Summer is a season for play. School is out, and families have more opportunities to seek out new adventures together. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, entertaining visiting family, or simply looking for a reason to get outside, John Ball Zoo offers countless ways to make the most of the season.
This year, there are more reasons than ever to visit:
The Zoo’s newest attraction, the North American river otter habitat, opened earlier this spring. Designed to showcase one of Michigan’s most playful native species, the habitat features multiple viewing areas that allow guests to engage with the otters in an entirely new way. Visitors get a face-to-face view of the otters both above and below the water. Witness lightning-fast dives and playful chases up close. The otters rarely stay still for long, making every visit a little different from the last.
Guests also won’t want to miss one of the Zoo’s biggest stars: Hugo, the pygmy hippo calf. Since his birth last fall, Hugo has become a favorite among visitors, and this summer marks the first time guests can regularly see him exploring his outdoor habitat alongside his mother, Penelope. Watching Hugo splash, play, and discover his surroundings offers a unique opportunity to witness an important stage in the life of one of the world’s most endangered mammals.
Beyond these headline attractions, summer at John Ball Zoo is filled with exploration and adventure. Zipline from the forests of North America, across Wild Way Trail, to the African savannah. Discover wildlife from around the world and learn how the Zoo’s conservation efforts are helping protect species both locally and globally.
Throughout the season, special programs and events provide even more chances for discovery. Six unique Wildlife Exploration Days offer hands-on experiences that connect families with nature and conservation, while adults can experience the Zoo after hours during Locked Zoo: Secret Safari, Jungle Jumble, and Desert Decoded. Daily animal encounters, keeper chats, and interactive experiences ensure there’s always something new to discover.
If you love animals, adventure, and play, John Ball Zoo invites you to step outside, explore something new, and experience the excitement waiting around every corner.
Visit JBZoo.org to learn more.