John Ball Zoo

John Ball Zoo is an internationally accredited zoological park located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and one of the oldest zoos in the United States, founded in 1891. Home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 200 species, the zoo features beloved residents such as lions, tigers, snow leopards, chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, grizzly bears, red pandas, and river otters. Highlights include an aquarium, the Wild Way Trail, and a range of interactive experiences such as camel rides, zip lining, and exclusive behind-the-scenes encounters with penguins, sloths, and red pandas. A recently expanded North American river otter habitat features underwater viewing tunnels and feeding cannons that simulate natural foraging behavior. The zoo is known for offering more hands-on animal experiences than any other zoo in Michigan, making it a premier family destination in West Michigan.