Zoo Accessibility
The Detroit Zoo is committed to ensuring our campus, buildings and programs are accessible and welcoming to all.
Take the Virtual TourAccessibility Guidelines for Visitors
Wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs)
Wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs)Wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rentals are available from April to October at Chrysler Main Train Station and Africa Train Station for $30 per ECV per day. The Guest Relations Office has rentals available during the winter months. Guests must be 18 years of age or older to rent ECVs. No reservations are accepted. Rentals are available on a same-day basis and may only be used inside the Zoo.
Segways Prohibited
Segways are prohibited at the Detroit Zoo. However, if you have a personal Segway and a physician’s note indicating that the Segway is a prescribed mobility device, you will be offered an ECV or wheelchair to use free of charge.
Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) Speed Regulation
Guests using mobility scooters/ECVs, please keep your speed to the walking speed of those around you. Adjust and lower your speed while maneuvering through enclosed spaces such as restrooms, merchandise and food and beverage locations.
Limited Assistance
Some attractions require guests to transfer from their wheelchairs or ECVs to the attraction. Zoo staff are not permitted to assist guests physically in the transfer.
Upcoming Events
Accessibility & Inclusion Events
Experience the Zoo in a way that’s welcoming to all! From sensory-friendly hours to special evenings for families with unique needs, these events are designed to provide an inclusive and comfortable visit for everyone.
Sensory-Friendly Mornings
Our annual celebration of environmental action in southeast Michigan
Accessibility & Support Services
Hearing
- Assistive Listening Devices are available in the Ford Education Center Theater for guests with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Accessibility
- Electronic-assist doors are located in the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, Ford Education Center and Table 28.
- All restrooms are equipped with an accessible stall.
- Adult changing tables are available at the Picnic Grove family restrooms, Coney Corner family restroom and the Mitten Market family restrooms.
Guests with Sensory Needs
We strive to support individuals with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities, including autism. Our staff is trained through the Michigan Autism Safety Training by the Autism Alliance of Michigan and KultureCity’s certification program. These initiatives ensure our team can recognize guests with sensory needs and effectively manage sensory-overload situations.
We provide sensory bags containing noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual cue card and a VIP lanyard to guests who may feel overwhelmed. A weighted lap pad and strobe glasses are also available upon request. These resources are available for checkout at Customer Care and the Park Safety Office.
Visual Support
All guests receive free access to ReBokeh, an assistive tech app designed for low-vision users. It enhances live cellphone camera feeds with customizable filters to adjust contrast, color, zoom and lighting. The app also features AI-powered image descriptions, providing real-time text analysis of guests’ view of animals, habitats and special exhibits at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. Learn more and download ReBokeh on the Apple App Store.
Mobility Support
We’re committed to creating inclusive and accessible experiences for everyone. While our special attractions trail may not be fully accessible to all wheelchairs, we’re happy to offer a complimentary trail chair for guests who need additional mobility support. The trail chair is available on a first come, first served basis. To check it out, speak with a staff member near the trail and complete a quick waiver. Please note that trail chairs must be checked out by an adult (18 or older) and returned before leaving the trail area.
Guest Services and Accessibility Programs
Service Animal Policy
The Detroit Zoological Society welcomes guests with ADA-compliant service animals, who will receive a bandana, water bowl, and waste bag upon entry. For the safety of all guests and animals, service animals must remain under control and are restricted from certain immersive habitats.
Kulture City App
Download the KultureCity App for iOS or Android devices for resources before and during your visit. It will help you have a great time at the Zoo!
Sunflower Program
Have a hidden disability? Discreetly indicate you need support or assistance during your Zoo visit by wearing official Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Program products available upon request. Visit the Guest Relations office at the front of the Zoo for more information.
Social Narrative
Explore what a day at the Zoo can look like with our social narrative. This sensory-friendly slideshow will give you all the information you need for a successful Zoo visit.
View the Narrative
Explore The Detroit Zoo Virtually
To enhance accessibility, we provide a detailed virtual tour, allowing you to experience the Zoo’s highlights online at your convenience.
Help us help you
We are always looking to improve and better support our diverse community. Let us know how we can make your Zoo visit more inclusive.
Contact Us