The Detroit Zoo is at a distance of approximately 2 miles north of the Detroit city in Michigan. This zoo is an ideal place for visitors and families alike to spend some quality time exploring the animal kingdom. It is known to be home to over 270 species of animals.
The Detroit Zoological Society has undertaken the operation and management of the Detroit zoo as well as the Belle Isle Zoo.
Getting There
You will find the Detroit Zoo at the northwest corner on the crossway of 10 Mile Road (I-696) and Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak. The Detroit Zoo Water Tower is the nearest landmark.
The Detroit Zoo can be reached via I-696 and Exit 16, from the east or west.
For those traveling from I-75 north or south, you are recommended to take Exit 61 to I-696 west.
More information along with a complete Detroit Zoo map is available on the official website.
Detroit Zoo History
The year of 1883 had laid the foundation of the beginning of the Detroit Zoo Michigan. An unsuccessful circus may have bid adieu to the Trumbull Avenues in Michigan, but the animals of the circus were fated to remain back. The Detroit Zoological Garden was established that very year by Luther Beecher, a renowned capitalist and citizen of Detroit, who had bought those circus animals along with a building for their display. This zoo shutdown after a year, but that could not stop the establishment of the Detroit Zoological Society in 1911. Thus the zoo officially reopened on August 1, 1928.
Ever since then the Detroit Zoo has come a long way to become one of the most popular zoos in Michigan. Today the zoo is home to over 270 species of animals and reptiles. The Detroit Zoo is always been famous for its cage less exhibits. It boasts of being the first American zoo to display such exhibits.
Detroit Zoo Events
The Detroit Zoo hosts an array of fun filled events to suit every member of your family.
These events are specially meant for kids but parents can also participate to share the merriment. The fun filled games and activities have been designed keeping in mind the safety of children.
- Bunnyville
- Wild Summer Nights Concert Series
- Fall Festival
- Zoo Boo
The following events cater to adults looking forward to have an enjoyable time.
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- Sunset at the zoo
- Visitors can look forward to an event filled with dance, laughter, music and a perfect dinner. This event also features the megahit exhibit Dinosauria. Make the most out of this thrilling after hours bash that simply rocks!
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- Summer Zoomance
- This after –hours adults only event is reminiscent of childhood Detroit Zoo memories close to the hearts of people. Summer Zoomance is held from 6pm to 9 pm irrespective of rain or shine. Several nostalgic dishes and adult beverages are available at this one of a kind event.
- Run wild at the Detroit Zoo
- This event is a call to the family’s athlete to participate in a fun filled race across the streets that surround the Detroit zoo. Participants will enjoy the scenic 5K or 10K course through Huntington Woods.
- Meet your Best Friend
- The Detroit Zoo in association with the Michigan Humane Society and other animal welfare organizations proudly present the nation’s biggest animal adoption program. Meet your best friend is scheduled to be held as the 19the Annual Spring on May 14 and 15, from 10am to 5pm.
- Please log onto the official website for complete information on the dates and timings of these events for this year.
Rides and Attractions
The Detroit Zoo offers a number of rides and attractions that are suitable for children of all ages. Let your kid indulge in an experience he/she would cherish for a long time. The fun filled and exciting activities are bound to make your family come back for more!
Dinosauria 2011
The biggest exhibit of the country is back with a bang! This outdoor exhibit features animated motorized dinosaurs that roar and rumble providing you a life-like encounter.
Hurry up and grab the tickets to this super hit exhibit which features from May25- September 5, 2011.
Wild Adventure Ride
The Wild Adventure Ride calls in for a one of a kind experience! This virtual reality excursion is one of the first of its kind in the entire country.
Giraffe Encounter
The Giraffe Encounter brings you the chance to experience an up close contact with the tall giraffes of the Detroit Zoo. The high platforms are designed to enable visitors to overlook the animal habitat and to feed these tall, innocent creatures.
Rackham Memorial Fountain
This famous historic attraction dates back to the year 1939. You will find the Rackham Memorial Fountain situated right at the centre of the Detroit Zoo. It was built in honor of the first President of the Zoological Commission.
Tauber Family Railroad
The Tauber Family Railroad is loved by all families ever since 1931. This joy ride is frequented by almost half a million passengers annually.
Detroit Zoo Admission Prices
The Detroit Zoo ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults (15-61 years old): $12
- Children (2-14years old): $ 8
- Senior Citizen (62 years old and above): $10
- Active Military with ID: $10
- Kids under 2 years of age: Free
- Members: Free
Parking prices are as follows:
Cars/ Vans: $5 each
Buses: $8
Please note that parking is free for members. Parking fees are usually paid at the time of admission only.
Detroit Zoo Hours of Operation
The Detroit Zoo operational hours are as follows:
April 1st- Labor day the zoo will open from:
9.00 am – 5.00pm
Please note that on Wednesdays of the months of July and August the zoo will open from:
9.00am – 8.00pm
Day after Labor Day – October 31st the zoo will be open from:
10.00am – 5.00pm
November 1st – March 31st the zoo will open from:
10.00am – 4.00pm
The zoo is open throughout the year except on Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
The Detroit Zoo is one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Michigan. This zoo is frequented by thousands of families and visitors from every corner of the world.
Contact Details
Detroit Zoological Society,
8450 W. 10 Mile Rd,
Royal Oak,
MI 48067,
Telephone: 248-541-5717
