Detroit Zoo Tours and Activities

Detroit Zoo
Detroit Zoo featuring zoo animals and marine life
Detroit Zoo featuring zoo animals and land animals
Detroit Zoo featuring dangerous animals and zoo animals
Detroit Zoo


This splendid and varied zoological park offers visitors a unique perspective on the mighty polar bear at the largest polar bear exhibit in the US.

A visit to Detroit Zoo makes for a fantastic family day out. Its 50 hectares is home to 250 species from all over the world, including white rhinos, grizzly bears and the rare Amur tiger.

As you enter the zoo, the first exhibit you'll come across is the delightful Penguinarium, where king, rock hopper and macaroni penguins frolic in and out of the water. There are more winged creatures on display in the nearby butterfly garden and free-flight aviary. Amphibiville is a fascinating exhibit for anyone with an interest in frogs and toads, and serpent enthusiasts and lizard-lovers will get a kick out of the Museum of Living Reptiles.

Further into the complex, you'll find yourself in the midst of an Asian Forest. Keep an eye out for the red pandas and elusive Amur tiger – you won't miss the noisy macaques. Just next door is the African Forest exhibit. This faithful replica of a tropical rainforest is home to drills, chimpanzees and the majestic western lowland gorilla, as well as spoonbills and other small forest animals.

Forest gives way to savannah as you move into the African Grasslands, where you'll encounter a whole host of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, warthogs, aardvarks and white rhinos. The zoo's splendid lions, Simba and his female companions Bikira and Erin, are a must-see. Then it's just a short stroll to the other side of the world, where the no-barriers Australian Outback exhibit lets kids (and grown-ups) get up-close with wallabies and the iconic red kangaroo.

Finally, head to the Arctic Ring of Life exhibition for what is, for many visitors, the main attraction: the largest polar bear exhibit in the US. A transparent 21-metre tunnel under the enclosure gives you a unique vantage point from which to watch the zoo's three bears as they swim. Young thrill-seekers will love the Wild Adventure Ride and the zoo carousel. There's fun to be had indoors too, with a 4-D cinema and Wildlife Interpretive Gallery.

Detroit Zoo is located 21 kilometres north of the city centre and is serviced by the Detroit SMART bus. There is also reasonably-priced on-site parking. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Thanksgiving.

Popular places to visit


Top Detroit Zoo Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Charming Rustic Modern House Near Detroit Zoo

Charming Rustic Modern House Near Detroit Zoo

Pleasant Ridge
Charming Rustic Modern House Near Detroit Zoo
Hyatt Place Detroit Royal Oak

Hyatt Place Detroit Royal Oak

3 out of 5
422 N. Main Street, Royal Oak, MI
Hyatt Place Detroit Royal Oak
Hotel Royal Oak

Hotel Royal Oak

3 out of 5
811 East 11 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI
Hotel Royal Oak
RO B&B

RO B&B

2 out of 5
1102 Owana Ave, Royal Oak, MI
RO B&B
Charming home https://youtube.com/shorts/-31OOvCrLG0?feature=share

Charming home https://youtube.com/shorts/-31OOvCrLG0?feature=share

2 out of 5
Oak Park
Charming home https://youtube.com/shorts/-31OOvCrLG0?feature=share
This property offers a clean and comfortable modern vibe with updated furniture and decorations

This property offers a clean and comfortable modern vibe with updated furniture and decorations

2 out of 5
Berkley
This property offers a clean and comfortable modern vibe with updated furniture and decorations
Chic & Updated Retreat Near DT Royal Oak

Chic & Updated Retreat Near DT Royal Oak

Royal Oak
Chic & Updated Retreat Near DT Royal Oak
Charming and Spacious 3-bedroom House with WiFi, AC in nice Ferndale, MI

Charming and Spacious 3-bedroom House with WiFi, AC in nice Ferndale, MI

Ferndale
Charming and Spacious 3-bedroom House with WiFi, AC in nice Ferndale, MI
Discover Oak Park charm, just a quick ride to MGM Grand

Discover Oak Park charm, just a quick ride to MGM Grand

Oak Park
Discover Oak Park charm, just a quick ride to MGM Grand
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Detroit Zoo

At the Detroit Zoo, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including sports, soccer, and live music, making it a vibrant destination for both relaxation and entertainment. Whether you're keen to explore the animal exhibits or catch a live performance, the zoo offers a delightful mix of experiences for all ages, ensuring a memorable day out in Huntington Woods.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Urban Wave, only 805m from Detroit Zoo, offering a unique selection of gifts. Just 1.6km away, Royal Oak Farmers Market showcases local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Oakland Mall, 8.0km away, for a larger shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Ford Field and Comerica Park, both offering thrilling sports events just 17.7km from Detroit Zoo. For a more serene escape, unwind at Massage Green Spa Dearborn, located 20.9km away, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments for ultimate relaxation.

Adventure

Pine Knob Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing experiences only 33.8km from Detroit Zoo, perfect for snow sports enthusiasts. Alternatively, Alpine Valley Ski Area, located 35.4km away, provides exhilarating slopes. For a splash of fun, visit Red Oaks Waterpark, just 8.0km away, ideal for family adventure and entertainment.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Detroit Zoo! Catch a show at the Royal Oak Music Theatre, only 1.6km away, or enjoy family fun at AirTime Trampoline & Game Park, 9.7km away. For a romantic movie night, head to Bel Air Luxury Cinema, 12.9km from the zoo.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo, located in Royal Oak, offers a range of attractions including modern colleges, history museums, and art galleries. Ideal for families and culture enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy local points of interest while exploring the vibrant city experience. For a typical stay, plan engaging activities within and around the zoo, and don't miss the nearby Detroit attractions just a few miles away for a well-rounded vacation experience.

  • Detroit Golf Club: Experience the rich history and urban charm of this prestigious golf course, situated only 6.4km from the Detroit Zoo. The scenic fairways and lush greens offer a perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and sport.
  • Cranbrook House and Gardens: Delve into the cultural heritage of the area at Cranbrook House and Gardens, located 12.9km away. This historic estate features beautifully landscaped gardens and an impressive architectural design, making it a serene escape.
  • University of Detroit Mercy: Discover the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, located 16.1km from the zoo. With its contemporary architecture and active campus life, it reflects the dynamic spirit of the city.

Best time to go to Detroit Zoo

The best time to visit Detroit Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Detroit Zoo falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Detroit Zoo falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Detroit Zoo

For your visit to Detroit Zoo, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation rates, with Monday being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find great hotel deals by filtering for eco-friendly options and combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a budget-friendly package. Take advantage of public transport to save on travel costs and explore free activities available in the area. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, when prices spike, to keep your trip economical.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Detroit Zoo are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Detroit Zoo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Detroit Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near Detroit Zoo with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.