Veterans Day – All Military and Their Families Get FREE Admission
2019-11-11 10:00 - 16:00 UTC
Thank you to all of our veterans and military members! We’re offering free admission to all military AND their families this Veteran’s Day. We hope to see you at the zoo!

25th Annual Wonderland of Lights
2019-11-22 17:00 - 2019-12-29 20:00
Wonderland of Lights is open Thursdays through Sundays from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Nov. 22 through Dec. 29, 2019.
*Please note – Wonderland of Lights will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 for Thanksgiving. The regular schedule will continue Nov. 29*
Thousands of lights create extraordinary holiday lights displays at the 25th annual Wonderland of Lights! There will be cookie decorating, crafts and animal encounters for all to enjoy!

Santa is coming to the zoo!

Visit the magical “Santa’s Workshop” to write a letter to Santa and meet the man himself! Santa will be at Wonderland of Lights on Fridays and Saturdays starting Nov. 22. It’s a wonderful time to capture photos, so don’t forget your camera!

Admission for Wonderland of Lights

*Tickets can be purchased at admissions gate the day of the event or in advance at the admissions gate during regular zoo hours

$7 adults
$5 for kids 3-12
Free for kids under 3 years old

(Premium and Deluxe PPZ Members receive free admission to this event!)**
**Reciprocal zoo memberships do not allow access to special events such as Boo at the Zoo or Wonderland of Lights

Sponsored by McLaren and Jackson National Life

Toys for Tots at Wonderland of Lights
2019-12-07 17:00 - 20:00
It’s our annual toy drive and this year we’re stuffing a truck courtesy of Two Men and a Truck! Each person who brings in a new, unwrapped toy Dec. 7 will be admitted to Wonderland of Lights for FREE. Join your friends at the zoo to make this our most successful Toys for Tots night yet!
December 7 from 5 – 8 p.m.​

FALCONERS Sensory Friendly Wonderland of Lights
2019-12-10 17:00 - 20:00
FALCONERS is designed to allow children or adults of all ages with special needs and unique challenges (such as autism or developmental disabilities) and their whole family to have an enriching educational experience in a safe, welcoming and sensory friendly environment. There will be one sensory friendly event in Lansing, Michigan per month throughout 2019.

FALCONERS Wonderland of Lights!
Tuesday, December 10 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Potter Park Zoo is pleased to present a special, sensory-friendly Wonderland of Lights experience just for FALCONERS! Join us Tuesday December 10 from 5:00-8:00 PM. Thousands of lights will create extraordinary animal exhibits and holiday displays. There will be cookies, crafts, and animal encounters to enjoy. We will also provide a light dinner and hot chocolate for all participants.
Pre-registration required to get free admission to the zoo and access to the activities. Registration will close at Midnight on December 9th. Please call 517-342-2751 if you have any questions!
To register for the FALCONERS Wonderland of Lights event on Tuesday, December 10, please click here.

Falconers Sensory Friendly Event: Star Safari at Abrams Planetarium
2020-02-18 18:00 - 19:30
FALCONERS is designed to allow children or adults of all ages with special needs and unique challenges (such as autism or developmental disabilities) and their whole family to have an enriching educational experience in a safe, welcoming and sensory friendly environment. There will be one sensory friendly event in Lansing, Michigan per month throughout 2020.

February Event:

OFFSITE: Star Safari at Abrams Planetarium (MSU)

Tuesday, February 18, 2020 6:00-7:30 PM

In February, we are partnering with our friends at Abrams Planetarium on the campus of MSU for a special “Star Safari” program. This will be a different format from our other events as we will have scheduled activities rather than drop-in stations. Join us as we explore the stars and discover that many of the constellations we see are pictures of animals! We’ll learn a little bit about the mythology behind the constellations, and some facts about the animals they represent. Doors will open at 6:00 PM with live animals and activities in the lobby. Seating for the sensory friendly theater presentation will begin around 6:30 with the presentation beginning at 6:45.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT TAKES PLACE AT ABRAMS PLANETARIUM ON THE CAMPUS OF MSU.

This program is capped at 150 people because of limited seating in the auditorium at Abrams Planetarium!

Please be aware that food and drink are prohibited in the theater itself.

Click here to register for the Tuesday, February 18 FALCONERS event at Abrams Planetarium: https://potterparkzoo.doubleknot.com/event/falconers-february-2020/2627755

Animal Enrichment Event: Tailgate for the Animals
2020-02-28 08:00 - 17:00
Don’t miss it! College Day is the same day! (free admission to college students with valid college ID)
Animal Enrichment Event: Tailgate for the Animals (Open to all and free with admission!)
October 4, 2020, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
It’s time for some fun with the upcoming MSU vs UM football game. See the animals predict the outcome of the game, based on the choices they make.
Animal enrichment provides our animals with species-specific opportunities that encourage mental and physical activity and natural behaviors. It is good for the animals, and it allows us to glimpse some very interesting things.
Enrichment events are included with regular admission price. It’s a great time to see the animals at their most active. Photographers bring your camera for some great action photos!
​

College Day! (Free Admission to College Students with valid college ID)
October 4, 2020 – 9 – 5 p.m.
Don’t miss free admission to Potter Park Zoo for students with current college ID!

Animal Enrichment Event: Winter Gifts for the Animals
2020-02-29 13:00 - 15:00
Rescheduled to Saturday, February 29, 2020 1 to 3 p.m.
What are the animals at the zoo up to after the holidays? See what the animals do when they receive special gifts in boxes. Lots of fun for the family!

Enrichment events are included with regular admission price. It’s a great time to see the animals at their most active. Photographers bring your camera for some great action photos!

Session 1: FrogWatch USA Training at Potter Park Zoo
2020-03-08 13:00 - 16:00
Become a FrogWatch Citizen Scientist!

Potter Park Zoo is inviting Michigan residents to become volunteer citizen scientists and join the local chapter of FrogWatch USA. The program teaches volunteers how to identify frogs and toads by their breeding calls and help to gather data that supports a national network. This is a great program for adults and children alike and a great spring time activity for families, friends, individuals and groups to get outdoors. Families with children under 12 should contact us to ensure this program is right for them.

You do not have to be a frog or toad expert to be a FrogWatch USA volunteer! All you need is:

An interest in frogs and toads;
Attend one training session and join the local FrogWatch USA chapter
A commitment to follow the standardized protocol to monitor a wetland site over multiple evenings throughout the breeding season (February – August)

FrogWatch training classes for 2020 will be offered in the Coral Reef Room at Potter Park Zoo on the following dates:

Session 1: March 8 at 1:00 p.m. – Register Here

Additional dates and times for the same training:

March 21 – 1 p.m.
March 22 – 1 p.m.​

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to ppzfrogwatch@ingham.org with questions or for more information on the program. ​

*CANCELLED* FALCONERS Sensory Friendly Event: “Sense”-sational Zoo!
2020-03-21 10:00 - 13:00
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This event has been cancelled. Please read our blog for updates!

FALCONERS is designed to allow children or adults of all ages with special needs and unique challenges (such as autism or developmental disabilities) and their whole family to have an enriching educational experience in a safe, welcoming and sensory friendly environment. There will be one sensory friendly event in Lansing, Michigan per month throughout 2020.

March Event: “Sense”-sational Zoo!

Saturday, March 21 , 2020 10:00 AM-1:00 PM

March’s FALCONERS theme is “Sense”-sational Zoo! This is a new FALCONERS theme and we’ll be learning about the five senses, how animals use their senses to survive in the wild, and how that relates to us! Fun crafts and activities will let you discover new facts that you may have never known about the animals. Light snacks (and coffee for parents!) will be served.

We are planning to have all of the activities inside with the option to explore the zoo on your own. Please dress for the weather if you plan to go out into the zoo. The gift shop will open at 10:00 AM. The concessions will be closed during this event.

Click here to register for the Saturday March 21 FALCONERS event at Potter Park Zoo: https://potterparkzoo.doubleknot.com/event/falconers-march-2020/2627808

*Cancelled* Session 2: FrogWatch USA Training at Potter Park Zoo
2020-03-21 13:00 - 16:00
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This event has been cancelled. Please read our blog for updates!

Become a FrogWatch Citizen Scientist!

Potter Park Zoo is inviting Michigan residents to become volunteer citizen scientists and join the local chapter of FrogWatch USA. The program teaches volunteers how to identify frogs and toads by their breeding calls and help to gather data that supports a national network. This is a great program for adults and children alike and a great spring time activity for families, friends, individuals and groups to get outdoors. Families with children under 12 should contact us to ensure this program is right for them.

You do not have to be a frog or toad expert to be a FrogWatch USA volunteer! All you need is:

An interest in frogs and toads;
Attend one training session and join the local FrogWatch USA chapter
A commitment to follow the standardized protocol to monitor a wetland site over multiple evenings throughout the breeding season (February – August)

FrogWatch training classes for 2020 will be offered in the Coral Reef Room at Potter Park Zoo on the following dates:

Session 2: March 21 at 1:00 p.m. – Register Here

Additional dates and times for the same training:

March 8 – 1 p.m.
March 22 – 1 p.m.​

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to ppzfrogwatch@ingham.org with questions or for more information on the program. ​

*Cancelled* Session 3: FrogWatch USA Training at Potter Park Zoo
2020-03-22 13:00 - 16:00
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This event has been cancelled. Please read our blog for updates!

Become a FrogWatch Citizen Scientist!

Potter Park Zoo is inviting Michigan residents to become volunteer citizen scientists and join the local chapter of FrogWatch USA. The program teaches volunteers how to identify frogs and toads by their breeding calls and help to gather data that supports a national network. This is a great program for adults and children alike and a great spring time activity for families, friends, individuals and groups to get outdoors. Families with children under 12 should contact us to ensure this program is right for them.

You do not have to be a frog or toad expert to be a FrogWatch USA volunteer! All you need is:

An interest in frogs and toads;
Attend one training session and join the local FrogWatch USA chapter
A commitment to follow the standardized protocol to monitor a wetland site over multiple evenings throughout the breeding season (February – August)

FrogWatch training classes for 2020 will be offered in the Coral Reef Room at Potter Park Zoo on the following dates:

Session 3: March 22 at 1:00 p.m. – Register Here

Additional dates and times for the same training:

March 8 – 1 p.m.
March 21 – 1 p.m.​

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to ppzfrogwatch@ingham.org with questions or for more information on the program. ​

*Canceled* MSU Science Festival Event: Night at a Living Museum
2020-04-17 17:00 - 20:00
*This event has been canceled*
An Evening of Awesome, Interactive Experiences at a Living Museum!
Friday, April 17 – 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Explore conservation and the natural world as a part of the MSU Science Festival Nights at the Museum series.
Explore the zoo at twilight, when we are not normally open to the public! Visit select animal exhibits, chat with animal care staff, and discover the zoo in a whole new light. Hands-on activities will allow guests to learn about how we care for animals here at the zoo and our conservation efforts locally and globally.
The MSU Science Festival is a multi-day series of events that highlight science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Special events are held across the state, including talks, demonstrations, tours, open houses, and hands-on activities for lifelong learners of all ages. http://www.sciencefestival.msu.edu
This event is for all ages and admission is free!
The MSU Science Festival is a multi-day series of events that highlight science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Special events are held across the state, including talks, demonstrations, tours, open houses, and hands-on activities for lifelong learners of all ages. www.sciencefestival.msu.edu.

*Canceled* Party for the Planet
2020-04-26 13:00 - 15:00
This event has been canceled. Thank you for your understanding and support!
April 26, 1:00-3:00 (included with regular admission price)
In honor of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, the animals will be in action reacting to paper-mache creations designed by Haslett’s Murphy Elementary fifth graders. Expect opportunities for natural behaviors like foraging and ripping.
Animal enrichment provides our animals with species-specific opportunities that encourage mental and physical activity and natural behaviors. It is good for the animals, and it allows us to glimpse some very interesting things.
Enrichment events are included with regular admission price. It’s a great time to see the animals at their most active. Photographers bring your camera for some great action photos!

*CANCELED* Wine & Stein 2020
2020-05-14 17:30 - 21:00
*Please Note: This Event Has Been Canceled for 2020*
We’re having our annual 21+ and over spring bash and you’re invited! Come stroll around the zoo after hours while enjoying three live musical acts, tasty alcoholic beverage samples, and hors d’oeuvres from Michigan breweries, wineries, and restaurants.
This year we’re revamping our Wine & Stein event with a new layout to bring our guests to all areas of the zoo. We’re incorporating educational aspects into the event for those who would like to learn more about our incredible animals. This year’s focus is the critically endangered black rhino!
Celebrate spring while supporting Potter Park Zoo at the 11th annual Wine and Stein!

Event Details:
*This event is only for visitors over 21
Rain or shine, we got you covered!

Ticket Prices:
In Advance (online only): $30 members | $35 non-members
At the Gate May 16 $35 members | $40 non-members

Entertainment:
Enjoy live musical performances from amazing local artists
The Tenants
Shelby and Jake
Al Lopez
More to come!

Food & Beverage Vendors:
Details to come!

*Canceled* World Migratory Bird Day & Be A Tourist in Your Own Town
2020-06-06 10:00 - 17:00
*Please Note: This Event Has Been Canceled for 2020*
Welcome spring! World Migratory Bird Day celebrates the seasonal migration of millions of birds from their southern wintering grounds back to North America! Fun, family-friendly interactive stations throughout the zoo will share the importance of migratory birds. Activities provided by Potter Park Zoo and our partners including the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated in conjunction with GLCVB’s “Be A Tourist In Your Own Town.” Parking is free and so is admission with a “Be A Tourist” passport, which can be purchased at the zoo and many other locations in the Lansing area. On the day of this event CATA has discounted rates and provides a special bus stop inside the zoo.

Event Details:
June 6 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Admission Price:
Free with a “Be A Tourist” passport​ (passports just $1 each)
Regular admission prices apply without the “Be a Tourist” passport

Father’s Day at the Zoo – Dads Get FREE Admission
2020-06-21 09:00 - 17:00
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Zoo! All dads will receive FREE admission to Potter Park Zoo on June 21!
Farmyard EdVentures, Wings Down Under, Bungee Jump, Train and Pony rides are open for the season. We can’t wait to see you here at the zoo!

Fourth of July at the Zoo - Military Receive Free Admission!
2020-07-04 09:00 - 17:00
Happy Independence Day! The zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all to enjoy!

This year we’d like to say thank you by offering free admission to Potter Park Zoo to all United States Military.

Standard admission rates for the rest of your party. Can’t wait to see you at the zoo!

*Canceled* Zoo Days 2020
2020-07-07 09:00 - 2020-07-08 17:00
*Please Note: This Event Has Been Canceled for 2020*
Enjoy admission to Potter Park Zoo for only $2 with a voucher Tuesday, July 7 and Wednesday, July 8!
Join us for this wonderful family-friendly event presented in part by Meijer! We’ll have a variety of games and activities offered by our community partners, free Meijer give-aways, and of course, you can pay a visit to the animal residents!
Don’t forget to grab a complimentary popsicle on your way out!

Event Details:
July 7 & 8 during zoo hours (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Tickets: Admission is only $2 with a voucher and parking will be free. Vouchers can be found at the following Greater Lansing Meijer locations (one voucher needed per person at the admission gate):
*Vouchers will be available at the following Meijer locations approximately 2 weeks before the event date.

Okemos: 2055 W Grand River Okemos, MI 48864
Bath: 7157 E. Saginaw St. East Lansing, MI 48823
South Lansing: 6200 S Pennsylvania Ave. Lansing, MI 48911
West Lansing: 5125 W Saginaw Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
Lake Lansing: W Lake Lansing Rd East Lansing, MI 48823
Mason: 550 Hull Rd. Mason, MI 48854
Grand Ledge: 730 E Saginaw Hwy. Grand Ledge, MI 48837
DeWitt: 12821 Crossover Drive DeWitt, MI 48820

*Canceled* Animal Enrichment Event: Just Chillin’ with the Animals
2020-07-11 13:00 - 15:00
*Please Note: This Event Has Been Canceled for 2020*
July 11, 1:00-3:00 p.m. (included with regular admission)
See how the zoo’s animals keep their cool during the summer… think ice and summer food treats!
Animal enrichment provides our animals with species-specific opportunities that encourage mental and physical activity and natural behaviors. It is good for the animals, and it allows us to glimpse some very interesting things.
Enrichment events are included with regular admission price. It’s a great time to see the animals at their most active. Photographers bring your camera for some great action photos!
​

*Postponed* Sundown Safari - Family Camping at the Zoo
2020-08-08 18:00 - 2020-08-09 10:30
**Please note: this event has been postponed. Please check our website for up to date information*
Experience the zoo after dark! For one night only, families and small groups are invited to camp out at the zoo overnight!
After setting up their tents, campers will go on a guided tour of the zoo, enjoy s’mores around the campfire, watch a movie under the stars, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature (you may even hear the wolves howl!)! A continental breakfast and zoo admission the next day are included.
Participants must provide their own gear (tent, sleeping bags, etc), and children must be accompanied by an adult. Questions? Contact the Education Department at 517-342-2713.

Event Details:
August 8, 2020 @ 6:00 p.m. through August 9 @ 9:30 a.m.
(Registration is required! Last day to register is August 7, 2020)
Registration opening soon!

Cost:
$40.00 per Adults
$40.00 per Youth​
$35.00 per PPZ Member Adult
$35.00 per PPZ Member Youth
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made at least 7 days in advance are eligible for a refund, minus a $20 cancellation fee. Cancellations made 2-6 days in advance will be refunded at 50% of the cost. Cancellations less than 48 hours in advance or no-shows are ineligible for a refund.

*Postponed* Members Night 2020 - Member's Exclusive Event
2020-08-12 17:00 - 20:00
*Please note: this event has been postponed. Please check our website for up to date information*
Potter Park Zoo Members… Join us for the exclusive event Wednesday, August 12, 2020 from 5 – 8 p.m.
We dedicate this night to you! This event is all about celebrating the contribution our members make to the future of the zoo.
This fun-filled evening will include:

Special Animal enrichments
Behind the scenes experiences
Kids activities
Dinner and more!

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2020 from 5 – 8 p.m.
Current Potter Park Zoo Members – Check your email the end of July for the member registration link!
Pre-registration is required, so we can plan appropriately for all the fun!
Not a Zoo Member Yet?
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a member, now is your chance to find out! Purchase a membership here! Member’s Night Admission includes the number of guests normally admitted under your membership. If you have others who want to join you… check out a special opportunity below.
Special Opportunities for non-members:
Those non-member attendees who purchase a ticket will have the opportunity to have their ticket total deducted from a membership purchase within two weeks after the event. Offer is valid through August 31, 2020
A limited number of non-member tickets are available to this unique event. Advance purchase online only. Tickets will be available soon!

Grandparent’s Day at the Zoo - All Grandparents Get FREE Admission at the Gate
2020-09-13 09:00 - 17:00
Grandmas and grandpas are the best. Join us in celebrating grandparents’ day by spending a day at the zoo!
All grandparents receive free admission ticket at the gate on September 13, 2020. We can’t wait to see you at the zoo!
Please Note: Free admission for grandparents is not available to be reserved online and can be obtained only at the admissions gate. All other members of your party are encouraged to purchase a timed-entry ticket online before arriving at the zoo.

Ingham County Free Day!
2020-10-03 09:00 - 17:00
Ingham County & Lansing City Residents will receive free admission to Potter Park Zoo on October 3, 2020!
The zoo will be open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. See you at this fun (FREE) event! Visitors will still be responsible for parking fees.

We highly recommend purchasing your General Admission timed entry tickets online.
To receive free admission online for Ingham County Free Days, guests will have to create an account in order for the address to be verified and receive free admission. Out of county residents are welcomed to come to the zoo this day, but will be charged regular admission rates.
Guests can purchase their tickets at the gate without reserving an arrival time, but we cannot guarantee admittance at the time of your arrival due to capacity limits. You may have to wait for the next available time window if the zoo is at maximum capacity when you arrive.
Please bring an ID to verify Ingham County residency for tickets purchased online or to receive your discount at the gate.

College Day - FREE Admission for College Students at the Gate
2020-10-04 09:00 - 17:00
If you have been directed to self-quarantine, including the addresses listed here, please do not visit the zoo until the quarantine is lifted.

College Day! (Free Admission ticket at the gate for College Students with valid college ID)
October 4, 2020: 9 – 5 p.m.
Don’t miss free admission to Potter Park Zoo for students with current college ID!
Please Note: Free admission for college students is not available to be reserved online and can be obtained only at the admissions gate. All other members of your party are encouraged to purchase a timed-entry ticket online before arriving at the zoo.
​

Fall Zootacular: October 10 & 11
2020-10-10 09:00 - 2020-10-11 17:00
This year Potter Park Zoo is celebrating fall in a whole new way! Put on your best Halloween costumes and celebrate with the whole family at Potter Park Zoo!

Join family and friends for a socially distanced stroll through the zoo and enjoy the beautiful autumn colors and fall décor. See your favorite animals while in costume.
Boo in a bag! All of our candy stations have been combined into one treat bag, which will be handed out as guests exit the zoo.
Participate in unique no contact activities as you stroll through the one way path through the zoo (you may adventure around the zoo as many times as you’d like!)
Enjoy a fall favorite – cider & donuts for sale only during Fall Zoo-tacular weekends. Delicious Groovy donuts will be for sale, provided by Capital City Market!

Please note: “Fall Zootacular” does not include the activities that the zoo offered at Boo at the Zoo. No activity tickets will be available for purchase inside the zoo.

Event Details
Join us for Fall Zootacular from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on three different weekends!

October 10 & 11
October 17 & 18
October 24 & 25

Admission & Reserving Your Arrival Time

Reserving your arrival time online, including Premium & Deluxe Members, is highly recommended. Online reservations will be no cost and all guests will pay at the admissions gate. Please bring a confirmation of your arrival time to the admissions gate (digital copies on your phone are great!)

We expect to sell out on these days. We will accept walk ups at the gate when we are below our maximum occupancy. A wait time may be required for walk up admissions, but please know we will not be able to guarantee admission if the zoo is at capacity.
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Reserve Your Arrival Time for Fall Zootacular! (Admission to be paid at the gate)
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Ticket Availability Updates:

October 11, 2020 Coming Soon!
October 12, 2020 Coming Soon!
October 17, 2020 Coming Soon!
October 18, 2020 Coming Soon!
October 24, 2020 Coming Soon!
October 25, 2020 Coming Soon!

Admission Rates for Special Event

Ingham County Resident Adult – $7.00
Non-Resident Adult – $13.00
Ingham County Resident Senior (60+) – $5.00
Non-Resident Senior – $11.00
All Children (ages 3-12) – $5.00
All Children Under 3 – FREE
Deluxe & Premium Members – FREE

Become a member or upgrade your membership today for free admission to this event!
Please note: reciprocal zoo/aquarium member discounts do not apply to special fundraising events such Fall Zootacular, Boo at the Zoo or Wonderland of Lights.

Guidelines for Visiting the Zoo
Masks are required to enter the zoo, when indoors, and when within six feet of anyone outside of your household. Mobility devices and stroller rentals, membership sales, and the AniMall Gift Shop are located in an indoor area where masks are required. If you do not bring your mask with you, you will be asked to purchase one at admissions. Thank you for helping to keep the zoo a safe place for everyone!
Signs and paw prints have been placed throughout the zoo to guide guests in proper social distance. Please be patient at viewing areas and if all marked spaces are occupied, wait until a household exits the viewing area to take their place. All indoor animal viewing areas are closed.
Visit https://potterparkzoo.org/reopening-guidelines/ for more information before you visit!

Fall Zootacular: October 17 & 18
2020-10-17 09:00 - 2020-10-18 17:00
This year Potter Park Zoo is celebrating fall in a whole new way! Put on your best Halloween costumes and celebrate with the whole family at Potter Park Zoo!

Join family and friends for a socially distanced stroll through the zoo and enjoy the beautiful autumn colors and fall décor. See your favorite animals while in costume.
Boo in a bag! All of our candy stations have been combined into one treat bag, which will be handed out as guests exit the zoo.
Participate in unique no contact activities as you stroll through the one way path through the zoo (you may adventure around the zoo as many times as you’d like!)
Enjoy a fall favorite – cider & donuts for sale only during Fall Zoo-tacular weekends. Delicious Groovy donuts will be for sale, provided by Capital City Market!

Please note: “Fall Zootacular” does not include the activities that the zoo offered at Boo at the Zoo. No activity tickets will be available for purchase inside the zoo.

Event Details
Join us for Fall Zootacular from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on three different weekends!

October 10 & 11
October 17 & 18
October 24 & 25

Admission & Reserving Your Arrival Time

Reserving your arrival time online, including Premium & Deluxe Members, is highly recommended. Online reservations will be no cost and all guests will pay at the admissions gate. Please bring a confirmation of your arrival time to the admissions gate (digital copies on your phone are great!)

We expect to sell out on these days. We will accept walk ups at the gate when we are below our maximum occupancy. A wait time may be required for walk up admissions, but please know we will not be able to guarantee admission if the zoo is at capacity.

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Reserve Your Arrival Time for Fall Zootacular! (Admission to be paid at the gate)
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Admission Rates for Special Event

Ingham County Resident Adult – $7.00
Non-Resident Adult – $13.00
Ingham County Resident Senior (60+) – $5.00
Non-Resident Senior – $11.00
All Children (ages 3-12) – $5.00
All Children Under 3 – FREE
Deluxe & Premium Members – FREE

Become a member or upgrade your membership today for free admission to this event!
Please note: reciprocal zoo/aquarium member discounts do not apply to special fundraising events such Fall Zootacular, Boo at the Zoo or Wonderland of Lights.

Guidelines for Visiting the Zoo
Masks are required to enter the zoo, when indoors, and when within six feet of anyone outside of your household. Mobility devices and stroller rentals, membership sales, and the AniMall Gift Shop are located in an indoor area where masks are required. If you do not bring your mask with you, you will be asked to purchase one at admissions. Thank you for helping to keep the zoo a safe place for everyone!
Signs and paw prints have been placed throughout the zoo to guide guests in proper social distance. Please be patient at viewing areas and if all marked spaces are occupied, wait until a household exits the viewing area to take their place. All indoor animal viewing areas are closed.
Visit https://potterparkzoo.org/reopening-guidelines/ for more information before you visit!

Fall Zootacular: October 24 & 25
2020-10-24 12:00 - 2020-10-25 17:00

Veterans Day – All Military and Their Families Get FREE Admission at the Gate
2020-11-11 10:00 - 16:00
Thank you to all of our veterans and military members! We’re offering free admission to all military AND their families this Veteran’s Day November 11, 2020. We’re open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.We hope to see you at the zoo!

Please Note: Free admission for veterans and their families is not available to be reserved online and can be obtained only at the admissions gate. All other members of your party are encouraged to purchase a timed-entry ticket online before arriving at the zoo.
​

Paint with Us! Jaali the Black Rhino Fundraiser
2021-01-23 17:00 - 19:00
You’re invited!
What: Paint with Us: Jaali the black rhino calf fundraiser
When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021 from 5 – 7 p.m. (EST)
Where: Virtual Live Zoom Event!
Come paint with us and wish Jaali a happy 1st birthday! Are you a Jaali super fan? Love creating art? Or simply want to have fun night in supporting Potter Park Zoo?
Join us for this one-of-a-kind virtual fundraiser as we paint Jaali the black rhino calf. Gather your friends, family, or co-workers in a safe, social distancing environment for this live virtual painting event. No experience is necessary! The Paint Your Poison artist will guide you step-by-step through creating your masterpiece.

Registration
Register for the event here!
Painting Kits Range from $40-$46 each. For questions or assistance registering, please contact Paint Your Poison at 517.220.0058 or at info@paintyourpoison.com

Part of the proceeds of each ticket will go toward supporting Potter Park Zoo and its mission of inspiring the conservation of animals and the natural world.
“In honor of Jaali’s first birthday, we wanted to celebrate with the community and provide an opportunity for everyone to enjoy a fun-filled evening while supporting the zoo” – Amy L. Morris Hall, Society Executive Director.

Ice Safari 2021
2021-02-20 10:00 - 2021-02-21 16:00
What: Ice Safari
When: Saturday, Feb. 20 & 21, 2021 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo
Visit the zoo and experience our Ice Safari! There will be animal ice carvings displayed throughout the zoo. The installations will be provided by Miller Ice Sculptures of Lansing. Tour unique art and learn about conservation efforts with messaging attached to each sculpture. Live carvings will also be featured in the Green Space Feb. 20.
Never visited the zoo in the winter? Many of our animals thrive in the cold, and will be out and about for you to observe – bald eagles, wolves, otters, Arctic foxes, and the snow leopard to name a few.
We would like to thank the following organizations for generously sponsoring our sculptures:
MSU Federal Credit Union
Chick-fil-A Lansing
Liberty Tax of Lansing
Berghorn Group
Potter Park Zoo Docent Volunteer Association
Outback Steakhouse, Okemos
Reservations
Make your reservation Feb.20 or Feb.21. Regular admission fees will be paid upon guest arrival.
Proceeds from this event will support Potter Park Zoo and its mission of inspiring the conservation of animals and the natural world.
