Celebrating the Wonders of our Natural World...






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  • Zoo Tours

    Do you ever wonder what the grizzly bears’ favorite treat is, or where our Komodo dragon came from? If your troop is interested in learning cool and interesting facts about the zoo’s animals, then our private zoo tours are for you!! Come to the zoo and learn about the different animals, their personal stories, and ask all the questions your heart desires.

    We also offer a Behind-the-Scenes tour option in which your troop will get the opportunity to see our zoo kitchen, where we prepare all the animals’ breakfasts, lunches, and dinners!

    Who: All Scout Troops (Girl & Boy Scouts)
    Where: John Ball Zoo; 1300 W. Fulton; Grand Rapids, MI 49501
    Cost: General Zoo Tour (Service Groups, Scout Groups, Non-Profits, Home School)
    $25 base price for groups up to 8 people
    $3 for each additional person (group limit=20)
    Behind-the-Scenes Tour
    $56 base price for up to 8 people
    $7 for each additional person (group limit=15)
    When: Monday - Saturday (Sept-April), Sunday – Saturday (May-August)
    Tours are available during the daytime hours or after-school.
    Timeframe: 1 hour (2-hour tours are also available)
    Note: Price does NOT include regular zoo admission.
    Register: Please call 616-336-8951, or e-mail at guestprograms@johnballzoosociety.org