Membership FAQs

 Q: How long is my membership active?

A: One year from the date of purchase.  However, if you renew before your membership expires, your new year of membership begins on your original anniversary date, not the date you renew.

Q: Who can I contact with questions about my membership?
A: Call Detroit Zoological Society Membership Services at (248) 541-5717 and press 3 or contact us by email at webmembership@dzs.org.

Q: How long after I purchase a Detroit Zoological Society membership will it take before I receive my membership card?
A: The card will take two-to-three weeks to arrive. If you purchase your membership onsite at the Detroit Zoo you will receive your card upon completion of the transaction.

Q: If I join online, can I use my benefits when I visit the Zoo today?
A: Yes, attached to your confirmation email is an “E-Card” that can be used as a temporary card until you receive your new card in the mail.

Q: If I visit the Zoo and join on site, will I get reimbursed for parking?
A: If you are charged (on the same day) parking prior to entering the Zoo or purchasing your membership, save your receipt and before the end of the day turn it in for reimbursement towards a membership.

Q: Is my membership tax deductible?
A: Yes, memberships are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Consult your tax adviser for details.

Q: Do Members of the Detroit Zoological Society receive free or discounted admission to other zoos and aquariums in the U.S.?
A: Yes, only guests listed under a Detroit Zoological Society membership can receive 50% off admission at zoos listed on our reciprocal list. Please see the Reciprocal List of Zoos.  This does not include special events.

Under AZA guidelines, participating institutions located in close proximity are not required to offer free or discounted admission to each other’s members. In accordance with this, the Detroit Zoo does not offer a reciprocal benefit to Toledo Zoo members.

Q: I have a membership to another zoo or aquarium in the U.S. Do I receive free or discounted admission to the Detroit Zoological Society?
A: Yes, if your membership is with a zoo or aquarium on our reciprocal list you will receive 50% off admission to the Detroit Zoo. Parking is $8 per vehicle.

Q: Can I purchase a membership online?
A: Yes, click here to join or renew.

  • Reminders:
    • Memberships ordered online become effective immediately and the “E-Card” attached to your confirmation email serves as your temporary card granting you free admission and parking to the Zoo. Please print your “E-Card” from your email confirmation before coming to the Zoo.
    • If you renew your membership before the expiration date, your new year of membership begins on the original anniversary date, not the date you renew.

Q: How do I update/change my membership information?
A: Call Membership Services at (248) 541-5717 and press 3 or email webmembership@dzs.org

Q: I have misplaced my membership card. How do I get a new one?
A: You can request a new card via email at webmembership@dzs.org, stop in Membership Services before your next visit to the Detroit Zoo, or by simply calling the Membership Services office at (248) 541-5717 and press 3 and we will mail a new card to you. You will need your membership card and photo ID for entry each time you visit.

Q: Can someone else use my membership card?
A: Memberships are non-transferable and identification is required at the gate.

Q: I have not received my membership materials in the mail yet; can I still visit the Zoo?
A: Yes, please stop by the Membership Services office or Membership Sales Booth with a photo ID and we will issue a temporary day pass.

Q: Can members exit through the main admission gate?
A: Everyone exiting at the front of the Zoo must exit through the exit gate. The Rackham Fountain Entrance – located at the end of the 10 Mile Road parking lot – is another option for Members to enter or exit.

Q: Do members have designated parking?
A: No, but Members receive free daytime parking during public hours and Wild Summer Nights concerts. Event parking is additional.

Q: Do members get discounts on concessions?
A: No, but Members do get a discount at Zoofari Market, Arctic Outpost and the Drake Passage Gift Shop.

Q: Can my nanny come with me and my children?
A: The Nanny/Caregiver add-on is to be used in the absence of the primary adult Members to accompany children.  In the case of a Member with disabilities, the caregiver will be allowed to accompany the primary adult Member(s) if needed for care of the individual with disabilities.  Up to three Nanny/Caregivers may be listed.  This add-on cannot be purchased online.  It must be purchased on-site at the Detroit Zoo.  Please go to the Membership office, Membership Sales Booth or Rackham Fountain Entrance.

Q: What type of membership can I purchase to cover a group home?
A: All Members’ names must be listed on a membership; therefore, it is rare that a group home fits within our membership categories. We can offer reduced admission rate through group reservations. Call (248) 541-5717 ext. 3300.

Q:  I am having difficulty purchasing a membership on your website, can you help me?
A:  The most common mistake is not filling in all the boxes on the online form.  In particular, the children’s birth years must be filled in.  Begin by checking to see that all of the boxes are complete.  If you are still having trouble please call Membership Services at 248-541-5717 and Press 3.

Q: I was unable to find the answer(s) I needed. Where can I find further information?
A: You can visit our website at detroitzoo.org, call Membership Services at (248) 541-5717 and press 3 or stop by the Membership Services office during your next visit to the Detroit Zoo.