All of our experiences are generally available during the summer season. However, occasionally Mother Nature requires that we close them for safety.
Note: Availability is subject to weather. Please call (616)336-2017 for daily availability.
Large hoofed mammals, such as boar, deer, and elk
Tundra, Savanna, Mountainous areas, mixed deciduous and conifer forests.
Endangered
Yes
Eastern Russia and small areas of Eastern China
Male
Female
Female
Wild – Birds, fish, and mammals (Typically lemmings and mice)
Tundra When food is scarce, snowy owls travel south to warmer climates in winter.
Vulnerable
Yes
They have a circumpolar distribution.∙ Alaska, Canada, Greenland, as well as northern Scandinavia and Russia.
Male
Beautiful, shaded play area featuring wooden and rope bridges, play house area, and benches perfect for kids.
| Description | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Restroom | 2 family restrooms with a baby changer in each |
| Drinking Fountain | 2 drinking fountains with 1 bottle re-filler |
*Open seasonally
This shaded area features bench seating and a stage where you can find Daily Animal Programs. Visit our Daily Animal Programs page for the full schedule and details.
*Open seasonally
Berries, blossoms, bird eggs, bamboo leaves, birds, and small vertebrates o Bamboo constitutes 85 to 95 percent of the red panda's diet
Temperate climates in deciduous and coniferous forests
Endangered
Yes
Himalayan mountains in northern Burma, Nepal, Sikkim region of India, and the districts of western Sichuan and Yunnan in China
Male
Female
3 Female cubs: Rose, Ruby, Willow
The Upper Waterfall is a great place to take a rest. Enjoy a cool breeze off of the water as you look out at the Grand Rapids skyline and over the parts of the Wild Way Trail.
COMING YOUR WAY SOON!
Location: Forest Realm Trail near the Red Panda’s
This four story, 600-foot, Zipline is the real thing! Riders are securely harnessed before they step off the platform and fly over the waterfall to another ridge! Children must be 85 pounds and fit securely into the harness to participate. Closed back shoes are required.
All height, weight, clothing and harness restrictions must be met to ride this experience. Additional restrictions may apply, please see the Zipline restrictions listed below.
Combo tickets are currently unavailable due to Ropes Course Closure. Come prepared! View our full list of requirements for more information and have your waiver signed and submitted all online!
Zipline may close early due to inclement weather.
General Guidelines:
Please have the Individual Waiver Form filled out prior to your visit.
| PRICES | PUBLIC | MEMBER |
|---|---|---|
| Per Ride | $10.00 | $8.00 |
| Ropes Course and Zip Line Combo | $16.00 | $12.80 |
The Bissell Tree House, where fun and elegance meet, is situated on one of Grand Rapids’ highest points, is John Ball Zoo’s most picturesque venue.
Enjoy a spacious view of downtown with floor to ceiling windows, adjustable lighting for the perfect ambiance, and a covered deck set for cocktails, ceremonies, and more.
Whether you choose to host a seated meal or a casual cocktail party, the Bissell Tree House makes a memorable backdrop for any meaningful event in your life.
Hours of Operation: Weekdays 10am-4pm Weekends 9am-6pm *Weather Dependent
Guests taking the Funicular to the top of the Zoo should head to the lower depot right when they enter. When they disembark, they’ll find themselves at the highest point of the Zoo with a breathtaking view of Downtown Grand Rapids and will now be able to explore, walking entirely downhill. This is perfect for guests with strollers!
The other option is to take the funicular down to the main entrance. These guests should jump on the funicular at end of the Forest Realm Trail near the red panda’s and Bissell Tree House after they’ve explored the Zoo. By taking the Funicular back to the front entrance, visitors avoid retracing their steps.
General Guidelines:
| PRICES | PUBLIC | MEMBER |
|---|---|---|
| Per Ride | $4.00 | $3.20 |
