the zoo directly.

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More About Roscommon Zoo

Size (acres) 20
Time To Walk Around 1.5 Hours
Adult Price $15
Child Price $12
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $54
Parking Free
Number Of Animals 120
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://www.roscommonzoo.com/

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Indian Creek Zoo

Indian Creek Zoo

https://indiancreekzoo.com/

About Indian Creek Zoo

Situated in the heart of Toledo, Michigan lies a treasure trove of exotic creatures - the Indian Creek Zoo.

Spanning over 36 acres of lush greenery, this fantastic family-oriented zoo is home to 400 incredibly diverse animals, from playful tigers and lofty giraffes to intriguing sloths and powerful bears.

The zoo is perfect for families with older children and toddlers alike, providing a truly immersive nature experience that allows for meaningful and fun-filled encounters with the animal kingdom.

There’s a specific route dedicated to wheelchair access, making it inclusive and accessible for disabled visitors.

Service animals are also allowed, though pet dogs are not permitted.

Visitors are advised to dedicate roughly two hours of their day to fully explore all that the Indian Creek Zoo has to offer, but the memories created will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Adult tickets are fairly priced at $16, while entry for children costs $14.

There’s also a consessions ticket available at $15, designed for seniors or military personnel.

A day out for an average family of 4 costs only $60, and infants under the age of two get in for free.

Keep in mind that while the zoo is not accessible by public transport, free parking is available on-site for visitors.

Food stalls within the zoo offer a variety of snacks, but guests are also welcome to bring their own food and beverages.

Please note the zoo does maintain a strict policy against holding any animals.

For more details, don’t hesitate to reach out to the zoo directly.

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More About Indian Creek Zoo

Size (acres) 36
Time To Walk Around 2 Hours
Adult Price $16
Child Price $14
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $60
Parking Free
Number Of Animals 400 animals
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://indiancreekzoo.com/

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Wilderness Trails Zoo

Wilderness Trails Zoo

https://wildernesstrailszoo.org/

About Wilderness Trails Zoo

Located in the vibrant city of Saginaw, Michigan, Wilderness Trails Zoo is a natural oasis that offers intimate encounters with exotic wildlife.

With a passionate commitment to animal care and welfare, the zoo spans across a sprawling 56 acres and houses over 200 animals, from the largest capybaras to the mightiest of lions and bears.

Its beautifully natural landscape offers a more authentic interaction with these majestic creatures, while carefully designed trails provide suitable access for all, including those with disabilities.

Wilderness Trails Zoo is an excellent destination for families with older children, given the estimated time of 2-3 hours to fully immerse oneself in all the attractions the zoo has to offer.

Parents will be pleased to know that children under the age of 2 have free entry, and tickets maintain excellent value, with an adult pass priced at $16 and a child’s ticket at $14.

Concession tickets are also available at $13, making a family day out affordable at an average total of $60 for a family of four.

Though public transportation access may not be on offer, ample free parking is available and guests are welcomed to pack their own picnic to enjoy amidst the natural surroundings.

While pets are not permitted, all service animals are legally allowed entry.

Please reach out to the zoo directly for further information about their offerings and accessibility options.

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More About Wilderness Trails Zoo

Size (acres) 56
Time To Walk Around 2-3 Hours
Adult Price $16
Child Price $14
Infant Price Free Under 2 Years Old
Price For Family Of 4 $60
Parking Free
Number Of Animals Over 200 animals
Can Bring Your Own Food? Yes

Information from https://wildernesstrailszoo.org/

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In conclusion, Michigan offers a diverse selection of zoos perfect for dog-friendly day trips.

Each offers a unique array of smells, sights, and sounds for our four-legged friends to explore and savor.

Whether it’s the vast open spaces of Detroit Zoo, the intricate landscape of John Ball Zoo or the natural beauty of Binder Park Zoo, every destination we’ve listed guarantees a bright day of joy to our fur babies.

So leash up, and get ready to create precious, unforgettable memories with your canine companions at these top-rated Michigan zoos.

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