Information and Safety

• Detroit Zoo Safety Guidelines & Updates

  Our goal is to provide a great Zoo experience in an environment that is as safe as possible for all. To maintain the health and safety of our guests, staff and endangered animals, there are a few safety guidelines and updates we would like you to review before your arrival.

  Book Reservations    FAQs

  MASK POLICY

  Face masks are encouraged indoors for the well-being of each other, staff and the animals who call the Detroit Zoo home.

  YOUR MEMBERSHIP

  Detroit Zoological Society members are no longer required to book reservations to visit the Detroit Zoo during daytime hours. If you would like to purchase or renew a membership, click here.

  BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

  • All general admission guests are required to purchase their tickets in advance so that we can maintain capacity limits. Tickets can be purchased here. A limited number of general admission tickets will also be available at the gate each day with pricing of $19 per child or senior, and $23 per adult. The best way to guarantee your Detroit Zoo experience, at the best price, is to purchase your advance tickets today.
  • After purchasing your tickets, you will receive an email with your digital ticket, safety details and a digital map, as the Zoo will not be providing paper maps. Please check your spam folder if you do not receive your tickets after making a reservation.

  AS YOU ARRIVE

  • The members-only entrance at Rackham Fountain is closed for the season.
  • Parking is available in the surface lots and the parking structure.
  • Please show your ID and membership card (if applicable) before presenting your digital or printed timed ticket to the booth attendant, who will scan it.

  DURING YOUR VISIT

  • The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is free with Detroit Zoo admission; however, entry to every guest is NOT GUARANTEED. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, those planning to visit the Polk Penguin Conservation Center will join the organized queue line adjacent to the building entrance. Detroit Zoological Society memberships and advance admission tickets will not guarantee a pass to the Polk Penguin Conservation Center.
  • Explore Zoo Treks for information about the animals and the habitats.
  • 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 risks their health and safety. Guests who violate this rule will be escorted from the Zoo.
  • Please pay attention to the signs around the Zoo alerting you to any temporary closures as well as all the safety guidelines:
  • EXPERIENCE UPDATES: Most indoor areas have reopened. Current exceptions include the Wild Adventure Zone and rhinoceros building.
  • FOOD AND GIFT OPTIONS: Click here for food options. Click here for gift options. Credit or debit cards are strongly preferred as means of payment.

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  ANIMAL CARE

  Knowledge regarding potential susceptibility of animals to COVID-19 continues to emerge, and DZS protocols adapt to include new information as it is available. We are taking proactive measures to limit any potential risk to animals who live at the Detroit Zoo as we continue to properly care for them. The DZS staff is wearing personal protective equipment while caring for certain species. Guests may notice temporary barriers in areas that might present a risk of transmission of COVID-19 from a guest to an animal. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to keep the animals at the Zoo healthy.

  COVID-19 WARNING

  The safety protocols and reopening information were developed after reviewing scientific data, consulting with health experts, local officials and other zoos around the world. As a visitor, you are required to follow all of the safety guidelines established by the Detroit Zoological Society. COVID-19 is highly contagious and can cause severe illness and even death. Older adults and people who have underlying illnesses may be at greater risk for severe illness if they contract COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is still a risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 while in outdoor areas with other people, though it has been established that viruses do not, in general, survive sunlight/UV radiation for very long. When you visit the grounds of the Detroit Zoo, or any other public place, you are accepting there is a risk of exposure to COVID-19.

  To limit the spread of COVID-19, everyone must share the responsibility of following safety guidelines to help keep themselves and others safe. When you make the choice to visit the Detroit Zoo, you represent that you are not experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, have not tested positive for COVID-19 within the last two weeks and have not been in direct personal contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the last two weeks. While in the Zoo, you are expected to observe the DZS’s safety guidelines that are derived from the CDC, WHO and other experts. They are outlined above and posted throughout the Zoo and include wearing face coverings, following posted routes of circulation, physical distancing and adhering to sanitization requirements.

• Zoo Map

  

  Zoo Treks

  Navigate the Detroit Zoo from the palm of your hand!

  Explore the Detroit Zoological Society’s long history of saving animals and easily navigate the grounds of the zoo with our Zoo Trek experience.

  Presented by:
  

  General Map Trek

  Explore the Detroit Zoological Society’s long history of saving animals and easily navigate the grounds of the zoo with our Zoo Trek experience.

  Presented by:
  

  General Map Trek

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  Sustainability Trek

  The Detroit Zoological Society is a leader in environmental sustainability. We’re working to reduce our impact on the Earth and create a better future for animals, people and the planet.  Follow this trek to see some of the important initiatives we’re undertaking, and learn how you can join us on our Green Journey.

  Launch

  The Detroit Zoological Society is a leader in environmental sustainability. We’re working to reduce our impact on the Earth and create a better future for animals, people and the planet.  Follow this trek to see some of the important initiatives we’re undertaking, and learn how you can join us on our Green Journey.

  Launch

• Frequently Asked Questions

  Do I need advance tickets to visit the Detroit Zoo?

  All general admission guests (two and older) are required to have a ticket prior to their visit in order to guarantee entry. A limited number of general admission tickets will be available at the gate each day with pricing of $19 per child or senior, and $23 per adult. The best way to guarantee your Detroit Zoo experience, at the best price, is to purchase your advance tickets today.

  BUY TICKETS

   

  Do I have to wear a face mask when I visit?

  • Face masks are encouraged indoors for the well-being of each other, staff and the animals who call the Detroit Zoo home.
  • Face masks are for sale at the Detroit Zoo’s Zoofari Market.

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  Can I purchase advance tickets in person?

  If you need ticket purchase assistance, please contact us at info@dzs.org or call 248-541-5717. Please be advised we are experiencing high traffic on our reservation site and through our call center. Please try again if you have issues. Thank you for your patience as we do our best to support all of our members and guests. A limited number of general admission tickets will also be available at the gate each day with pricing of $19 per child or senior, and $23 per adult. The best way to guarantee your Detroit Zoo visit is to book your visit in advance online.

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  Do I have to show up for my selected time and date slot?

  Visitors purchasing general admission tickets will be required to pay a change fee per ticket to visit the Zoo on a different date.

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  How do I cancel my tickets?

  All ticket purchases are non-refundable. Visitors purchasing general admission tickets will be required to pay a change fee per ticket to visit the Zoo on a different date.

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  Can I enter through the member-only entrance?

  The members-only entrance at Rackham Fountain is closed for the season.

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  What are the dining and gift options available?

  Click here for dining options. Click here for gift options. Credit or debit cards are strongly preferred as means of payment to reduce transmission risk of handling cash.

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  Is the Giraffe Encounter open?

  For the safety of our animals, the Giraffe Encounter is temporarily unavailable.

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  Will convenience rentals be available?

  Yes, convenience rentals are available. View our current list here.

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  Where can I find your full list of safety guidelines?

  You can read the current safety guidelines at detroitzoo.org/health. We are updating the page often.

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  Can I find out which habitats are open prior to my visit?

  Yes, check out Zoo Treks to find out which habitats and indoor areas are currently open.

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  Why aren’t visitors allowed to feed the animals?

  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 risks their health and safety. Guests who violate this rule will be escorted from the Zoo.

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  Is the Polk Penguin Conservation Center open?

  Yes! The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is currently open. For more information click here.

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  Can I bring my own food/picnic?

  Yes, you can bring in your own food, non-alcoholic beverages and cooler. Grilling on Zoo grounds is prohibited. We have a large number of picnic tables throughout the Zoo for guest use, some of which are under tents. Feel free to sit at any that are not reserved.

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  Can I bring my dog/pet?

  For the safety of your pet and our animals, pets are not allowed on Zoo grounds (including all parking lots).

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  Are you open during certain holidays or in the winter?

  The Detroit Zoo is open 362 days a year; we are only closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Starting in October we switch to our winter hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

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  I would like to have an event at the Zoo. How do I get information?

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

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  Can I rent an animal? Can I touch an animal?

  Zoo animals are cared for by specially trained keepers who, in most cases, do not come in direct contact with them. So while it isn’t possible for anyone to pet a Zoo animal or volunteer to work with them, we do have a couple of suggestions. Also, our WildLife Preserver’s “Adopt-an-Animal” program allows you to make a donation in someone’s name. It is a symbolic adoption – the donation will be used for the care of the animals – and he or she will receive a certificate and information about the animal they love.

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  How long does it take to walk around the Zoo? How far is it?

  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 Information

  Coupons

  We do not accept coupons from outside organizations, including Groupon.

  Animal Feedings/Habitat Chats

  Habitat chats are hosted daily at various animal habitats, giving guests the opportunity to interact with animal care staff while learning about the individuals living at the Zoo and observing them receiving treats. You can view the weekly schedule on Today at the Zoo. Additionally, food and other items are regularly hidden throughout the animals’ habitats to stimulate natural behaviors such as foraging or stalking, as part of our comprehensive program of ensuring environments for animals that are ever changing and appropriately complex. We host several events throughout the year that coincide with a season or holiday, allowing for visitors to view this practice on a schedule, e.g., Smashing Pumpkins, Green Day and Heart Fest.

  Animal Viewing

  The Detroit Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals of 240 species and has 125 acres of expansive, naturalistic habitats designed to meet the animals’ needs. Whether or not animals are active during a specific time depends on many factors, including the species, the individual animal, and oftentimes, the temperature. We work to create habitats with complex environments that stimulate species-specific behaviors. The animals have many choices for how they spend their time – there are opportunities to patrol their habitats, wallow in the mud, climb a tree, swim in a pool, or nap in the shade. If you do not immediately see an animal, we encourage you to spend a few minutes looking around and talking to the docents who can point out the animals if they are resting somewhere.

  Giraffe Encounter – Back in action soon

  Opportunities are available for guests to feed the giraffes from an elevated viewing platform that overlooks the habitat and brings guests to eye level with the Zoo’s tallest creatures. From late spring through early fall, 50 patrons per feeding are able to purchase a ticket for $5 from the Ambassador Booth at the main entrance of the Zoo, redeemable for a supervised opportunity to feed the giraffes. Feeding opportunities are available subject to the giraffes’ appetites, the weather and special events. Feeding times may vary. There are also private dining experiences with the giraffes that guests can register for at least two weeks in advance.

  Tauber Family Railroad 

  The Tauber Family Railroad is operational May through September and on weekends in October. Tickets may be purchased for a one-way ride only. (Riders must disembark at the opposite train station and wait in line if they wish to reboard for a round-trip ride.) Stations are located at the front of the Zoo near the Main Entrance and in the far northwest corner of the Zoo (Africa), past the rhino habitat. Folding wheelchairs, wagons, and folding strollers can be accommodated. Rented Zoo strollers and wagons cannot be taken on the train.

  Facility Availability

  Occasionally, a building or facility may be closed to the public for part or all of a day due to animal health needs, maintenance repairs or special events. Refunds and rain checks are not available. Schedule subject to change without notice.

• Safety and Enjoyment

  We want your visit to be pleasant and safe, so we ask that you observe the following rules:

  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
  For your own safety and the safety of your children, NEVER get close to the animals. Do not climb over, lean on or lift children onto or over fences. Please stay out of service areas.

  Security Services
  Guests are required to abide by all posted rules and regulations and to follow the direction of Security Officers.

  • Smoking and vaping are restricted to one designated area (see map).
  • Shoes and shirts are required.
  • No obscene or indecent clothing.
  • No bicycle riding, ball or frisbee playing, skateboarding, roller or in-line skating, shoes with built-in skates, tricycles and scooters.
  • No running or jogging.
  • Segways and other similar upright assisted mobility devices are not permitted on Zoo grounds.
  • Absolutely no pets on Zoo grounds or in parking lots.
  • No grills or alcohol.
  • No distribution of merchandise or printed literature of any kind in the Zoo.
  • No collection of signatures. No solicitation.
  • No radios or televisions.
  • No balloons (they are dangerous to animals).

   

  Drone Policy
  The use or deployment of unmanned, remote-controlled, autonomous, or semi-autonomous aircraft (including drones, model aircraft, rockets, and similar aerial devices) on or over the Detroit Zoo can pose a serious and direct threat to the safety and welfare of Detroit Zoo animals, patrons, and staff. Animals may be startled or panicked by such devices, and these devices pose an immediate physical threat due to propulsion systems and/or uncontrolled flight.

  Except as specifically authorized under Federal Aviation Administration, and with the permission of the DZS Chief Life Sciences Officer and Chief Operating Officer, operation or launch of such a device from the Detroit Zoo property is prohibited. While the DZS cannot control the conduct of individuals located off Detroit Zoo property, the DZS further prohibits overflight of the Detroit Zoo by such a device, except as specifically authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration. In the event that such a device lands on Detroit Zoo property, the device will be confiscated.

• Service Animal Admittance Policy

  Domestic animals present risk of disease transmission to other animals and may cause stress to resident animals, and therefore are not allowed in the Detroit Zoo or the Belle Isle Nature Center unless providing assistance as a service animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  Service Animals

  The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) strives to provide a welcoming environment for a diverse audience on both campuses. When a guest arrives with a service animal at the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center, a member of the Security team will welcome the guest and ensure that their service animal is qualified under the current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. The guest will be issued a bandana to indicate that their service animal has been approved and is allowed on grounds. The bandana will be collected upon the guest’s departure. Each guest with a service animal will also be given a small collapsible water bowl for the animal’s comfort and a pet waste collection bag for convenience. DZS staff members at each entrance will also advise the guest of the areas service animals are not permitted and inform them how to reach staff if any assistance is needed.

  Applicable service animals are limited to dogs and, in some cases, miniature horses. Bona fide service animals are allowed to enter the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center to provide assistance to guests in accordance with applicable federal, state and local regulations. Service animals must meet the following conditions:

  • Service animals must be at least 12 months of age as specified by Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) 750.502c. Animals under 12 months of age are more likely to carry parasites or other pathogens that pose a direct threat to Zoo and Nature Center guests and animal residents.
  • Service animals must be under the “effective control” of the individual with the disability, in accordance with ADA. “Effective control” means “the service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while in public places unless these devices interfere with the service animal’s work or the person’s disability prevents use of these devices. In that case, the individual must use voice, signal or other effective means to maintain control of the animal.”
  • Service animals must be “on duty” and accompany a person who is in need of the animal’s assistance.
  • Service animals must not threaten the health or safety of guests or animals, or disrupt the operation of the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center.

  Service animals in training are allowed at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center subject to the following conditions:

  • Service animals in training must be at least 12 months of age.
  • Service animals in training must be under the effective control of a certified trainer or guide who possesses photo identification stating that he or she is a trainer, or an employee of a training organization, included on the Michigan Department of Labor’s list of recognized trainers.

  Service animals, and service animals in training, are not allowed in the following areas of the Detroit Zoo as their presence may threaten the health or safety of guests and/or animals or disrupt the operation of the Detroit Zoo:

  • Australian Outback Adventure immersive walkway (exterior viewing is available)
  • Free-Flight Aviary
  • Simulator Ride (non-motion rides are available upon request)
  • Red Panda Forest Canopy Walkway

  Service animals, and service animals in training, that do not meet the above criteria, or otherwise threaten the health or safety of Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center guests and animals, will be denied access to, or removed from, the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center. The guardians or owners of service animals who are denied access or removed from the premises may still enter the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center without the service animal. The DZS cannot allow animals of any kind to be left unaccompanied in an automobile in a Zoo or Nature Center parking area.

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  Tags: emotional-support animals, therapy dogs, support animals, emotional support animals, therapy animals

• Special Needs

  Autism and Other Special Needs

  

  The Detroit Zoological Society is committed to accommodating individuals with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities, including autism. Our staff has participated in the Michigan Autism Safety Training (MAST) provided by the Autism Alliance of Michigan and KultureCity’s certification process. These resources have prepared staff and volunteers at both DZS facilities on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory-overload situation. Sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads are available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Guests can check out the bags at Customer Care and the Park Safety Office. A dedicated sensory room is also available for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.

  The Detroit Zoological Society is committed to accommodating individuals with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities, including autism. Our staff has participated in the Michigan Autism Safety Training (MAST) provided by the Autism Alliance of Michigan and KultureCity’s certification process. These resources have prepared staff and volunteers at both DZS facilities on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory-overload situation. Sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads are available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Guests can check out the bags at Customer Care and the Park Safety Office. A dedicated sensory room is also available for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.

  

  Additionally, social narratives about the Detroit Zoo have been developed for guests with special needs to use prior to visiting. This tool provides colorful pictures, easy-to-understand terms and a visual to reference in preparation for a visit. It also provides insight for families as to what might be too sensory-stimulating for some individuals, or how to better prepare the guest for what they might experience.

  Additionally, social narratives about the Detroit Zoo have been developed for guests with special needs to use prior to visiting. This tool provides colorful pictures, easy-to-understand terms and a visual to reference in preparation for a visit. It also provides insight for families as to what might be too sensory-stimulating for some individuals, or how to better prepare the guest for what they might experience.

  

  Download the KultureCity App for iOS or Android devices for resources before and during your visit. We have a strong desire to be autism- and special needs-friendly, and hope all families have an enjoyable experience the Zoo!

  Download the KultureCity App for iOS or Android devices for resources before and during your visit. We have a strong desire to be autism- and special needs-friendly, and hope all families have an enjoyable experience the Zoo!

  Detroit Zoo and Autism Narrative (PDF)

   

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  	Mobility	Hearing	Accessibility
  Guest Amenities Available for Rent or Deposit	Wheechairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (EVC)s are available on a first-come, first-served basis.	Assistive Listening Devices are available in the Ford Education Center Theater for our guests with mild to moderate hearing loss.	Electronic-assist doors are located in the Ford Education Center and Arctic Café.
  Rental Locations	The Chrysler Main Train Station and Africa Train Station are open for rentals April through October. The Guest Relations Office has rentals available during the winter months.		All restrooms are equipped with an accessible stall.
  Other Rental Information	Must be 18 years of age or older to rent ECVs. No reservations accepted. Available on a same-day basis and may only be used inside the Zoo.
  Other Rental Information	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 the use of an ECV or wheelchair free of charge.	If you would like to have a sign language, oral or cued speech interpreter, please call 248-541-5717 x3750 at least 2 weeks in advance of your tour, education program, etc. Please be specfic about the type of interpreter, e.g., ASL or signed English.
  Safety in the Zoo	Mobility scooters/EVCs: Please keep your speed to the walking speed of those around you.
  Safety in the Zoo	Adjust and lower speed while maneuvering through enclosed spaces such as restrooms, merchandise and food and beverage locations.
  Safety in the Zoo	Park your device in safe locations clear from walkways and stairs.
  Safety in the Zoo	In the event of an evacuation, guests may be required to walk certain distances and navigate stairs or narrow walkways. In this case, please have a member of your party assist you or wait in a vehicle for assistance.
  Safety in the Zoo	Some attractions require guests to transfer from their wheelchairs or ECVs to the attraction. Zoo staff are not permitted to physically assist guests in the transfer.

   

  Mobility

  • Wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (EVC)s are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The Chrysler Main Train Station and Africa Train Station are open for rentals April through October. The Guest Relations Office has rentals available during the winter months.Must be 18 years of age or older to rent ECVs. No reservations accepted. Available on a same-day basis and may only be used inside the Zoo.
  • 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 the use of an ECV or wheelchair free of charge.
  • Mobility scooters/EVCs: Please keep your speed to the walking speed of those around you.
  • Adjust and lower speed while maneuvering through enclosed spaces such as restrooms, merchandise and food and beverage locations.

  Hearing

  • Assistive Listening Devices are available in the Ford Education Center Theater for our guests with mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • If you would like to have a sign language, oral or cued speech interpreter, please call 248-541-5717 x3750 at least 2 weeks in advance of your tour, education program, etc. Please be specific about the type of interpreter, e.g., ASL or signed English.

  Accessibility

  • Electronic-assist doors are located in the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, Ford Education Center and Arctic Café.
  • All restrooms are equipped with an accessible stall.