Slither Over to the Reptarium Michigan Zoo in Utica
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If you have ever wanted to spend the day with a Burmese python around your neck or with a baby alligator in your arms, then you need to schedule a visit to The Reptarium in Utica.
This Macomb County zoo is one of the only ones in Michigan that focuses specifically on reptile species, and it provides ample opportunity for visitors of all ages to interact directly with its animal residents.
About The Reptarium
The Reptarium is a relatively new addition to Southeast Michigan, having opened to the public in 2018. However, in the last several years, it has quickly become known as a summer bucket list destination.
When is the Reptarium open?
The Michigan zoo is open for general admission on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and people are able to purchase tickets for a one-hour visit. In addition to general admission on the weekends, the zoo is open for private tours and birthday parties during the week.
What Animals are at the Reptarium?
No matter which way you decide to experience this reptile zoo, you will be amazed by the creatures that are on display. Some of the animals that you can enjoy up close and personal interactions with include pythons, boa constrictors, monitor lizards, chameleons, geckos, baby alligators, tortoises, and more.
In addition to these slimy and slithering reptiles, you also can visit with a charming two-toed sloth, who is the newest addition to the zoo.
What can you do at the Reptarium?
The Reptarium has earned a reputation for allowing its visitors to go beyond the enclosures, and it specializes in hands-on wildlife education. Visitors are encouraged to handle and hold the reptiles that are at the zoo as qualified zookeepers work with them to provide more information about the proper care and maintenance of these beautiful creatures.
Not only do children love having a chance to meet these animals for themselves, but adults also find themselves getting in on the fun as well. There are few places in Michigan where you can handle these exotic reptiles.
More Things to Do in Utica
After a visit to The Reptarium, you can continue your day in Utica with a baseball game at Jimmy John’s Field. This is the only ballpark in Macomb County, and it’s also one of the most luxurious ballparks in the state. With a capacity of about 4,500 fans and a reputation for being a family-friendly destination, this is a favorite spot among local residents and travelers alike.
Its innovative features, such as the private patio suites and the on-field diamond tables make it one of the best places to watch baseball, grab a hot dog and enjoy a pop. Kids who attend the games can burn off some energy at the playground, while adults can take part in a round of whiffle ball as they watch the game.
This is a USPBL field that hosts various teams in the area, including the Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers, the Eastside Diamond Hoppers, the Utica Unicorns, and the Westside Woolly Mammoths.
Where to Eat in Utica
Jimmy John’s Field is conveniently located just outside of Downtown Utica, which means that you can easily head into town to grab a bite to eat in order to finish off your day in Macomb County.
Tivoli’s Pizzeria
Tivoli’s Pizzeria is a popular local pizza joint that has been serving up tasty pizza pies since 1975. The owner of this restaurant prides himself on the fact that he creates pizza in the old-world style using authentic family recipes that have been perfected over the years.
The key to his flavorful pizzas, however, is the wood-burning stove that is used to cook them. If you stop by this location, you will quickly find that you can get any type of pizza that you are craving, from classic pepperoni-topped pizza to gourmet pies made with shrimp or artichoke hearts.
Muldoon’s
Another casual and comfortable restaurant in Utica that is ideal for visitors of all ages is Muldoon’s. Muldoon’s is a local tavern that serves up burgers, sandwiches, and other entrees that are quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Smoothies Ice Cream Shop
Whether you opt for pizza or burgers for dinner, you will find that ice cream is the best dessert to consider in Utica. Smoothies Ice Cream Shop is a place nearby where you can get Hershey’s ice cream in a cup or cone and complete your day of memory-making in Macomb County.
Where to Stay in Utica
Looking to turn your day trip into an overnight this summer in Utica? Here are some nearby hotels in Utica where you can rest your head before another fun day of Michigan summer bucket list adventures: