Get ready to give gifts that spread joy and make a real impact! This season, our thoughtfully crafted Potter Park Zoo Holiday Gift Guide is filled with unique, animal-inspired gifts that any wildlife enthusiast will adore. And the best part? Every purchase directly supports our mission to inspire conservation of animals and the natural world. While our online ordering system is currently down, you can still purchase gifts by calling 517-342-2713 or by visiting us in person to pick up your items. Let’s make this holiday season one filled with meaningful gifts and the magic of wildlife!
Adopt an Animal – A Special Connection Through Symbolic Adoptions!
Honor an animal-loving friend or family member by symbolically adopting one of our animals! It’s a heartfelt gift that supports the care of our incredible zoo residents. This symbolic adoption is a great gift for animal lovers, aspiring veterinarians and zookeepers, friends, teachers, and even yourself! Be sure to adopt by Dec. 17 to guarantee holiday delivery.
Wonderland of Lights Tickets – The Gift of Tradition
Create magical memories together at Wonderland of Lights! Stroll through breathtaking displays and enjoy festive music and family-friendly activities from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, from Nov. 22 – Dec. 23. Enjoy some hot cocoa as you experience the wonder of the season and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus on Fridays and Saturdays. This holiday experience is perfect for families and friends looking to start a heartwarming tradition. You can purchase tickets in advance at the Discovery Center front desk or by calling 517-342-2713.
2026 Wildlife Calendar – A Year of Animal Magic Through the Lens of Visitors Like You
Bring a touch of zoo enchantment home! Our 2026 Wildlife Calendar showcases stunning photos from winners of our Zoo Photo Calendar Contest. Every month brings a beautiful image of one of our animals along with space for marking special events. Available at the AniMall gift shop and over the phone at 517-244-8042. Every calendar purchased goes towards supporting wildlife conservation.
AniMall Gift Shop – Find the Perfect, Unique Gift!
The AniMall Gift Shop features a variety of eco-friendly and conservation-focused gifts, from clothing to toys and home décor. As always, the AniMall is open without zoo admission, so stop by and let our staff help you find gifts that give back! For those who love to pick out their own gifts, a Potter Park Zoo Gift Card is the perfect choice. Available on-site and by phone, these cards let the recipient explore and choose something special that aligns with their passion for wildlife. Looking for the most unique gift at the zoo? Pick up original animal artwork — paw prints, tail swishes, nose boops, and more — created by our residents and curated by the Potter Park Zoo chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK). These items are a staff favorite in the AniMall and are available as magnets, keychains, and ornaments, as well as framed and unframed pieces in varying sizes. The AniMall Gift Shop is open daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Animal Enrichment Wish List Items
This holiday season, why not make a difference for the animals at Potter Park Zoo? Visit our special Animal Enrichment Wish List online, where you can browse unique items that help provide our residents with engaging activities and mental stimulation all year long
Potter Park Zoo Membership – A Gift of Adventure All Year Long!
Give the gift of year-round fun, learning, and exploration. A Potter Park Zoo membership includes free standard admission, savings in the gift shop, special pricing on events, and reciprocal discounts at participating AZA zoos nationwide.
To ensure membership cards arrive by Christmas, order by Dec. 17—or grab a digital welcome packet for last-minute gifts.
Make a Donation – Give Back to Wildlife
If you’re inspired by our mission, consider making a tax-deductible donation to the zoo. Every contribution supports our commitment to animal care, education, and conservation. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the natural world.
Animal Ornaments – Creative Fun for the Whole Family
Spark some creativity with our animal-themed ornament painting kits, featuring designs inspired by zoo favorites. Each kit supports conservation work and gives you the chance to create a meaningful keepsake for the holidays. A perfect family-friendly activity that gives back.
Every gift in this guide helps provide the exceptional care our animals rely on. Thank you for supporting them this season. Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and wonderful holiday!
-Potter Park Zoological Society Team
