Ask the Zoo

Our weeklong camps are the same program that runs each week throughout the summer, so we have new groups of campers each week. Some camps run more limited weeks in the summer (ex: Grades 9-10: Animal Health only runs the week of July 15). If you sign up your child for multiple weeks, they will do the same activities, zoo hikes, and art projects.
Two-day camps are different programs than weeklong camps.

For children entering grades K-6, we suggest selecting a weeklong camp and a two-day camp to provide them with different program options during the summer.

There is an opportunity to order extra shirts and camp packs during online registration. If you have already registered for Safari Camp and would like to purchase either of these items, you may do so at any time online. Please bring the receipt to your child’s instructor, Camp Supervisor or Director during check-in or check-out. Your child will receive the item at the end of the day.

Please email [email protected] or call (248) 541-5717 ext. 3800 to change your extended care schedule.

Anyone picking up your child from camp must be listed as an Authorized Pickup and show a photo ID at check-out. There are two ways to change the list of individuals allowed to pick up your child from Safari Camp:

Tell your child’s instructor at check-in.
Email [email protected]

Please email [email protected] to notify us the week of their registered camp. Upon your arrival, check in with Zoo staff at the member entrance booth and wait for your child to be brought out to sign out. Please have a photo ID ready to present to camp supervisors.

No. We do not control the contents of other campers’ lunches or food brought into the Zoo by other guests. We do have a designated peanut-free table at lunch sites; please advise camp instructors if you would prefer your child to eat at this table.

Please print and complete a Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan form and if your child has medication, an Authorization for Dispensing Medication form. Bring forms, along with any epinephrine or antihistamines that may be needed by your child on the first day of camp to discuss the plan with your child’s instructor and Camp Supervisor(s) or Director.  All medication must be prescribed by a licensed physician, be in the original container and labeled with the child’s full name. Please email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

Yes! We strive to be an inclusive camp that serves all campers. Please contact our camp directors at [email protected] to discuss accommodation details and share how we can best support your child while at camp. We can provide a wheelchair for long Zoo hikes if necessary.

Please print and fill out an Authorization for Dispensing Medication form. Bring this form, along with the noted medication for your child on the first day of camp to discuss the plan with your child’s instructor and Camp Supervisor(s) or Director. Unless designated to be kept on/with the child, medication will be kept in a climate-controlled office and dispensed by a Camp Director and Supervisor. All medication must be prescribed by a licensed physician, be in the original container and labeled with the child’s full name. We do not accept expired medications. Please email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

Day camps are by grade level your child will enter in fall 2024, and programs repeat from week to week. Weeklong camp programs differ from the two-day camp programs.

Day Camps 2024

Evening Camps 2024

There are many ways to show your support! Please check here to learn about options such as donation, sponsorship and volunteering opportunities.

For stock transfer instructions, please ask your representative to contact Kayne Karnbach ([email protected] / 248-336-5754) or Andrea Richards ([email protected] / 248-336-5729).

An example of this could include language similar to the following: “I give to the Detroit Zoological Society _____ [written amount of percentage of the estate or description of property] for its unrestricted charitable use and purpose.”

Please make checks payable to “Detroit Zoological Society” and mail to:

Attn: Development Office
8450 W. 10 Mile Road
Royal Oak, Mi 48067

Yes! For a list of conveniences that are available for rent, please check here.

No. The Tauber Family Railroad route runs along the southern perimeter of the Zoo.

The train operates on a seasonal basis throughout the year. Tickets cost $3 per rider for a one-way ride.

Cash is accepted, but credit or debit cards are preferred.

Before visiting, please check the Plan Ahead section on our website to view an updated schedule of any potential closures happening at the Zoo.

Each film is a condensed version of the original picture and usually lasts anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes.

Please visit Rides and Attractions and Experiences for the latest schedule of attractions and animal experiences that are open at the Zoo. Attractions and experiences are available to guests on a seasonal basis.

The 4D Theater includes effects such as lights, bubbles, snow, scents, wind and potential chair vibrations, along with tickles on the back of your feet and pokes in the back.

Please check here to view the gift shops and stands that are located at the Zoo.

Please check here for dining options.

For the safety of your pet and the animals at the Zoo, pets are not allowed on Zoo grounds. Domestic animals could potentially present the risk of disease transmission to other animals and may cause stress to the animals who call the Zoo home.

Service animals are allowed on Zoo grounds, as long as the animal is in adherence with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please check here for our service animal policy.

Yes, guests may bring in their own food, non-alcoholic beverages and cooler. Grilling on Zoo grounds is prohibited. A number of picnic tables are available for use throughout the Zoo, some of which are under tents. Feel free to use any of the tables that are not currently reserved.

The Zoo does not sell or rent animals or animal artifacts, such as deceased butterflies, animal hides, feathers, shed antlers, etc.

While guests are not permitted to physically rent or adopt any of the animals who call the Zoo home, they are encouraged to participate in the Zoo’s A.D.O.P.T.S. program, which allows guests to make a symbolic animal adoption in someone’s name to support the conservation of animals at the Zoo as well as endangered species around the world.

Guests are strictly prohibited from feeding any animal who calls the Zoo home. Animals have specialized and nutritionally balanced diets, and throwing food and other objects into habitats risks their health and safety. Guests who violate this rule will be escorted from the Zoo.

Zoo animals are cared for by specially trained animal care staff who, in most cases, do not come in direct contact with the animals who call the Zoo home. Guests are not allowed to touch any of the animals.

The Zoo does not take in any injured or baby native Michigan wildlife. If you do come across any injured or seemingly orphaned baby wildlife, please contact your local animal control or the Michigan DNR for directions on how best to proceed. Please check here for a list of licensed wildlife rescues and rehabilitators.

We offer a variety of unique opportunities for private events. Please check here for more information.

Gift cards are available for purchase at the membership sales booth and customer care office. Guests may also purchase Zoo gift cards through third party affiliates Kroger and giftcardmall.com.

Please submit this form if you lost something at the Zoo. You will receive an email confirmation that your submission has been received. Once we receive your form, we will do our best to help you locate your lost item and return it to you.

Yes! Hours vary depending on the season, and the Zoo is open daily with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Please check here to view current hours.

We take the safety of our guests, employees and the animals who call the Zoo home very seriously. Please check here for a list of the Zoo’s current safety guidelines.

Gift cards may be used to purchase Zoo tickets or memberships at the main gate, as well as items at our concession stands, gift shops and attractions.

If you would like to purchase general admission tickets at the advanced discounted rate or other ticketed events with a gift card, please call the Zoo first at (248) 541-5717.

The Zoo does not condone the purchase of exotic animals for the pet trade. We will not accept any donations of pets such as exotic reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish or mammals who can no longer be cared for. Please contact the breeder or institution from where you acquired the animal to see how best to proceed if you are no longer able to care for the animal.

We are happy to answer your questions! Please call (248) 541-5717 or email [email protected] and we will work to provide you the information you need.

Yes! Please check here to join the Zoo as a new member or to renew your membership.

The Nanny/Caregiver add-on membership option is to be used in the absence of the primary adult members to accompany children or to enter the Zoo with the adults to assist with children or any member with different abilities.

Only primary members can use their membership card to access to all of their Zoo member benefits. Memberships cannot be transferred, and identification is required at the gate.

No, but members can take advantage of discounts at our Zoofari Market.

No, but members receive free daytime parking during public hours and during after-hours events at the Zoo.

Yes! Members can receive 50 percent off admission at zoos and aquariums on this AZA reciprocal member list. Discounted admission does not include special events.

If you need to make any changes to your membership, please call (248) 541-5717 or email [email protected].

Memberships are active one year from the date of purchase.

If you renew your membership it expires, your new year of membership begins on your original anniversary date, not the date you renew.

Yes! If you are a member with a zoo or aquarium on our reciprocal list, you will receive 50 percent off general admission to the Zoo. Parking is $8 per vehicle.

The most common oversight when making a purchase online is not filling in all the boxes on the indicated form. Please begin by double checking to see that all the boxes are complete, and if you are still having trouble, please call (248) 541-5717 for more information.

As of March 1, 2021, all new and renewing members now receive a digital membership card sent via email. While we will no longer mail out physical membership cards — if that is your preference, you may request one to be printed here at the Zoo on your next visit at the Membership Sales Booth or at our Customer Care office at admission gate 1. Please contact [email protected] or call (248) 541-5717 for more information.

Yes! When you purchase or renew your membership online, you will receive a confirmation email from the Detroit Zoological Society with an attached “E-Card” that may be used as a temporary card until you receive your new digital card. A new, permanent digital card will be sent to you via email within 24 hours or purchase.

Yes, memberships are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Consult your tax adviser for details.

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 a reduced admission rate through group reservations. Please call (248) 541-5717 for more information.

Parking is included with the membership benefit. If you purchase parking in advance through the website or here on grounds the day you visit and decide to purchase a membership, we will deduct the cost of the parking payment from the total cost of your membership. Please make sure to keep your online receipt or paper receipt for proof of purchase.

If you are not a member of the Detroit Zoo, parking costs $8 per vehicle. Members receive free daytime parking during public hours and during after-hours events. Please click here if you are interested in becoming a member.

You may access Zoo grounds by entering through Gate 0 (located off Woodward Avenue) or Gate 1 (located off W. 10 Mile Road).

The Zoo is 125 acres. If you walk all the primary pathways on the main route, it is a 1.7-mile trip. Adding in smaller paths increases your distance

You may enter the Zoo through the main admission gates located closest to Woodward Avenue.

Please note that the Rackham Fountain members-only entrance, located in the 10 Mile Road parking lot, is closed for the 2024 season.

Guests may park in the lot located just northeast of the main entrance, adjacent to Woodward Avenue, the lot that runs parallel to W. 10 Mile Road or inside the Zoo’s parking garage.

Off-site parking is available on days when the Zoo is experiencing a high-level of vehicle traffic. Shuttle services will be provided for guests who use off-site parking locations. These locations will be listed on our website only on the days they are available.

Due to the proximity of animal habitats near the finish line, we ask that spectators do not bring in any noise makers (e.g., cow bells, whistles, air horns, etc.). Thank you in advance for your cooperation. 

All participants, including Fun Walkers, will receive a finisher medal upon completion of their race. This unique collectible medal highlights a different animal each year! 

Additional age group medals are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each category for the 5K (age categories are: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+). In addition, plaques will be given to the overall top male and female finishers and top overall masters male and female (age 40+) for the 5K. 

Winners must pick up their awards by 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event during the Post Race Party. Awards will be located inside the medals tent, near Rackham Fountain. Medals will not be mailed. 

The Post Race Awards Ceremony will take place immediately following the conclusion of the Run/Walk. The celebration, sponsored by Kroger, will include entertainment, food, beverages, children’s activities and access to the Zoo’s 125 acres. 

Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo has been recognized by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness as a quality physical activity event that significantly contributes to the health and well-being of Michigan residents. For more information about the Governor’s Council’s endorsement program, please visit the Michigan Fitness Website. 

Newton Timing will be the official timers of Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo using the ChronoTrack Timing System. 5K participants will have electronic timing tags attached to their race bib. To receive an accurate time, please confirm your bib is clearly visible on the front of the torso, unaltered and unmodified (do not fold or wrinkle), pinned in all four corners and not covered by jackets, runner belts, water bottles, etc.

5K results will be available at the finish line and Post Race Party shortly after the event. Same-day results will also be available online. 

5K runners start at the Zoo’s 10 Mile Road entrance, wind through the scenic streets of Huntington Woods and cross the finish line INSIDE the Zoo! Walkers follow a course past award-winning animal habitats as they stroll through Zoo grounds. 

Join the race to victory with Jagger the sloth bear! Did you know sloth bears can run up to 20 miles per hour in the wild? That makes Jagger the ultimate Run Wild mascot! Complete the race to earn your exclusive Jagger-themed medal, then swing by her habitat in the Zoo to meet her in person and discover why she's the perfect racing buddy.

All general admission guests (ages 2 and older) are encouraged to have a ticket prior to their visit in order to guarantee entry. Walk-up general admission tickets are available at the gate each day with pricing of $24 per child or senior, and $27 per adult.

If you are a member of another AZA-accredited institution (reciprocal member), your Zoo entry tickets must be purchased onsite by showing your active membership card to the institution you belong to. Check here for the current list of zoos we reciprocate with.

As appreciation for active duty military members and veterans, we offer discounted admission. This discount is only available onsite by showing your military/veteran ID at the gates. With the discount, admission will be $22.

All Zoo ticket purchases are non-refundable. If you wish to visit the Zoo on a different date, guests are subject to pay a change fee for each ticket purchased.

General admission tickets purchased online in advance for general admission guests (ages 13-64), youth guests (ages 2-12) and seniors (ages 65 and older) vary depending on the date and time of your visit. General admission tickets for children and seniors cost $12 - $21, and adult tickets cost $14 - $24. Guests under the age of 2 are free.

Guests who do not attend the Zoo are subject to pay a change fee, per ticket, to visit the Zoo on a different date. All Zoo ticket purchases are non-refundable.

We accept all major credit and debit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, Amex. We also accept cash payments.

We accept checks for membership purchase ONLY.

• Drop-off and Pick-up:
  If a member of your party has mobility limitations, there is a drop-off and pick-up area in front of the main admission gates. Please follow the signs.
• Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECV’s):
  We recommend that guests bring their own wheelchairs and electric scooters. A limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent at the Chrysler Main Train Station while quantities last. Wheelchairs are $10 and ECV’s are $28.
• Sensory Needs:
  The Detroit Zoological Society is committed to accommodating individuals with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities. We have a strong desire to be autism and special needs-friendly, and we hope all families have an enjoyable experience!
• Sensory Support:
  Fall Fest events contain interaction with sound and live entertainment. You may want to consider bringing these items to support a sensory-friendly experience:
  • Noise-reducing headphones or ear plugs
  • Fidget tools
  • Weighted lap pad

• Drop-off and Pick-up:
  If a member of your party has mobility limitations, there is a drop-off and pick-up area in front of the main admission gates. Please follow the signs.
• Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs):
  We recommend that guests bring their own wheelchairs and electric scooters. A limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for rent at the Chrysler Main Train Station while quantities last. Wheelchairs are $10 and ECV’s are $28.
• Sensory Needs:
  The Detroit Zoological Society is committed to accommodating individuals with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities. We have a strong desire to be autism and special needs-friendly, and we hope all families have an enjoyable experience!
• Sensory Support:
  Zoo Boo events contain interaction with sound and live entertainment. You may want to consider bringing these items to support a sensory-friendly experience:
  • Noise-reducing headphones or ear plugs
  • Fidget tools

Zoo Boo guest can enjoy several treat stations. While we do not include candy with peanuts and tree nuts along the trail, some items may be made in a facility that processes these products. 

While Zoo Boo does not distribute treats that contain nuts, we cannot guarantee that all treats are allergen-free. Some items may have been produced in facilities that also process nuts or other common allergens.

• All 125 acres of the Detroit Zoo will be open for Zoo Boo, Smashing Pumpkins and the character meet-and-greets.
• All indoor areas will be open for Zoo Boo, Smashing Pumpkins and the character meet-and-greets.

Memberships are non-refundable. Once purchased, they cannot be returned or refunded. Please make sure to review all membership details before completing your purchase. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us for clarification.

Mingle with the Macaronis is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with and hand-feed the penguins.  This experience is in extremely high demand and no discounts are currently available.

Join us on our Green Journey by bringing a reusable trick-or-treating bag. The Zoo will not provide bags to Zoo Boo guests. A limited number of reusable bags are for sale at Zoofari Market.  

Please bring a reusable bag for trick-or-treating. The Zoo will not provide bags. A limited number of reusable bags will be available for purchase at the Detroit Zoo Shop.

Yes! Reach out to education [email protected] to request a school match and receive annual updates.

No, this is a 21+ event. All guests must present a valid photo ID at entry.

Yes! Ask your holi-date to be yours forever, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the season. Fill out the form to schedule a marriage proposal at Wild Lights.

Note: You must submit your proposal at least a week in advance of your chosen date for scheduling purposes. Bookings are not guaranteed until you confirm you’d like to move ahead after your initial submission. Dates and timeslots available on a first come first serve basis.

Yes!  Mingle with the Macaronis gift certificates can be purchased, subject to availability.   Submit requests for information by email to [email protected] for more information.

Absolutely. Monthly gifts provide steady support and are easy to manage.

Members receive a 10% discount and free parking, but Polar Beers requires a separate ticket purchase.

No. All observations that are made within the boundary of the project between April 25 – April 28 will automatically get pulled into the project – you do not need to add your observations to the project. You’re welcome to join the project though — that way you’ll get notifications about News posts that are made, and the project will be listed on your observations that get aggregated into it.

While we encourage you to have fun with your costumes during Fall Fest events at the Detroit Zoo, we are devoted to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, staff and animals. The Detroit Zoo prohibits the following:

• Sharp or pointed objects/materials that may accidentally harm another Guest
• Toy weapons including, but not limited to, guns, swords and knives
• Animal costumes with full face masks
• Balloons, frisbees, sports balls, bouncy balls or other similar types of balls.

Guests with costumes containing any of the criteria listed above will be required to leave items in the car or alter their costume to adhere to the safety guidelines.

Costumes are welcome — and encouraged — but for everyone’s safety, please note:

• No full-face animal masks
• No sharp objects or costume weapons
• No balloons, balls or props that could pose a risk
• No costumes depicting hate, violence or political messaging

Guests may be asked to modify or remove unsafe items. Thank you for keeping Zoo Boo fun and safe for all!

No. Mingles can be scheduled for one to six participants.  The cost is still $1,000.

No, a Detroit Zoo staff member will greet your group on the bus when you arrive and will bring everyone into the Zoo. Please wait to unload the bus until a staff member has instructed your group to do so.  

• Chaperones driving separately must enter the Zoo with their group. Late arrivals will be directed to the Main Entrance at the front of the Zoo, where they will have to pay/use their membership.
• We recommend that chaperones driving separately follow the bus so everyone arrives in the same place at the same time.

The Detroit Zoo does not currently offer a standard discount for teachers or educators. However, we do offer a number a number of classroom resources and professional development opportunities that can help educators and their students connect to animals and nature.

No, in our journey toward lessening our environmental impact, we no longer provide printed maps. However, maps may be printed in advance or downloaded to a smartphone and are available in six different languages! To download the Detroit Zoo app, please visit: detroitzoo.org/visit/maps/  

Select food outlets will be open for food and beverage service during your Fall Fest experience. Please refer to the map for each event for an updated list of open stands and restaurants. Make sure to visit Zoofari Market and Photo Memories to purchase your favorite Detroit Zoo keepsake before you depart! Credit or debit cards are strongly preferred as means of payment. 

Select food outlets will be open for food and beverage service during your Zoo Boo experience. Please refer to the map for an updated list of open stands and restaurants. To take home a keepsake memory, visit the Detroit Zoo Shop, Photo Memories or either of the Zoo’s penny press locations. Credit or debit cards are strongly preferred as means of payment. 

No, all food and beverage must be provided through the Zoo’s culinary team.

Yes, your holiday party can be extended until 11:30 p.m. for $500/hour (arranged in advance).

Without Wild Lights, all areas outside your reserved venue are closed. With Wild Lights, guests can explore the light show before or after your celebration.

Tables, black chiavari chairs and parking. Linens are available at an additional cost.

The Detroit Zoo offers discounted tickets through partnerships with local libraries and cultural institutions. Check with your neighborhood library or a participating community organization to see if they offer Zoo ticket discounts. The Zoo currently does not offer discounted admission through EBT, WIC, SNAP or the Museums for All program.

Holiday magic should be shared. Here’s how you can help:

Toys for Tots

Bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Detroit Zoo Shop this Wild Lights season! Gifts will be distributed to children across metro Detroit.

Mittens for Detroit

Donate new mittens or gloves to support warmth for families this winter. Collection bins are near the entrance.

Holiday Lights Recycling

Drop off broken or unwanted light strands between Nov. 28 and Jan. 31. We’ll recycle them responsibly.

Your contributions make a real difference. Thank you.

1. Fill out the School Group/Field Trip Form here: School Group Form. 
2. At the bottom of the form, check the box to add a Mobile Learning Quest. 
3. When your school group order is confirmed, you’ll see a line item for the Mobile Learning Quest. 

Programs have different lengths-

• 45- 60 minutes (Pre-K through first grade) 
  • Animal Size
• 60 minutes (Kindergarten through middle school) 
  • Life Cycles 
  • Conservation Project: Penguins
  • Conservation Project: Panamanian Golden Frogs
  • Wildlife Biologist: Isle Royale
  • Wildlife Biologist: Michigan Bats
• 90 minutes (High school) 
  • Zoo Careers Animal Behavior 
  • Zoo Careers: Animal Medicine
  • Wildlife Forensics 

Chaperones are essential to a successful field trip! 

• A chaperone is defined as an adult aged 21 and older and can be a parent/guardian, school support staff, or other adult affiliated with the group of students/youth in a supervisory capacity.
• The Detroit Zoo requires a minimum of one adult for every 10 students (even for high school groups), although we highly recommend one adult for every five students. 
• Seven adults, including teachers, are included in the learning lab reservation. 
  • Students with unique educational needs are permitted an additional adult at no extra cost. Please email [email protected] to communicate this accommodation in advance.
• If you have more than seven adults, please purchase additional tickets for them in advance.

Bookings begin Nov. 1 of each year for the following year. Experiences must be scheduled at least three weeks in advance. Please note that availability often fills quickly, and most dates for the current year are typically sold out. We recommend booking early and planning ahead for the following year.

The cost for a Mingle with the Macaronis experience is $1,000 regardless of the number of participants.

A Mingle with the Macaronis experience is scheduled to last 90 minutes to two hours. If you choose to end your experience before the allotted time, the cost is still $1,000. Should a zookeeper need to end your experience early due to animal welfare concerns, a refund will not be issued.

Yes. Full payment is required to secure your date.

Yes. The Detroit Zoological Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your receipt.

The event takes place primarily outdoors along the Wild Lights trail. Dress accordingly. An exclusive indoor lounge is available for VIP ticket holders inside Table 28.

Yes. Groups of 20 or more receive exclusive pricing and planning support.

Whether you’re coordinating a school field trip, workplace party, group outing or multi-generational family visit, our team can help make it seamless.

Bus parking is available on a first-come basis. 

Contact Group Sales

You can use your Zoo admission tickets any time during Zoo hours on your selected date. Whether you are early or late, we will accommodate you so you can have a great day at the Zoo!

Parking is $8 per vehicle for all Fall Fest event attendees. Members do not pay for parking. 

Parking is $8 for non-member guests. Detroit Zoo members get free parking always!

Please see the event page for each Fall Fest event for pricing. 

Zoo Boo ticket prices may change based on time, day and demand. For the best price, be sure to buy online in advance! Members receive 10% off their Zoo Boo ticket price. Please refer to the Zoo Boo page for full pricing details.

Submit requests for information by email to [email protected].

• All Fall Fest events are rain-or-shine. No refunds will be provided. 

• Zoo Boo visitors who try to visit on a different Zoo Boo date will be required to pay a change fee per ticket. Jack O’ Lantern Journey visitors who try to visit on a different Jack O’ Lantern Journey date will also be required to pay a change fee per ticket.  

• Event tickets may not be used for general admission to the Detroit Zoo. 

Zoo Boo takes place rain or shine, and tickets are nonrefundable. If you’d like to switch your ticket to a different date, a per-ticket change fee will apply. Event tickets may not be used for general admission to the Detroit Zoo.

• All restrooms at the Detroit Zoo are equipped with an accessible stall and baby changing stations.
• Family restrooms and the Mommy & Me nursing station will be accessible for the entire event.

All restrooms at the Detroit Zoo are equipped with an accessible stall and baby changing stations. Family restrooms and our Lactation station in the Ford Education Center will be accessible for the entire event.

• The 4D Theater, Tauber Family Railroad, and the Carousel will be open for your enjoyment during Fall Fest events. Tickets for the 4D Theater are $6 per person; train tickets are $3 per person for a one-way ride; and the Carousel is $3 per rider.
• Bundle these with the Theater +2 pass and get access to a 4D Theater movie and your choice of a ride on the train or the carousel.

The 4D Theater and carousel will be open for your enjoyment during Zoo Boo. Tickets for the 4D Theater are $6 per person, and the carousel is $3 per rider. For a seamless experience, you can add attractions onto your Zoo Boo ticket purchase in advance online.

You can read the current safety guidelines at detroitzoo.org/visit/guidelines.  

You can read the current safety guidelines at detroitzoo.org/visit/guidelines.

The candy at Zoo Boo is procured from companies committed to using sustainably sourced palm oil in efforts to protect wild animals impacted by deforestation. For allergy information, please refer to the allergy information tab.

Zoo Boo is a trick-or-treating event. Stations will be located throughout the front half of the Zoo. Please reference the Zoo Boo map for locations. Treat bags will not be provided, though a limited number of reusable bags will be available for purchase inside the Detroit Zoo Shop.

Zoo Boo is a trick-or-treating event. Stations will be located throughout the Zoo. Please reference the Zoo Boo map for locations. 

Treat bags will not be provided, though a limited number of reusable bags will be available for purchase inside Zoofari Market. 

Jack O’ Lantern Journey and the character meet-and-greets will not have trick-or-treating. 

• Guests are welcome to bring their own wagons and strollers.
• Single and double strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and Electronic Convenience Vehicles are available for rent at the Main Train Station (near the front of the park) and at the Africa Train Station (in the far corner of the park when the train is operating). Rented items cannot be taken on the Tauber Family Railroad. Convenience Rental Pricing.
• Segways, bicycles, and other self-propelled vehicles are not permitted at the Detroit Zoo.

• Please come dressed for the weather. Fall Fest events are held rain or shine.
• Printed maps will not be available. Please download or view the event map.
• The Zoo is 125 acres. If you walk all the primary pathways on the main route, it is a 1.7-mile trip. Adding in smaller paths increases your distance.

Zoo Boo is hosted rain or shine, so please come dressed for the weather!

The Experience: 

• Students, chaperones and teachers will use their phones or other smart devices to download the Goosechase app and begin their digital adventure throughout Zoo grounds.  
• The app will use data, so ensure your devices have access to mobile data or a hotspot. Wi-Fi is not available throughout the Zoo, and mobile service may be unreliable in certain buildings. 
• Mobile Learning Quests are self-guided. Chaperones and students are encouraged to navigate the Zoo at their own pace. 

 One Week Before Your Visit: 

• You’ll receive a code with instructions to access your Mobile Learning Quest from [email protected]. Be sure to check your spam folder! 
• Ask your chaperones and adults (or even students) to download the Goosechase app in advance. 
• The code will allow you to create groups and explore the challenges beforehand. This way, you can plan and discuss the best strategy with your school group. 

On-Grounds Zoo Experience with Goosechase App: 

• Students, chaperones and teachers will use their own phones and smart devices to complete the Mobile Learning Quest on Zoo grounds. 
• The app will use data, so ensure your devices have access to mobile data or a hotspot. Wi-Fi is not available throughout the Zoo, and mobile service may be choppy in certain buildings. 
• Mobile Learning Quests are self-guided. Chaperones and students are encouraged to navigate the Zoo at their own pace. 

The Zoo is open all year, and each season has its advantages! Dressing appropriately for the weather will make your trip even more enjoyable.

• Matching shirts and name tags that include first names and school/organization affiliations are strongly encouraged to help identify groups at a glance. 
• We recommend dressing in layers because Michigan weather changes, sometimes without much notice.
• Wear comfortable footwear! The Zoo is 125 acres, and the right shoes can make a big difference!

• Additional adults are $9 per person and can be purchased in advance on the learning lab website provided in your confirmation email. If you cannot locate your confirmation email, please email [email protected], and support will be provided.
• Please print or be prepared to display proof of purchase digitally before entering the Zoo.
• The price includes parking for the individual.
• The ticket allows the individual’s entrance with the school group via the Rackham Fountain Membership Entrance at the time of the school group.
• Please note that during the learning lab, only seven adults (including the teacher) are permitted inside the studio classroom unless they are essential for student access. Extra guests will be asked to enjoy the Zoo until the learning lab is over.
• Tickets are required for anyone two years old and older.

Please call (248) 336-5808 or email [email protected] to cancel. To cancel without penalty, you must do so 30 days prior to your experience date. Refunds will not be provided if cancelation occurs after 30 days.

We understand that life happens and schedules change. 

If you need to reschedule your learning labs, please notify us in writing as soon as possible. Please direct all communications to [email protected] or call (248) 541-5717. Education programs are non-refundable. 

• Devices: Students and adults will need smartphones with the Goosechase app installed.
• Data: The app requires mobile data for accessing and completing challenges during a Mobile Learning Quest. Please plan accordingly for device access and data usage.

The educational program does not include lunch.

• Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunches and snacks. Wagons can be brought (or rented from the front of the Zoo) to transport lunches and coolers. School groups may stow lunches in the Ford Education Center. 
• Guests may also purchase food at onsite restaurants. Available food options can be viewed here: https://detroitzoo.org/visit/dining/

Lunch locations:

• An indoor lunch space may be reserved in advance on the learning lab website found in your confirmation email for 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 11:45 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. This reservation includes access to benches and tables for one class for 30 minutes and is located in the Ford Education Center. Restrooms and water filling stations are located nearby.
  • There is a $75 fee to reserve this space (this cost is included in funding for pre-approved Day at the Zoo recipients). 
• Outdoor spaces are available throughout the Zoo on a first-come, first-served basis. Please leave drinking straws and Styrofoam products at home.

The best way to enter the Detroit Zoo is through the Main Entrance off of 10 Mile Road or Woodward Avenue.

• Vehicles must drive down the 10 Mile parking lot to the Bus Zone near the Rackham Fountain Membership Booth. DO NOT UNLOAD AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE. Chaperones driving separately should also park near the Rackham Fountain Membership Booth. Please provide a copy of the driving directions for each vehicle attending, including the bus driver.
• All vehicles (car and bus) must display an 8.5×11 sheet of blue paper or the parking pass on the windshield to ensure parking lot staff direct vehicles to the Rackham Fountain Membership Entrance, where education staff will meet your group.
• Buses will depart from the same location unless other arrangements are made. We recommend meeting at Rackham Fountain (the bear fountain) 10–15 minutes before your departure time.

Additional directions may be found on the Zoo website.

Educational programs take place in the Ford Education Center's upstairs studios, which are centrally located near Rackham Fountain and a short walk from the Rackham Fountain Membership Entrance.

At the time of your program, please meet in the lobby of the building, and your Zoo educator will escort you to your classroom. The rest of the time is yours to explore the Zoo!

The Detroit Zoo is committed to serving all guests. If you have an accommodation request related to your visit, please contact us at [email protected] or (248) 336-5813. We look forward to supporting you.

• Social Story: View the Social Story
  
• Accessibility information: https://detroitzoo.org/visit/accessibility/
  

Some habitats will remain open (including the Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat, the Jane and Frank Warchol Beaver Habitat, the National Amphibian Conservation Center and the Holden Reptile Conservation Center), but animals may choose to be out of view. The back half of the Zoo will be closed during this event.

The Zoo Boo pathway is limited to the front half of the Zoo. Animal habitats in the back of the Zoo will not be open. The Holden Reptile Conservation Center and the National Amphibian Conservation Center will remain open.

If you redeem your tickets on a different day than the one you originally purchased them for, you will be charged a small change fee per ticket. The change fee increases the cost of your ticket to the posted gate price.