16 Exciting John Ball Zoo Animal Exhibits & Thrilling Experiences
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There are more than two dozen zoos in Michigan, but the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids in West Michigan is one of the oldest and one of the best. It’s also one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids!
When the weather finally turns warm after a long Michigan winter, no family activity combines fun, togetherness, and getting outside better than a trip to the zoo. No matter how old you are, it’s hard not to smile or enjoy yourself when you’re surrounded by so much to see and so many animals.
Sitting on 140 acres, the John Ball Zoo is the perfect spot to see tons of animals, have unforgettable hands-on experiences, and learn about wildlife and environmental conservation.
History of the John Ball Zoo
The original 40 acres of John Ball Park were donated to the city in 1884 by John Ball, a noted explorer and pioneer who assisted in the development of Grand Rapids. An additional 100 acres were eventually added, along with amenities like the zoo, ball fields, playgrounds, and more.
The “Ball 40”
Animals have been a part of the zoo for many years and the first mention of animals at the zoo was in 1891. The small menagerie of animals at its inception was affectionally known as the “Ball 40.” During the Great Depression, though, much of the zoo’s collection was given away to other zoos.
A Resurgence
The John Ball Zoo had a resurgence in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1949, Grand Rapids Mayor Katherine Whinery suggested the formation of a zoo society and the hiring of a zoo director.
Under the supervision of Zoo Director Fred Meyer, the zoo began construction of a Monkey Island Exhibit, which opened to the public in June 1950. During the next two decades, the zoo was built in the park’s hills.
County Ownership
The zoo was owned and operated by the City of Grand Rapids until it was sold to Kent County in 1989. The county continues to operate the zoo and the park today.
Further expansion of the zoo occurred in the 1990s when a bald eagle aviary, the Living Shores Aquarium, and a cafe area were among several additions made.
A New Master Plan
In 2005, a new master plan involving all 140 acres of the park was hatched to rework the whole zoo. The plan called for a system of streams — called Grand Rivers of the World — to connect the zoo to the park surrounding it.
In 2008, a new green lion exhibit was opened to the public, and in 2008, the Monkey Island Exhibit was renovated. Another addition to the zoo came in 2012 with an inclined railway and a three-car train that takes you on a four-minute ride to the upper reaches of the zoo.
Things to Do at the John Ball Zoo
So what can you do at the John Ball Zoo? The simple answer is a lot and you can start by looking at all sorts of fun, colorful, and amazing animals.
The zoo is broken up into several sections where you can see your favorite animals and creatures, most of which are born in other zoos. Very few of the animals have been taken from the wild.
Entry Valley
As you walk into the zoo, the first animals you’ll find will be at the Pygmy Hippo Pavillion. Watch this adorable pair of pygmy hippos as they swim and play in their habitat.
At the Aquarium, you’ll be transported to many places including the Northwest coast, a Michigan stream, and even the coast of Patagonia. It features penguins, eels, marine invertebrates, sharks, and exotic fish in a 40,000-gallon tank.
Wild Way Trail
Take the wooded Wild Way Trail from the wallabies to Red’s Hobby Farm. Along the way, you can see howler monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, and cockatoos. Kids will enjoy climbing on the rope play structures on the trail.
Red’s Hobby Farm
This interactive children’s zoo exhibit focuses on domestic animals found on farms. Pet the friendly goats and sheep as you chat with the friendly zoo staff.
Idema Forest Realm
This wooded nature walk can be reached on foot up a winding, accessible pathway or via the Funicular railway. It takes you to the back portion of the zoo, which features snowy owls, red pandas, and Amur tigers.
The Tree Tops Play Zone offers kids a chance to run over wooden and rope bridges and play in the kids’ clubhouse.
Tucked next to the Funicular train, the Bissell Tree House hosts special events and has an observation deck with a great view of downtown Grand Rapids.
Africa
This exhibit is full of primates, mammals, and birds — chimpanzees, lions, bongos, camels, Egyptian geese, and hornbills. Adventurous visitors can try their hand at riding a camel, or check out the Bissell’s Lions of Make Manyara exhibit.
One of the newer attractions is the Meerkat and Cape Porcupine Habitat, which has a fun child-size viewing tunnel.
The Americas
In the Americas, you’ll find a range of animals including flamingos, toucans, saki monkeys, anteaters, capybaras, and spider monkeys. In the summer, the zoo’s monarch butterflies grow and prep for their journey south.
Other animal favorites in this area include river otters, brown bears, mountain lions, snow leopards, the Canada lynx, and North American porcupines.
Within the indoor National Treasures building, you can see frogs, lizards, snakes, bees, small primates, and more.
More John Ball Zoo Experiences & Attractions
At the John Ball Zoo, you can see more than your fair share of animals. But there are also lots of experiences and adventures that can make your trip truly unforgettable.
Sky Trail Ropes Course
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take on the ropes course along the Wild Way Trail. It’s four stories tall and features two climbing levels and more than a dozen challenging obstacles.
Zip Line
Located on the Forest Realm Trail, this four-story, 600-foot zip line takes you on a ride over a waterfall to another ridge. You can purchase combo tickets for the zip line and ropes course if you hope to make the most of the hands-on experiences.
Backyard Butterflies
Walk through an enclosed habitat to see butterflies up close and personal at this attraction. Enjoy watching these beautiful creatures fluttering all around you!
Camel Rides
Located near the lower tiger habitat, the camel rides are a popular attraction. Bring home a souvenir photo to document this memorable experience.
John Ball Zoo Gem Company
You can pan for gems of your very own, or go hunting for shark teeth, arrowheads, and fossils. Choose from one of three sizes of bags, pour dirt on top of your screen, and reveal the treasures within.
Funicular
This inclined rail takes you to the top of the zoo, allowing you to explore and walk back toward the zoo entrance entirely downhill. Also, you can hop on from the Forest Realm Trail to go back to the entrance.
Special Events at the John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo offers not only animals and experiences to enjoy but also several fun events throughout the year. These events are great times of year to plan a visit to the zoo.
Dino Adventures
A new traveling exhibit on display from July – November 2024, Dino Adventures features over 20 robotic dinosaur replicas throughout the zoo.
“The Dino Adventures exhibit at John Ball Zoo was a blast – for both kids and adults alike! It was so fun to watch the robotic dinosaurs move and hear the unique sounds they each made.Â
Along the regular animal exhibits, I enjoyed reading the little signs explaining similarities each animal has with these prehistoric giants.
Don’t miss the Forest Realm section in the back of the zoo up by the tigers. That’s where the T-Rex, Triceratops, and fossil digging table are located.“
Leah Tennant
Lantern Festival
From April to June, the zoo fills with beautifully crafted displays for the Lantern Festival, a wildly popular experience for all ages.
“Visiting the Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is a magical experience.
Once inside, you’ll find tons of photo opportunities with the beautifully crafted lantern displays. The interactive exhibits are perfect for all ages.
I was surprised to find out the gift shop at the zoo is open until 11:30 pm so make sure to stop in and grab souvenirs to remember the night. Don’t forget to grab a snack or drink from the food vendors to enjoy as you stroll through the amazing displays.
The Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo is a must-see event that promises an incredible evening for everyone.“
Amanda Shaffer
The Zoo Goes Boo
In October, the Zoo Goes Boo events provide spooky fun with decorations, treat stations, and performers.Â
Frequently Asked Questions About the John Ball Zoo
Where is the John Ball Zoo located?
John Ball Park is just five minutes from downtown Grand Rapids via Fulton St, making it easy to get to shops and restaurants at the end of the day.
When does the John Ball Zoo open?
Generally, the zoo opens in late March and doesn’t close until late November. The John Ball Zoo summer season hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., while off-season hours can vary.
How much is the John Ball Zoo?
The zoo offers both summer season and off-season prices for adults (13-61), seniors, college students with IDs, and military personnel.
Individual year-long membership and family memberships are available. Some discounts are available, and admission ticket purchases can be completed at the ticket window or online.
Where can you park at the John Ball Zoo?
The zoo offers on-site parking and an abundance of spaces.
Is there food at the John Ball Zoo?
You can’t bring food into the zoo, but there are several spots for food on-site — the Monkey Island Cafe, Central Plaza Dippin’ Dots, and Tiger Paws Pizza.
Plan Your Visit to the John Ball Zoo Today!
Whether you want to walk the whole zoo to see a marvelous menagerie of animals or experience the thrill of a zip line or high ropes course, the John Ball Zoo offers something for everyone. You’re never too old to enjoy a trip to the zoo to appreciate the animal kingdom.
Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop at the end of your visit for a fun souvenir to take home!
