Families excitedly exploring the John Ball Zoo as it reopens for the spring season.
The John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is set to reopen its gates on March 21 for its 134th season, welcoming visitors with new attractions including lions and a warthog. Exciting events such as the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival and Wildlife Exploration Days are planned for the season, along with the launch of a new interactive exhibit, The Power of Pollinators, in July. Memberships offering exclusive benefits are also available for those looking to enhance their zoo experience.
The local favorite, John Ball Zoo, is ready to swing open its gates for an exciting new season on Friday, March 21. With the arrival of spring, this marks the zoo’s 134th year of delighting visitors with its wonderful array of animal attractions and activities. And boy, do they have some surprises in store for everyone!
As the days grow warmer, the buzz around town is palpable! The zoo’s CEO, Peter D’Arienzo, is particularly thrilled to open the doors once again and welcomes the community with open arms after months of preparation. Everybody knows that John Ball Zoo is not just a place to see animals; it’s a hub for family fun, learning, and creativity!
To spice things up this season, keep your eyes peeled for some adorable newcomers. Say hello to a lively warthog and two stunning lions named Amara and Upepo. Amara is a charming 6-year-old female, and Upepo is an impressive 9-year-old male. They’ll be part of the zoo’s Africa habitat expansion, which promises to wow visitors with authentic African wildlife experiences!
This season, John Ball Zoo is buzzing with activities! Every weekend offers something unique, starting with the spectacular Grand Rapids Lantern Festival. Immerse yourself in a magical evening filled with glowing lanterns and enchanting performances. For those looking to unleash their adventurous side, join in on the Wildlife Exploration Days, where guests can engage with various animal exhibits and learn how to protect our planet.
Also, don’t miss the zoo-themed 5K race – a great way to stay active while enjoying the beautiful zoo surroundings! And for night owls, Summer Nights will feature after-hours fun, making for a perfect summer evening with the family. Plus, there will be special Member Nights offering exclusive perks for loyal zoo-goers!
Adding to the excitement, there’s a brand new interactive exhibit set to debut in July called The Power of Pollinators: Tiny Creatures That Make BIG Things Happen!. This exhibit will showcase over 20 gigantic animatronic pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. It’s sure to be a crowd favorite and an educational experience for all ages!
For those keen on making the most of their zoo experience, memberships are currently up for grabs, offering great discounts on tickets, food, drinks, and unlimited daytime admissions. Regular operating hours run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, extending to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends through March.
The zoo is also working on an ambitious 2025 Master Plan that aims to bring back fan favorites like sea lions, expand the Africa habitat, and introduce giraffes to the zoo landscape. Plus, there are plans for an indoor South American biome that will surely enhance the visitor experience.
This season kicks off with a strong focus on environmental education and conservation advocacy, emphasizing the importance of protecting our planet and the amazing creatures we share it with. There’s something incredibly special about connecting with nature and learning how we can make a difference.
So, gather your friends and family, pack your snacks, and head over to the John Ball Zoo! Tickets for general admission and events can be conveniently purchased on the zoo’s website. While you’re at it, keep in mind that neighboring zoos, like Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park and Binder Park Zoo, are scheduled to open in May, making it a perfect time to explore the incredible wildlife communities in our area!
This spring, let’s take a moment to embrace the joys of nature and support our local treasures. John Ball Zoo is ready to welcome everyone back for a season packed with adventure!
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