10 Reasons To Visit Potter Park Zoo in Lansing

Visiting the zoo and learning about the animals is definitely a summer must for families in Southeast Michigan.

We are lucky to be central to a few great animals gems like the Detroit Zoo and the Toledo Zoo. One that should be top of mind as well is Potter Park Zoo, located in Lansing. Our family adores this zoo for its walk-ability and affordability. It’s definitely a great spot to spend a summer morning!

Here are my top 10 reasons to visit:

10 reasons to visit Potter Park Zoo:

It’s affordable. Without a membership, zoos are an expensive outing for a larger family. This one is a bit more manageable financially, especially since kids are just $4 and ages 3 and under are free during summer. In the off-season, it’s even cheaper, and is a great spot to spend an unseasonably warm winter day since it’s open year-round.

You can get reallllly close to the animals. For little ones, this is a must. When the cages are huge and the animal can hide, kids under the age of 3 just can’t see the animal unless it’s moving. This is rarely an issue at Potter Park since kids get the chance to get really close to see everything. Our favorite are the big cats, which come right up to the glass.

It’s walkable for little ones. My kids are too big for a stroller, but sometimes walking is just too much in summer’s heat. I love that this zoo is just enough walking to tire my kids out, but we are able to leave without too much complaining.

Food is reasonably priced. Unlike many tourist attractions, the food at the Potter Park Zoo is pretty affordable. Of course, bringing a picnic and finding a shady spot is always your best bet to save money, but it’s always nice to treat the kids to an ice cream or a special drink, especially on a hot day.

There are great special events. Potter Park has its own Boo at the Zoo, Wonderland of Lights, occasional low-cost days, and more. These are fun special events are the perfect excuse to visit the zoo fun at various points in the year.

A visit doesn’t have to take up your entire day. If you can only go for a half a day, it’s worth it. This is invaluable to me as a mama of a sensory sensitive kiddo who just can’t handle the heat and walking all day. There are plenty of other fun things to do around Lansing, too.

Camel rides, pony rides and a train ride – ’nuff said. If you want to have a unique experience, try one of the ‘extras’ for an additional cost.

Petting farm. I’m telling you, the goats at the petting farm have it made. They get to lay in the sun all day and get fed and brushed. My kids love interacting with these guys!

Great playground area. If you have some time before or after your visit, check out the fun playground outside the gates. Perfect for getting any energy out before hitting the road!

A good variety of animals. With more than 160 different species, there is bound to be something the kids will want to see.

Hours & Rates

• Summer hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. {April 1 – Labor Day}
• Fall hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. {weekdays}, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. {weekends} – Sept. 6 – Oct. 31

Summer & Fall Rates:

• Resident adult: $6
• Non-resident adult: $11
• Resident senior: $5
• Non-resident senior: $10
• Children {ages 3-12}: $4
• Children under 3: FREE

*Parking is an additional $5, so make sure to carpool!*

November – March Rates:

• Adults: $3
• Children {3-12}: $2
• Children under 3: FREE

What are your favorite reasons to visit Potter Park? Chime in!

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