John Ball Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation committed to the advancement of public education on the need for wildlife conservation and preservation. John Ball Zoo has over 2,000 …
John Ball Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation committed to the advancement of public education on the need for wildlife conservation and preservation. John Ball Zoo has over 2,000 animals including lions, tigers, chimpanzees, and red pandas, indoor and outdoor exhibits, an aquarium, interactive experiences, and so much more.
Reviews
Tripadvisor
4.0/5 · 781 reviews
5-star
62%
4-star
16%
3-star
8%
2-star
8%
1-star
6%
Recent reviews
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Aug 16, 2024
We were unexpectedly in Grand Rapids with 3 kids. Friends suggested the zoo so we went. A little expensive, but what isn’t these days? $75 for 1 adult and 3 kids. This is a medium sized zoo with lo… Full review by Excursion25999932348
Jul 7, 2024
We love this zoo! We have been multiple times since 2021 and have always enjoyed it! We love the variety of animals, the aquarium, and the landscaping. The layout of the zoo makes it very easy to wal… Full review by Lucinda M
Jun 7, 2024
What a wonderful zoo set in a beautiful wooded area. Some of the reviews I read left me skeptical, but I was blown away by this magnificent zoo. Are there areas of concern? Yes, the hill is a pain. T… Full review by Diane L
While researching the area because we're interested in seeing this zoo and the Pubic Museum, we read that Grand Rapids has an extremely high crime rate compared to the rest of the state and country. Is it safe to stay overnight in the area or even visit during the day?
A:
Grand Rapids is a huge area and just like any area It depends on where you stay. I personally have walked around downtown Grand Rapids and stayed downtown. Some areas have …
Grand Rapids is a huge area and just like any area It depends on where you stay. I personally have walked around downtown Grand Rapids and stayed downtown. Some areas have higher crime then others. Near the Zoo or even public museum I would feel perfectly safe. There is always people walking around both those areas as well.
Is this like the Joe Exotic or Doc Antler zoos where the animals are abused and tiger cubs are killed once they are too old to have their picture taken? Or do they not breed their animals or keep all that are born? Thanks,
A:
I do not think so. It is a very nice zoo. Unless you really like climbing, I would suggest taking the trolley to the top and walk down hill.