Open Year-Round
(Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day)
April 1 - August 31, 2025: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Septemberl 1 - December 30, 2025: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Detroit Zoo practices dynamic pricing, so date of visit, time of entry, ticket availability, and date of actual ticket purchase are all determining factors in the pricing. Typically, the further in advance you purchase your tickets the better the pricing will be.
Discount admission to the Zoo ranges from $14 -$21 for General admission / $12 -$18 for Youth/Senior admission.
Parking not included. Prices and operating schedule are subject to change without notice.
Let's work together. Please be respectful, help each other and help protect the endangered animals.
Offer not valid for special or evening events and cannot be combined with other promotions. Tickets are non-refundable. Limit 6 tickets per order.
Welcome to Detroit’s Brightest Tradition
Wild Lights, presented by Michigan First Credit Union, is a holiday light show, a nighttime stroll and a core family memory waiting to happen. More than 500 dazzling displays and millions of LED lights guide you through a trail filled with wonder, warmth, sound and surprise.
Whether it’s a bundled-up family outing, a cheerful date night, a gathering with friends or simply a moment to breathe in the beauty of winter, this event offers something meaningful for anyone who experiences it.
When is Wild Lights happening in the 2025/26 season?
November: 22, 23, 28-30
December: 5-7, 11-23, 26-31
January: 2-4
Fridays and Saturdays: 5 – 10:30 p.m.
All other days: 5 – 9 p.m.
What to expect
- Millions of LED lights transforming the Zoo into a nighttime wonderland
- Themed zones, including the Enchanted Rainforest and Field of Lights
- More than 500 illuminated animal- and nature-themed displays
- Pop-up performances and music throughout the trail
- Santa photos available for purchase (through Dec. 23)
- Camouflage art exhibition
- Seasonal drinks, eats and sweet treats for purchase
- Fire pits and warming areas to gather
- 4D Theater and glow-with-the-show lanyard add-ons
- A variety of ticket options to meet every need
This is an outdoor event and limited to the front half of the Zoo. There will be no access to animal habitats during your Wild Lights experience. Children younger than 2 are admitted free. member discounts do not apply to this event. Wild Lights is hosted rain, snow or shine.
Prices range $17 - $25 based on date, time and ticket availability.Parking not included. Parking is $8 per vehicle for all members and non-members.Tickets MUST be purchased at least 24 hours in advance of intended date. Tickets are non-refundable. Offer expires January 3, 2026.
Prices and operating schedule are subject to change without notice. Wild Lights is an outdoor event; there will be no access to animal habitats.
Frosty Pints & Twinkling Lights
Polar Beers, presented by KeyBank, is the Detroit Zoo’s exclusive 21+ winter event. Don your best ugly sweater, drink local craft brews within our dazzling Wild Lights trail and take in the kind of vibe no bar can match. Whether you’re looking for a spectacular date night or a festive gathering with friends, this is the perfect metro Detroit event for you.
Grab your tickets before they’re gone!
What to expect
- A stellar selection of seasonal craft brews, speciality drinks, mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
- Full access to the Detroit Zoo’s enchanting Wild Lights trail
- Holiday-themed photo ops, installations and twinkling backdrops
- Entry to Camouflage art exhibit celebrating the artistry of concealment
- Cozy fire pits, warming stations and classic holiday tunes to set the mood
- A complimentary welcome drink, courtesy of our friends at Griffin Claw Brewing
- Zookeeper Chats
The Polar Beers pathway is limited to the front half of the Zoo. Animal habitats in the back of the Zoo will not be open. While some animal habitats will be open for this event, animals may choose to be out of sight. We appreciate your understanding and support of our goal to provide the best possible care for the animals who call the Detroit Zoo home.