Things to Do

Throughout the northwest side of the Zoo, you can meet several animals who are native to Africa, such as elands, flamingos and spoonbills.

Explore the animals who call the African Savannah home. Located in the Zoo’s northwest corner, the African Grasslands is home to animals such as zebras, warthogs, rhinos and more.

Running along the south border of the Zoo, the American Grasslands are home to animals native to North and South America, including grizzly bears, wolverines, bald eagles, bison and more.

One of North America’s largest polar bear habitats, the Arctic Ring of Life features 4 acres of outdoor and indoor spaces, including a 70-foot-long glass tunnel, exploration station and ice cave. Polar bears, as well as rescued sea otters, call this habitat home.

One of the world’s largest penguin facilities, the 2-acre Polk Penguin Conservation Center features a 326,000-gallon pool and 25-foot-deep aquatic area. Five species of penguin call this habitat home.

The Cotton Family Wolf Wilderness is located in the southwest corner of the Detroit Zoo. This 2-acre habitat features grassy hills and meadows, native Michigan trees, a flowing stream and pond, dens and elevated rock outcroppings where the wolves can survey their surroundings.