FAQ About John Ball Zoo

See over 2,000 animals representing 200+ species in specially designed habitats and engage in a variety of fun experiences, from a zipline adventure to a funicular ride. 

It’s amazing for kids – a place to see and learn about animals up close and personal and get inspired to help conserve wildlife and the natural environment.

The 2023 season runs March 24-November 19. Summer season hours are 9am-6pm. Off-season hours vary, please check the website.

Summer season pricing: $19 for adults (13-61) and $15 for seniors (62+), youth (3-12), college students with ID, and active and veteran U.S. Military personnel and their spouses with ID. Children 2 and under enter free.

Off-season pricing: $14 for adults (13-61) and $11 for seniors (62+), youth (3-12), college students with ID, and active and veteran U.S. Military personnel and their spouses with ID. Children 2 and under enter free. Prices are subject to change, please confirm with the attraction.

John Ball Zoo’s JUMP program offers free admission for qualified individuals across the state of Michigan. Individuals that currently qualify for the programs covered by a Michigan Bridge (EBT) card or a WIC card can present their card to get free admission for up to two adults and up to five dependent children or grandchildren who currently reside in the same household as the cardholder.

John Ball Zoo encourages visitors to purchase tickets online in advance. You can purchase tickets here. You may also purchase them on site at the ticket window.

The John Ball Zoo strives to be accessible for all visitors. Sensory kits are available for those with special needs. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rental. A universally designed playground on the Zoo grounds is accessible to all guests and includes sensory features for the visually impaired. See more Accessibility Info.

Just five minutes from downtown GR via Fulton St., which is lined with restaurants – perfect for getting a to-go food order and enjoying at a picnic table in the spacious park fronting the zoo. The Zoo is across the street from an entrance to Kent Trails, a 15-mile paved trail that winds through Millennium Park.

Abundant on-site parking is available.

Yes. The Monkey Island Café and Depot Snacks, both open daily, offers a large menu of lunch and snack items. Tiger Paws Pizza and Central Plaza Dippin Dots are open seasonally. Please do not bring food into the John Ball Zoo.

Yes, the John Ball Zoo gift shop is bursting with toys and stuffed animals, t-shirts and apparel, eco-friendly and fair trade items, gift bags and more.