Membership Frequently Asked Questions
Questions
Q: How do I request an additional or replacement membership card?
A: As of June 2009, all members now receive 2 membership cards.
If you've misplaced your card permanently, you can order a new card for
a $5 processing fee*. The Membership Office is open Monday–Friday
from 8:00am-4:30pm excluding holidays (616/336-4311). *Prices subject to
change.
Q: Why do I have to show a photo I.D. when I use my card at the
zoo?
A: John Ball Zoo Society is a non-profit organization, and depends upon
the revenue generated by memberships to continue supporting John Ball Zoo.
Requiring a photo I.D. at admission prevents the abuse of our membership
policies, which are designed to serve our constituency and support the zoo.
Q: Can a friend or family member use my membership card?
A: Memberships are nontransferable and are valid only for named cardholders.
Your membership has a tremendous value. To protect the rights of our members,
we will ask to see your photo ID, such as a driver's license, at the time
of your visit.
Q: If the other member on my card cannot make it to the zoo, can
I bring a friend instead?
A: For the reasons mentioned above you may not substitute a friend for a
named cardholder. If you wish to bring friends to the zoo, please upgrade
to a membership with guest privileges, such as the Household Plus One level,
or purchase admission at the gate.
Q: We currently have a Kid Keeper listed on our membership. What do we do now that this program has ended?
A: Your Kid Keeper will be honored until your membership expires in 2011. At that time you or your Kid Keeper can purchase an Individual Membership for $30. They can enter the Zoo with that while your children are still covered under your membership (please have card present upon visit).
Glossary of Terms
Senior Adult: Individual 62 or older who is named on the membership card.
Named Cardholder: Individual 18 or older who is named on the membership card. All adults named on a membership card must have the same address (ID is required at each visit).
Child: Individual 19 or younger who shares a household with the member adult. Children 15 to 19 may visit the Zoo without an adult member if they have your Household (or Household +1/+2) membership card and a license/State ID. The address on their ID must match the address on your membership card.
Grandchild: Individual 19 or younger who is the grandchild of the named cardholder.
Guest: Members in some categories may bring guests with them at each visit. Guests must be accompanied by a named cardholder.
Reciprocal Membership Frequently Asked Questions
Click here for our Reciprocal Membership Frequently Asked Questions.
