WELCOME TO
JOHN BALL ZOO
Inspiring our community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment since 1891.
In Memory Of David Frey
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend David Frey. Mr. Frey was a major supporter of John Ball Zoo for more than 40 years; he offered valued advice and guidance along the way. David was a visionary and he always saw the potential of Grand Rapids to be the number one mid-size city in the country, he worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality. David also saw the potential of the Zoo and future projects as a major destination in our community. His passion and vision have inspired us to think big and to develop destination assets that drive our economy. The Frey family also helped make the first Penguin habitat possible, which housed some of the first Magellanic penguins brought to the United States. David was also an honorary co-chair of the Zoo’s Restore the Roar campaign. We are grateful for David’s time and the contributions he made to the Zoo.
EVENTS
There's Always Something Happening at John Ball Zoo!
No matter the time of year, we’re always finding new ways to provide you with a festive and interactive experience. Our Daily Animal Programs include animal trainings, animal feedings, and animals receiving enrichment. Event schedule subject to change due to unforeseen events.
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EDUCATION
Make Learning Come Alive for Your Students with Our Education Programs
EDUCATION
Make Learning Come Alive for Your Students with Our Education Programs
CONSERVATION
Conserving Wildlife and Wild Places in More Than 30 Countries
Conservation education is at the core of the Zoo’s mission and we strive to provide opportunities for our guests and partners to grow their knowledge, appreciation, and support of wildlife conservation.
SUPPORT
Providing customized and compassionate care to over 2,000 animals
From nourishing our animals with local produce in their diets to innovative medical care, our team provides customized and compassionate care to the over 2,000 animals that call John Ball Zoo home. None of this is possible without your philanthropic support.
Because we are a nonprofit organization, we rely on contributions from our community to help us go above and beyond in our daily operations. It is also important for us to give back to the community that’s given so much to us, and to inspire others to be active participants in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment.
Whether you choose to contribute to our Annual Fund, join the Conservation Circle, sponsor an animal, or form a corporate partnership, your support fuels our mission! We truly appreciate your dedication to wildlife conservation.
ZOO MAP
Explore Our Animals and Discover New Experiences
There is so much to explore when you visit John Ball Zoo! On your voyage beyond Entry Valley, you will discover captivating habitats like the Aquarium and Wild Way Trail along with fun, interactive experiences like Face Painting, Zip Lining, Camel Rides, and our Forest Realm Amphitheater. Click an area to zoom in and learn more about the animals!
SPONSORS
Your Support Makes Our Mission Possible!
When you support John Ball Zoo, you not only invest in exemplary animal care, state of the art animal exhibits, inspiring educational programs and first-class visitor amenities, but also in West Michigan. As a sponsor, your company will touch the lives of over 500,000 children and adults annually. We sincerely appreciate your support.
