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 2024 season runs March 22-November 24. Summer season hours are 9am-6pm. Off-season hours vary, please check the website.

Summer season pricing during the week (Monday-Thursday): $20 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.

Summer season pricing during the weekend (Friday-Sunday): $22 for adults (13-61) and $17 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: $17 for adults (13-61) and $13 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.

The Zoo participates in the nationally recognized Museums for All program and provides reduced-price admission. Present your Michigan EBT Bridge Card or out-of-state SNAP-EBT card (along with a valid form of photo ID) for $2 admission per person, for up to four people in your household. Note that the discount is not available on certain special event dates. 

Visit the John Ball Zoo and other local attractions for one low price when you purchase Culture Pass GR, a digital three-day savings pass delivered to your smartphone. 

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, the main eatery located in the heart of the zoo, offers lunch and snack items. Depot Snacks is located near the front entrance, making it the perfect first and last stop of the day. Tiger Paws Pizza, Central Plaza Dippin Dots, Whistle Stop, Monkey Bar, Bird's Nest and Lion's Den are also open daily and located around the zoo. 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.