Transformational Erb Family Foundation Grant Brings Detroit Zoo’s Discovery Trails Closer to Reality

ROYAL OAK, Mich. (Oct. 8, 2025) – The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) today announced a landmark $6 million gift to create the Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails, an immersive new guest experience scheduled to open in summer 2026 at the Detroit Zoo.

The grant from the Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation represents one of the most substantial contributions in the Zoo’s history and builds on a longstanding partnership between the Erb family and the DZS.

“We are deeply grateful to the Erb Family Foundation for this extraordinary contribution and for the decades of unwavering support of the Detroit Zoo,” said Dr. Hayley Murphy, executive director and CEO of the DZS. “Nearly 20 years ago, Fred and Barbara’s names were etched into the Polar Passage in our Arctic Ring of Life habitat — and now, it is especially meaningful that those same names will greet guests at a new experience that is every bit as bold and inspiring.”

Spanning 7 acres, Erb Discovery Trails will immerse guests in interactive adventures and deeper connections with animals and nature. Highlights include: • Canopy Trail and Treetop Crossing – Aerial adventures where children and adults alike can climb, play and explore. • Senses Trail – A playful, multi-sensory path designed for families to experience nature in new ways. • Brand-new animal encounters and gathering spaces – Brush goats and feed chickens in the barnyard or enjoy hands-on experiences with stingrays and bamboo sharks. Recharge in shady resting areas and view beautiful artwork made from custom ceramic tiles.

“The Erb family’s history in Royal Oak stretches back to its earliest days – from our great grandfather who was the postmaster and general store proprietor to our father who opened his first Erb Lumber Store just down the road from the Detroit Zoo,” said Leslie Erb Liedtke, Erb Family Foundation trustee and daughter of Fred and Barbara Erb. “Continuing our parents’ support for the Detroit Zoo is a meaningful way to carry forward that legacy, and we are excited for the Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails to open next year.”

This gift brings the vision for Discovery Trails closer than ever, but the journey isn’t complete. The DZS invites the community to help make this project a reality — and every contribution helps bring Erb Discovery Trails to life as a place for all to explore, connect and be inspired in 2026. To support Erb Discovery Trails, visit here.

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About the Detroit Zoological Society: The Detroit Zoological Society – a renowned leader in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, environmental sustainability and humane education – operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. One of Michigan’s largest paid family attractions, the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak hosts more than 1.3 million visitors annually. Its 125 acres of award-winning naturalistic habitats are home to more than 2,000 animals representing more than 200 species. The Belle Isle Nature Center sits on a 5-acre site on Belle Isle State Park in Detroit. For hours, prices, directions and other information, call (248) 541-5717 or visit detroitzoo.org.