





Zoos
John Ball Zoo
📍 1300 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504🕐 Hours
| Monday | 9 AM–5 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–5 PM |
About John Ball Zoo
Seasonal zoo with an aquarium. Home to 2,000+ animals, this seasonal park boasts a funicular ride, plus penguin & parakeet feeding. Home to 2,000+ animals with an integrated aquarium facility, making it a comprehensive zoological and aquatic attraction. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,152 visitors.
💡 Did You Know?
- Home to 2,000+ animals with an integrated aquarium facility, making it a comprehensive zoological and aquatic attraction
- Features a funicular ride as part of the zoo experience, providing unique transportation and elevated viewing perspectives
- Offers interactive animal feeding experiences including penguin and parakeet feeding opportunities for visitors
- Operates as a seasonal zoo with continuous expansion and improvement of exhibits over the past 12+ years, including new enclosures and modern facilities
- Recently welcomed notable baby animals including Hugo (pygmy hippo) and Juniper (baby snow leopard), indicating active breeding and conservation programs
💬 What Visitors Say
- Plan multiple visits throughout the year - the zoo continuously adds new exhibits and seasonal events like the Lantern Festival. Annual memberships offer excellent value given the constant improvements and year-round attractions.
- Visit during autumn or early winter for beautiful seasonal scenery and active animals. Reviews note animals are more likely to be out and engaged during pleasant weather days, making for better viewing experiences.
- Don't miss the recently renovated animal enclosures and baby animals like Hugo the pygmy hippo and Juniper the snow leopard. Check the zoo's website before your visit to learn about current featured animals and new exhibits.
- Take advantage of the staff's passion for education - they actively share knowledge about animals and are accommodating with questions. This interactive approach enhances the educational value beyond just observing the animals.
- The zoo offers diverse attractions beyond traditional animal viewing, including the zip line, ropes course, camel rides, and rotating exhibits like the LEGO exhibit and Lantern Festival. Plan at least a full day to experience multiple attractions.
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