Contact Us

Got a question?

Please see the FAQs below.

If you don’t find the answer, kindly fill in the Question, Suggestion or Comment form and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

We appreciate any and all questions, suggestions and comments … positive or negative.  Thank you!

  • Frequently Asked Questions
    Is the Polk Penguin Conservation Center temporarily closing for repairs?

    Yes, from September 8, 2019, to June 2020. View our press release for more information.

    I received a phone call from a number claiming to be the “Detroit Zoo” alerting me to an issue with my computer. Is this a scam?

    This is indeed a scam. We advise individuals to not provide any personal information to anyone purporting to be calling from the Detroit Zoo to report an issue with your computer.

    Can I bring my own food/picnic?

    Yes, you can bring in your own food, non-alcoholic beverages and cooler. Grilling on Zoo grounds is prohibited. We have a large number of picnic tables throughout the Zoo for guest use, some of which are under tents. Feel free to sit at any that are not reserved. You are free to leave your supplies at the table. Another option is to rent a wagon. That way, you’ll have your snacks with you whenever you get hungry or thirsty. Wagons are available at the Chrysler train station at the front of the Zoo during the summer months.

    Can I rent wagons/strollers? How much are they?

    Yes! Please refer to our prices page for current rental information.

    Can I rent electronic convenience vehicles/wheelchairs? How much are they?

    Yes! Please refer to our prices page for current rental information.

    Can I bring my dog/pet?

    For the safety of your pet and our animals, pets are not allowed on Zoo grounds.

    Are you open during certain holidays or in the winter?

    The Detroit Zoo is open 362 days a year; we are only closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Starting in October we switch to our winter hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and the Tauber Family Railroad operates weekends only (on November 1, it shuts down for the season).

    Do you have any discount tickets?

    Each year we honor special groups by granting free admission on certain days. For instance, on Senior Day (three times a year) we offer free admission to tri-county (Macomb, Oakland and Wayne) senior guests and one adult guest. We offer $3 off admission to active military with ID. On Veteran’s Day, we offer free admission to active and retired U.S. military personnel. And of course, our Members enjoy free admission every day.

    The best way to find out about special rates and programming is by checking our website. You’ll get the most up-to-date information to help you plan your next visit.

    I am having an event. Can I get a donation?

    The Detroit Zoological Society does donate to a number of charitable organizations. In order to determine eligibility, all donation requests must be received in writing by mail or fax on organization letterhead with a return address and including your organization’s 501(c)(3) non-profit tax ID number. Schools are not eligible for donations due to the significant discounts offered on gate admissions to school groups. Parent Teacher Organizations and Associations are eligible if they meet the qualifications above. The standard donation is a family four-pack of tickets (two adults and two children). All requests are reviewed every two weeks for eligibility, and written responses are mailed whether your request is approved or denied. Please send all requests to:

    Alexis H. Means
    Guest Relations Director
    Detroit Zoological Society
    8450 W. 10 Mile Road
    Royal Oak, MI 48067
    Fax: (248) 398-0504

    I would like to have an event at the Zoo. How do I get information?

    We offer a large variety of unique opportunities for private events. Please visit here for more information.

    Can I rent an animal? Can I touch an animal?

    Zoo animals are cared for by specially trained keepers who, in most cases, do not come in direct contact with them. So while it isn’t possible for anyone to pet a Zoo animal or volunteer to work with them, we do have a couple of suggestions. Also, our WildLife Preserver’s “Adopt-an-Animal” program allows you to make a donation in someone’s name. It is a symbolic adoption – the donation will be used for the care of that animal – and he or she will receive a certificate and information about the animal they love.

    How long does it take to walk around the Zoo? How far is it?

    The Zoo is 125 acres. If you walk all the primary pathways on the main route, it is a 1.7-mile trip. Adding in smaller paths increases your distance.

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