Potter Park Zoo | Lansing

Potter Park Zoo, located in Lansing, Michigan, is the oldest public zoo in the state and a cornerstone of the local community since it opened in 1920. Nestled within the scenic 80-acre Potter Park along the Red Cedar River, the zoo itself occupies about 20 acres and is home to over 350 individual animals representing more than 160 species. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which affirms its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education.

Animal Exhibits and Key Attractions

Potter Park Zoo is designed to create an immersive and educational experience for visitors, offering close-up encounters with animals from around the globe.

1. African Savannah

This exhibit recreates the grassland habitats of Africa and includes:

Lions: A pride of African lions can often be seen lounging or prowling in their open-air enclosure.

Rhinos: Eastern black rhinoceroses, a critically endangered species, are part of a national breeding program.

Bongo Antelope: These elusive forest antelope with striking white stripes are part of conservation efforts due to their declining numbers in the wild.

2. Feline and Primate Building

An indoor exhibit showcasing:

Amur Tigers: Native to eastern Russia, these are among the rarest big cats.

Snow Leopards: Adapted to cold mountain regions, they are solitary and elusive.

Mandrills and Tamarins: These colorful monkeys offer guests a glimpse into the world of tropical primates, with a focus on social behavior and communication.

3. Wings from Down Under

This walk-through aviary allows visitors to interact with and feed more than 600 birds, including:

Parakeets

Cockatiels

Rosellas

It’s a favorite for families and a seasonal exhibit open from spring through fall.

4. North American Exhibits

Features animals native to Michigan and the surrounding region:

River Otters: Playful and active, often seen swimming and diving in their river habitat.

Wolves: Educational signage explains the role of predators in maintaining ecosystem balance.

Bald Eagles: Rescued birds that are non-releasable due to injuries, helping to educate the public about raptor conservation.

5. Farmyard EdVentures

An interactive petting zoo perfect for young children. Visitors can feed and pet animals like:

Goats

Sheep

Alpacas

Rabbits

Chickens

This area fosters early connections between children and animals while teaching basic animal care and biology.

6. Reptile and Amphibian House

Home to a collection of scaly and slippery residents including:

Boas and pythons

Poison dart frogs

Turtles and tortoises

Gila monsters

Educational panels provide insight into species adaptations, venomous vs. non-venomous traits, and conservation challenges.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

Potter Park Zoo places a strong emphasis on environmental education and community involvement. Programs include:

Zoo Camps and Classes: Seasonal offerings for children aged 5–12 focus on animal biology, ecology, and conservation in a hands-on environment.

Field Trips and School Programs: Aligned with Michigan science standards, these visits combine curriculum-based learning with direct animal observation.

Zoo Tots and Storytimes: Programs for toddlers and preschoolers feature stories, songs, and sensory play centered around animal themes.

Volunteer and Intern Opportunities: Adults and students can engage with the zoo's mission through docent roles, animal care assistance, and conservation outreach.

Conservation Efforts

As a conservation-focused zoo, Potter Park participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative effort by accredited zoos to breed and protect endangered species. This includes:

Eastern black rhinos

Red pandas

Snow leopards

Various birds and reptiles

Additionally, the zoo emphasizes sustainability in its operations, from recycling initiatives to energy-efficient buildings.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation:

April – Labor Day: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

After Labor Day – October: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM weekdays; 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM weekends

November – March: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

Closed on major holidays

Admission Fees (April–October):

Ingham County Residents:
Adults: $8.00
Seniors/Military: $6.00
Children (3–12): $5.00

Non-Residents:
Adults: $15.00
Seniors/Military: $13.00
Children: $5.00

Children under 3: Free

Special free admission for county residents on non-holiday Mondays from 9:00 AM to noon.

Accessibility and Services:

Certified sensory-inclusive by KultureCity, offering sensory bags and quiet zones.

Stroller and wheelchair rental available.

A private nursing room is provided in the Discovery Center.

Clean restrooms and hand-washing stations throughout.

On-site gift shop and seasonal concessions.

Location and Transport

Address: 1301 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lansing, MI 48912

Public Transit: Served by CATA Route 8

Parking: On-site, with accessible spaces available

Summary

Potter Park Zoo is more than just a zoo—it's a dynamic center for education, conservation, and recreation. Its compact yet thoughtfully designed layout makes it ideal for families, school groups, and tourists alike. Whether feeding colorful parakeets, watching otters at play, or learning about endangered species, visitors leave with a deeper understanding of wildlife and their role in protecting it. The zoo’s century-long legacy continues to grow through its mission of connecting people with animals and inspiring action for conservation.