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John Ball Zoo
About John Ball Zoo
Are you excited for that WILD day out in Grand Rapids, kids? You just have to head to John Ball Zoo to spend the day exploring your wild side, and enjoy amazing animal encounters with creatures from all over the world!
Have you ever come face to face with those feline predators - the tiger? Perhaps you want to immerse yourself in the world of aquatic animals, as you explore the coast of Pategonia, or even as local as the Michigan stream?
Kids can watch those cheeky penguins play, come face to face with eels, or admire the tropical fish all in a 40,000 gallon Kelp Forest tank and tide pool.
Those grand and iconic bald eagles call John Ball Zoo home, or you can see what wonders the tropics hold with their vast diversity of reptiles and amphibians. Don't miss those beautiful mammals too, including the sloth!
It wouldn't be a zoo without a trip into the Savannahs of Africa, where you can picture yourself on the plans of Mokomboso Valley with baboons, monkeys, chimps - all in one of the largest exhibits in the nation!
Kids can also enjoy a camel ride too - pretty cool! The fun doesn't stop either at John Ball Zoo for kids with Red's Hobby Farm, where kids can pretend to be sailing with the pirates, or trying to spot the ring tailed lemurs.
From mountain lions, to grizzly bears, to the smallest frogs, John Ball Zoo is a great way for kids to learn all about the creatures of the world - and you don't even need to leave Michigan!
Let's get WILD!
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Suggest editHow much does it cost?
Suggest editAdults $14-$19
Children ages 3-12 $12-$15
Free Under 3 years
Last Update 2023
Discount Seniors $12-$15
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John Ball Zoo FAQ’s
Doing our bit
They have a wildlife conservation fund, as well as collaborate with other AZA zoos to conserve our endangered species
Do they have baby facilities?
Strollers are available to rent
I’m Hungry! Can I get food at John Ball Zoo?
It's not just the animals that need to eat! There are a number of concession stands throughout the zoo, as well as other cafes with a larger menu, including burgers, chicken wraps, pizza and hot dogs! And yes - they have Dippin Dots!
Any top tips when visiting?
There are additional experiences you can enjoy for an extra costs, from camel rides, to the funicular, zip lines, ropes course, and more! The petting corral is included in admission
Does John Ball Zoo have a gift shop?
The gift shop is where gifts of the wild await, with authentic African items, Indian apparel, or even paper made from elephant poo! The wonderful awaits in their eco-friendly and fair trade supported gift shop
Teachers corner
They offer discounted admission, close up animal encounters, explorer tours, twilight tours, and even overnight adventures!
Do they have baby facilities?
Strollers are available to rent
Does John Ball Zoo have healthy eating or Vegan options?
The cafe offers salads! You can also bring food into the zoo, but grills aren't allowed.
Is John Ball Zoo fully accessible?
Wheelchairs are available free of charge, and the zoo is accessible!
Any additonal information?
The gate stops admitting visitors 30 minutes before the closing time
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