Will I be able to see all the animals?

No. The back of the Zoo will close early in the evening, and not all animals will be on view after 8 p.m. We recommend visiting habitats first when you arrive and working your way toward the music as the night goes on. Slow and steady wins the race.

Do I need to be 21 if I am buying a Designated Driver ticket?

Yes, all guests must be 21 years of age or older, and an ID is required to enter Zoo Brew.

Can I purchase additional drink tickets at Zoo Brew?

Guests are limited to the number of tastings included in their ticket. Full pours of wine and beer products are available for purchase at Table 28 and Woodward Slice.

Can I access Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails during Zoo Brew?

No, Erb Discovery Trails opens to the public Memorial Day weekend. Mark your calendars to join us then or purchase the 4-Pack to explore during Summer Sips, Spooky Spirits and Polar Beers!

How much is Zoo Brew?

Zoo Brew general admission is $55 ($49.50 for members) and VIP—which includes more tastings, a VIP lounge and commemorative gift—is $95 ($85.50 for members). Designated driver tickets are $20 less for both general admission and VIP. Groups of 10 or more get a discounted rate of $45 per general admission ticket.

What do I get with the 4-pack?

Our 2026 After Hours 4-Pack locks in general admission to Zoo Brew, Summer Sips, Spooky Spirits and Polar Beers at a discounted rate. 4-Pack pricing is only available through May 15, so get it while you can!

Zoo Brew 2026 | Things to Do in Detroit

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May 15, 2026 | 6:30-10 p.m.

Sip slow and go wild at this exclusive 21+ experience offering after-hours access to the Detroit Zoo.

$35.00 - $95.00

Tickets available now

Get Tickets

Presented By

Zoo Brew 2026: Shell Yeah

At Zoo Brew, presented by KeyBank, you’ll wander through 125 acres of naturalistic habitats, sip on 100+ beverage selections, enjoy live music from local artists and shell-ebrate a one-of-a-kind night out in Royal Oak. This year, we’re coming out of our shells for turtle conservation.

VIP ticket holders get to enjoy Zoo Brew 30 minutes early (6 p.m.). The ticket features 14 tastings, a commemorative gift and VIP Lounge access (food included).

Shell We?

What to Expect

A premium selection of 100+ beverages including craft beer, cocktails, seltzers and non-alcoholic options
10-14 3oz. tastings depending on ticket type
A complimentary welcome drink courtesy of Griffin Claw Brewing Co.
Complimentary carousel rides until 9:30 p.m.
Exclusive after-hours access to the Zoo
Interactive Connection Station about turtle conservation, sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Live music from local artists Cosmic Groove and DJ Big Ben
Optional VIP upgrade starting 30 minutes before general admission
Oversized lawn games
Themed photo ops
Zookeeper Chats
Food available for purchase

What’s New

This year, Zoo Brew is raising a glass to the turtle! One of nature’s most resilient reptiles, you’ll get the chance to explore how the Zoo works to protect turtle species and their habitats through conservation research and education.

General admission now starts at 6:30 p.m., giving guests an extra half hour to explore, sip and soak in the Zoo after hours.

Zoo Brew 2026 Tickets

General Admission

Standard admission to Zoo Brew.

$55 | Member $49.50

Admission to the Zoo at 6:30 p.m.
Ten (10) 3 oz. tastings
Food available for purchase

Purchase Tickets

VIP

All the benefits of general admission plus so much more!

$95 | Member $85.50

Early admission to the Zoo at 6 p.m.
Fourteen (14) 3 oz. tastings
Access to the VIP Lounge and included buffet
A commemorative coaster made from repurposed wood

Purchase Tickets

Designated Driver (DD)

All the fun of Zoo Brew without the alcohol.

$35 | Member $31.50

Admission to the Zoo
Unlimited soft drinks
Unlimited access to non-alcoholic tasting selections

Purchase Tickets

Designated Driver VIP

All the benefits of designated driver plus so much more!

$75 | Member $67.50

All the same features as the DD ticket
Access to the VIP Lounge and included food options
A commemorative coaster made from repurposed wood

Purchase Tickets

DD ticket holders are not permitted to consume alcohol at the event.
Must be 21+ to attend. Photo ID is required. Parking is $8 per vehicle (free for members).

Four Nights. One Pack. Zero FOMO.

Want more after-hours experiences at the Detroit Zoo? Lock in four unforgettable nights with the limited-time 2026 After Hours 4-Pack, which includes general admission to Zoo Brew, Summer Sips, Spooky Spirits and Polar Beers. Sip, stroll and celebrate the seasons with exclusive 21+ after-hours access, craft drinks, live entertainment and so much more.

4-Pack pricing is only available through May 15.

Get the 4-Pack

Members Get More

Members save on Zoo Brew! With a Detroit Zoo membership, you’ll enjoy great perks like unlimited daytime admission, free Zoo parking, endless education PLUS savings on select events like this.

Become a Member

Groups Get In on the Fun

Planning a night out for 10 or more? Come out of your shells together. Group rates are available for Zoo Brew and all After Hours events.

GA Group Rate: $45 | DD Group Rate: $25

Get Group Tickets

Your Admission Matters

By attending Zoo Brew, you’re helping the DZS protect turtles and the habitats they depend on. These animals face serious challenges — from habitat loss to illegal collection — but together, we can help ensure they thrive for generations to come.

Every ticket supports the Zoo’s conservation efforts and the care of the more than 2,000 animals who live here. Sip, stroll and be part of the change.