Guest Services and Accessibility Programs
Safety Shelters
In the event of a need for shelter, several areas of the Zoo are storm-ready certified. Shelters include all restrooms, lower level of the Ford Education Center, and the lower level of the Ron Kagan Wildlife Interpretive Gallery. When directed to the shelter, please remain inside until staff gives the “all clear” signal.
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First Aid
If you need first aid, please notify a staff member for assistance. Adhesive bandages and sting relief are available at the Security Office behind Buddy’s Pizza and at the Customer Care Office next to the Main Admission Gates. Pain relievers, antacids, etc., are available in vending machines in some restrooms.
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Lost and Found
If you have lost an item at the Detroit Zoo, please submit a lost and found form. 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.
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Lost Children
If you lose a child at the Zoo, please notify a staff member immediately. We advise using name tags for small children to facilitate their return to parents or guardians. Please have a designated spot in the Zoo to meet if you and your group are separated. Lost children are taken to the Security Office behind Buddy’s Pizza.
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Picnic Areas
You are welcome to bring food and beverages into the Zoo and enjoy them at one of our picnic areas. Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Personal grills, alcoholic drinks and open fires are not allowed at the Zoo. Please leave drinking straws and Styrofoam products at home.
Lost and Found Form
Food & Refreshments
There are several convenient food and beverage locations throughout the Zoo. From burgers and fries to coffee and sweets to all-vegan fare, you are sure to find the right options for you.
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Convenience Rentals
Single and double strollers, wagons, wheelchairs and Electronic Convenience Vehicles (ECV) are available for rent at the Main Train Station (near the front of the park) and seasonally at the Africa Train Station (in the far corner of the Zoo). Rented items cannot be taken on the Tauber Family Railroad.
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Water Stations
As part of our commitment to sustainability, the Detroit Zoo does not sell bottled water. You can bring your own bottles or buy reusable ones at concessions, all of which are refillable for free at filtered-water stations throughout the Zoo.
Locate on a MapGeneral Zoo Rules
- No feeding the animals
- No smoking or vaping
- No grilling on Zoo grounds
- No biking or skateboarding
- No balls, baseball bats, frisbees, or balloons
- No roller skates, electric or kick scooters, in-line skates, Heelies or Rollies
- No Hoverboards, Segways or similar upright mobility devices
- No pets on Zoo grounds or in vehicles
- No distribution of printed literature of any kind
- No radios, TVs or drones
- Do not throw things into animal habitats
- Do not climb or cross barriers
- No solicitation of Zoo guests, employees or volunteers
Zoo Policies
No-Feeding Policy
Visitors are strictly prohibited from feeding any animal at the Detroit Zoo. Animals have specialized and nutritionally balanced diets, and throwing food and other objects into habitats may risk their health and safety. Guests who violate this rule will be escorted from the Zoo.
No Admittance to Restricted Areas Policy
For your own safety and that of those around you, never enter an animal habitat or restricted area. Do not climb over, lean on or lift children onto or over fences. Please keep a safe distance from service areas.
Service Animal Policy
The Detroit Zoo is a place for individuals of all abilities, and we welcome qualifying service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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Know before you go
Explore everything you need to know before your next Zoo adventure.
