HELP US REACH THE TOP!!
Over
the next three years some fabulous new exhibits and amenities will be added
to John Ball Zoo. Every donation counts—large and small—please
become a supporter today and make these improvements possible.
WELCOME CENTER
The proposed visitor center will add restrooms and other amenities for the
Zoo’s guests. A new gift shop at the entry will be a convenient place
for great animal themed gifts for the whole family.
Near the Zoo entrance visitors will board the new funicular and begin their journey along a long curved railway track that winds towards Fulton Street then curves up and behind the children’s Zoo area to the highest point in Grand Rapids. Only a handful of funicular systems exist in the United States. The IDEMA FUNICULAR will be the first of its kind in the Midwest.
Once at the top, riders debark and proceed to the scenic OVERLOOK adjacent to the veranda of the BISSELL TREE HOUSE . At the overlook guests will be immersed in the forest canopy while enjoying the best view in the city. Inside the tree house, they might take part in a special event, participate in an educational program, or celebrate a family wedding.
After walking the hilltop trail the visitors will find themselves descending down a curving ramp and entering the AMUR TIGER EXHIBIT Much like the new lion exhibit, the tigers will have a green habitat nestled into a natural bowl in the hillside. Plenty of room and an enriching natural environment will add to the quality of life for these extremely endangered creatures.
When visitors reach the central core they will be overjoyed to see that the last of the Zoo’s oldest exhibits has been totally renewed. The current grizzly/dall sheep exhibits will be totally demolished and one bold and beautiful grizzly exhibit constructed. The GRIZZLY EXHIBIT will double the space for the Zoo’s two rescued grizzlies. Softer substrate, dirt, flowing water, and landscaping will now be their home.
or
Donate by phone - (616)336-3309
