Touch the stingrays in the lagoon, stop by the Pelican Pier to see duck breeds from around the world, and visit the penguins in the aquarium at John Ball Zoo. The zoo showcases animals representing Africa, Asia, South America, Australia, and the United States like gorillas, tigers, lions, and emus. You'll discover a designated, interactive children's zoo that features camel rides, a ropes course, and a zipline for kids. Adults can try the Sky Trail--another ropes course. Board the funicular tram to the top of the zoo on your way in or out. Parking is free; check the website for seasonal closures before you visit. Add John Ball Zoo and other attractions to your Grand Rapids trip itinerary using our Grand Rapids online sightseeing planner.
Create a full itinerary - for free!
John Ball Zoo reviews
-
We visited the zoo during their annual night time Illumi-zoo Halloween events....incredible lights, and displays, as well as treat stands! Grandparents, parents, and toddler were all very impressed.... more
We visited the zoo during their annual night time Illumi-zoo Halloween events....incredible lights, and displays, as well as treat stands! Grandparents, parents, and toddler were all very impressed.... more »
-
We went for the afternoon during Spring Break. It wasn’t very warm so there so it wasn’t very busy. There is a lot of space to walk around. The map was a little confusing and we ended up...
We went for the afternoon during Spring Break. It wasn’t very warm so there so it wasn’t very busy. There is a lot of space to walk around. The map was a little confusing and we ended up... more »
-
Awesome trip, spent about 5 hours walking around and was able to see most all exhibits. Staff was very friendly and polite. I thought the food prices were slightly pricey, but nothing crazy. I got the free refill cup which was well worth it. Overall great experience, will definitely come back.
-
Great day to go to the zoo! We had fun, a little pricey for the food, but delicious. The camel rides were cool too but again, pricey for the pictures. The zoo should consider a platform to view for people not paying to ride. Overall great time!
Plan your trip to Grand Rapids
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.Know more
Popular things to do in Grand Rapids
Hidden gems in Grand Rapids
Side trips from Grand Rapids
Nearby attractions in Grand Rapids
Parks in Grand Rapids
Breweries & Distilleries in Grand Rapids
Trips in John Ball Zoo by other users
4 days in Grand Rapids
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Room Escape Games
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
John Ball Zoo
32 days in Michigan
BY A USER FROM JORDAN
Munising
Mackinaw City
Mackinac Island
13 days in United States
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Mattoon
Grand Rapids
Mackinaw City
21 days in Grand Rapids
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Leonardo da Vinci's Horse
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Grand Rapids Public Museum
35 days in Michigan
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Saint Joseph
Grand Rapids
Traverse City
8 days in Grand Rapids & South Bend
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Grand Rapids
South Bend