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
Each tiger’s stripes are unique to them as our fingerprints are unique to us.
Currently there are approximately 500 or less Amur tigers in the wild.
Male
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 |
Enjoy Fresh Pizza and Breadsticks and watch the tigers while your children play in the Treetop Outpost! The ever-popular Pineapple Dole Whip can be found here and Guests 21 and up can enjoy our Dole Whip Moscato Floats or a nice Cold Beer.
*Open daily
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.
Located in the Forest Realm, our 21 and older guests can enjoy a variety of Craft Beers while getting a scoop of Dippin Dots or a Soft Pretzel for a snack.
*Open daily
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.
Enjoy a ride through the trees and above the zoo as you head to the top of the Forest Realm. The Funicular is perfect for folks looking for a ride to the top and leisurely stroll back down through the zoo.
Perfect for guests with strollers! The Funicular is an accessibility train where wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers are all allowed.
| PRICES | PUBLIC | MEMBER |
|---|---|---|
| Per Ride | $4.00 | $3.20 |
| Description | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Restroom | Women's restroom with baby changer |
| Restroom | Men's restroom with baby changer |
| Drinking Fountain | 1 drinking fountain with bottle re-filler |
