ULTIMATE Guide to the Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights
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Checking out the various holiday light displays in local neighborhoods has become a time-honored tradition in the Motor City, but there are, perhaps, no lights more magical than those at the Detroit Zoo.
Just outside of the city in Royal Oak, the Detroit Zoo lights display is fabulous and has become an annual pastime for many local families, as well as a must-attend event for visitors during the winter.
Known as Wild Lights, the Detroit Zoo’s holiday light display includes thousands upon thousands of twinkling colored lights, innovative displays, and sparkling lighted vignettes.
About Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo is a seasonal holiday lighting event that has been taking place annually for nearly a decade.
During this event, which generally starts around mid-November and lasts through early January, you can stroll through the zoo after dark to experience the beauty of millions of twinkling lights.
Along the way, you’ll walk through lighted tunnels, experience large lighted animal statues and displays, and witness the beauty of lighted holiday scenes.
It’s worth noting that the Wild Lights event takes place after hours in the front portion of the zoo. This outdoor event is held regardless of the weather, so if you plan to go, you will want to prepare for the elements.
Top Attractions to See at the Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights
On the surface, it seems like strolling through the zoo grounds and admiring the lights is the only thing to do at Wild Lights.
While this is one of the best things to do at the event, many other elements make it an enjoyable night for people of all ages. These are the top things to do at the Detroit Zoo lights, but keep in mind that the event experiences can change from year to year.
Visit the Toyland and Stepping Stones
The Toyland and Stepping Stones is a highlight for many of the families who visit the holiday lights at the Detroit Zoo.
Toyland is best known for its 40-foot-long lighted train, which ends up being one of the best spots in the zoo to grab a family photograph. In addition, it’s home to dozens of lighted toy sculptures, allowing the young and the young at heart to immerse themselves in a magical, dreamlike setting.
The Stepping Stones is an interactive musical light pathway where guests can step on illuminated pads that trigger sounds and lights. It combines movement, music, and color, making it especially popular with families and kids.
Sometimes, Wild Lights features The Wishing Tree, a larger-than-life lighted tree that is perfect for making holiday wishes.
Experience The Enchanted Rainforest
The Enchanted Rainforest transforms part of the zoo into a lush, glowing jungle experience, filled with vibrant, color‑changing light displays that mimic tropical plants and wildlife.
Guests also experience immersive soundscapes featuring rainforest ambiance and music, as well as illuminated creatures such as butterflies, frogs, and birds.
The forest is a walk‑through trail that gives guests the feeling of exploring a magical tropical forest at night. It’s designed to be one of the most visually stunning and immersive zones at Wild Lights 2025, offering a fresh experience even for returning visitors.
In the past, this experience has been The Enchanted Trail. Described as an immersive experience that incorporates both towering trees and the lights and sounds of the season, it has been a favorite for visitors.
Enjoy “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” 4D Theater Experience
This experience uses the same stop‑motion animation style as the beloved 1964 television classic, bringing Rudolph, Hermey, Yukon Cornelius, and the Abominable Snow Monster to life in a new way.
The 4D Theater combines 3D visuals with in‑theater effects, such as wind, snow, scents, and seat movements to fully immerse guests in the story. The experience runs only during Wild Lights dates at the Ford Education Center’s 4D Theater.
Keep in mind that additional fees apply for this experience, but interested guests can purchase it as part of a ticket package in advance.
Some years, “The Polar Express” is the 4D theater feature, showing the classic holiday story and film that has delighted generations of people.
More Things to Do at the Detroit Zoo Lights
The Detroit Zoo lights display is a dynamic experience that is designed to be a family-friendly event that still appeals to people of all ages.
While many holiday events in Detroit are geared toward families with young children who are soaking up the magic of Christmas, Wild Lights includes elements that appeal to a vast range of people. Here are a few more things to do during this annual holiday display.
Explore the Art Exhibition: Camouflage
The Art Exhibition: Camouflage is featured as a complementary indoor experience that guests can enjoy alongside the outdoor light displays. Located inside the Ford Education Center, near the main Wild Lights pathways, it adds an artistic and educational layer to the experience.
The exhibit blends art and natural science, encouraging visitors to think about how animals use light, shadow, and pattern — themes that mirror the creative lighting design of Wild Lights itself. It’s also perfect for warming up and seeing nature’s artistry from a new perspective.
In previous years, Wild Light has featured the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibit, an international exhibit was created by the Natural History Museum in London, England. It was celebrated by wildlife enthusiasts and passionate photographers around the world.
Warm Up at the Wild Lights Lodge
The Wild Lights Lodge is yet another element that has been incorporated into this traditional holiday event. Inside the warm and cozy lodge, you will find a welcoming reprieve from the winter weather in Michigan.
The lodge is covered from top to bottom in festive holiday decor, and you can purchase your favorite adult beverage or indulge in a delightful s’more. Live music and entertainment are scheduled throughout the season inside the Wild Lights Lodge.
Entrance to the lodge is included as part of admission, but snacks and beverages inside the lodge are available for purchase.
A Magical Family-Friendly Experience
Awesome Mitten writer Amanda Shaffer had a magical time visiting Wild Lights with her whole family.
“This winter, our family embarked on a mesmerizing adventure to the Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights event.
With a tiered ticket option, we enjoyed the Polar Patio, which had a delicious food buffet, so we didn’t have to plan out dinner. The kids loved having their endless cups of hot chocolate to enjoy throughout the zoo.
Make sure to try to purchase tickets online in advance to secure your spot. Some nights may sell out, and buying tickets online often provides discounts.
Wild Lights is designed to be family-friendly. You will experience enchanting light displays, festive decorations, and interactive light displays as well! We were completely filled with the holiday spirit while exploring the zoo’s grounds after dark.”
Awesome Mitten writer Amanda Shaffer
Things to Know Before You Go to the Wild Lights Event
Before you purchase tickets, there are some things to keep in mind about attending the Wild Lights Event at the Detroit Zoo.
- The cost of Detroit Zoo lights tickets varies based on the night that you choose to attend when you purchase your tickets and which package you get.
Generally speaking, tickets cost less when purchased in advance online. Also, the cost varies depending on demand for that particular date. No membership discounts are available for Detroit Zoo members. - The Detroit Zoo Wild Lights event programming is held regardless of weather conditions, including rain and snow. As a result, tickets that are purchased in advance for Wild Lights are non-refundable.
- Parking is available on-site for the Detroit Zoo, which guests are invited to use for the Wild Lights event. The cost is the same for members and non-members at the zoo.
- Most animal habitats will be closed and inaccessible. Although, you can see both the otter and beaver exhibits on the stroll through the lighted path in the front portion of the zoo.
- There are many food and beverage stations throughout the Wild Lights experience, allowing you to find the types of food and beverages you prefer to enjoy. While limited locations serve alcoholic beverages on-site, you’re not permitted to bring your own alcoholic beverages to Wild Lights.
- There are many events and activities to enjoy, so you can extend your experience for as long as you wish throughout the evening. However, if you plan to stick to the stroll on the designated path, it takes about one hour to complete.
Lodging Near Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo
From locally-owned hotels to nearby short-term rentals, there are many lodging options near the Detroit Zoo to consider. These are a couple of our favorite options.
Hotel Royal Oak
Hotel Royal Oak is described as a social boutique hotel, and it’s designed to appeal to modern travelers who want to be in the center of the city’s art and entertainment scene.
It is the closest hotel to the Detroit Zoo, making it the best option if you want to be close to the Wild Lights event.
There are a variety of room styles to choose from, yet every room features bright colors and eclectic designs. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience in a truly unique city and is one of the best places to experience the authentic culture of Royal Oak.
Downtown Luxury Apartment Rentals
Another option if you are looking to stay near the Detroit Zoo to experience Wild Lights is short-term vacation rentals. Throughout Royal Oak, many downtown lofts and luxury apartments are available for rent on VRBO and Airbnb.
Whether you want a studio apartment within walking distance of the best restaurants in the city or a luxury loft designed to accommodate an entire family, you will likely be able to find the rental that you need for a great price.
Plan Your Detroit Zoo Lights Experience
Going to Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo is just one way that you can make the most of the merriest season of the year.
Many other festive events in Metro Detroit throughout November, December, and January allow you to have fun with your family while soaking up the sights and sounds of the city, too.
More Photos of Wild Lights
