As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, anticipation is mounting for the much-awaited Opening Day at Binder Park Zoo, set to kick off on May 1st. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Battle Creek, MI, Binder Park Zoo has become a beacon for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers alike. With a mission to Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to Conserve, and a vision of turning apathy into empathy and compassion into action, Binder Park Zoo has been fostering a deeper connection between humans and the natural world. Binder Park Zoo offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore, learn, and engage with wildlife in their natural habitats.
One of the highlights of this season’s opening is the unveiling of the much-anticipated permanent home and habitat for our beloved goats. These charming animals, adored by visitors of all ages, will now have a new home in the east zoo where they can roam, graze, and delight guests with their playful antics. The new exhibit promises to offer a closer look at the lives of these fascinating animals while providing enriching experiences for guests. Returning this season, guests will have the opportunity to feed the goats, but will also be able to go inside the goat yard to brush the goats if they choose.
Set your sights higher this season as the Charles & Lynn Zhang SkyLark Ridge ropes course and zipline opens for its second season. Brace yourselves for an adrenaline-fueled journey among the treetops with this exhilarating ropes course and zipline experience! Set against the stunning backdrop of natural beauty, thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike are invited to soar to new heights and unleash their inner daredevil in an unforgettable aerial adventure. SkyLark Ridge spans 15,000 total square feet rising to 36’ at its highest point for spectacular views of zoo grounds. A separate structure called “Little Larks” has similar components but scaled for younger guests under 48” tall to have the same exciting experience. Each participant is fitted with a five-point full body safety harness and locked into a secured single redundant sling line the entire time they are on either attraction. An overhead tracking system allows guests the choice to walk or climb elements and obstacles like rope ladders, suspended bridges, cargo nets and more at their own pace on whatever level they choose to explore. SkyLark Ridge is an exhilarating adventure that combines family, fitness and fun inside the beautiful park-like setting of the zoo. For more information please visit: https://binderparkzoo.org/skylark-ridge/
But that’s not all! Binder Park Zoo is taking advantage of the nice weather with a soft-opening for its valued members set to take place on Tuesday, April 30!
“We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our valued members for an exclusive early preview of the zoo before our official opening day,” says Renee Newman, Director of Operations. “This soft opening is not only a special treat for our members but also an exciting kickoff for our dedicated staff as we embark on another season of adventure, education, and wildlife conservation.” Members will be able to visit all of their favorite animal ambassadors, ride the train or carousel, and feed the giraffe. Please note that SkyLark Ridge and face painting will not be available during this soft-opening.
Binder Park Zoo will be open from 11am – 5pm, last admission is at 4pm on April 30, members are required to have a current Binder Park Zoo membership. Guests interested in purchasing a membership can do so online prior to the day or at the entrance to take advantage of this special membership opportunity. To learn more about the zoo’s membership program visit: https://binderparkzoo.org/memberships/
“We are incredibly excited to open for the season once again and welcome guests to Binder Park zoo for our 47th season,” said Diane Thompson, President & CEO at Binder Park Zoo. “With new exhibits, interactive experiences, and a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable moments for our guests while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.”
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable summer journey filled with exploration, discovery, and endless fun. Summer Day Camps, Group Overnights, Family Overnights, and the anticipated Zoo Teen program returns this summer! From immersive wildlife experiences to thrilling overnight adventures, Binder Park Zoo invites families, groups, and teens to join us for a summer like no other.
Binder Park Zoo will open to the public on Wednesday, May 1 with daily hours Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Admission is $17.75 for adults, $16.75 for seniors 65+ and $14.75 for children ages 2-10. Children under age 2 are admitted free of charge. Plan your zoo visit, become a member or register for zoo programs online www.binderparkzoo.org.
