Things to Do
There’s no shortage of things to see and do at the Detroit Zoo! From amazing animal habitats to engaging events, we offer plenty of ways to immerse yourself in fun and connect to the natural world.
Explore Events
Event Spotlights
Detroit Zoo Blood Drive
Select dates and times
Ignite positive change at a Detroit Zoo Blood Drive! Did you know that one in seven hospital patients needs blood? You can help meet this critical need by donating during...
Wild Lights
Nov. 21 – Jan. 3 | Gates open at 5 p.m.
Flip the switch on the holidays as the Zoo begins its transformation into a sparkling winter wonderland.
Presented by:
Polar Beers 2026
Dec. 3 | 6:30 – 10 p.m. | 6 p.m. VIP entry
Polar Beers 2026 Tickets
Presented by:
Zoo Boo
Oct. 3-4, 9-11, 16-18 & 23-25 | 3 - 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy a “merry-not-scary” Halloween haunt perfect for little ghouls and goblins.
Featured Private Experiences
HABITATS
Room to roam
Explore our naturalistic habitats that give the animals who call the Zoo home space to thrive.
African Forest
Throughout the northwest side of the Zoo, you can meet several animals who are native to Africa, such as elands, flamingos and spoonbills.
Animals:
Schmidt's Monkey, White Stork, Ostrich, Eland, Greater Flamingo, Greater Rhea, Chilean Flamingo, African Spoonbill and more...
African Grasslands
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.
American Grassland
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.
Animals:
Wolverine, Giant Anteater OLD, Sloth Bear, Sandhill Crane, Pig, Miniature Donkey OLD, Grizzly Bear, Bald Eagle, Beaver, Bison, Cinereous Vulture and more...
Arctic Ring of Life
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.
Polk Penguin Conservation Center
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.
Animals:
Gentoo Penguin, King Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Rockhopper Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin and more...
Cotton Family Wolf Wilderness
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.
Animals:
Gray WolfAttractions & More
Take a Ride on the Wild Side
Take your Zoo visit to the next level with one of our add-on rides, attractions and more. Whether you are riding on the train or carousel, catching a show in the 4D Theater or taking a break at the PlayVenture, there’s plenty of fun to be had at the Zoo!
Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails
Private Events
Make your next event something special
Make the Zoo your destination for your next private meeting, picnic, birthday party, wedding, family reunion, corporate outing or other special event.
Plan Your Event