On Zoo Boo dates (Oct. 4-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26), the Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for daytime admission. Daytime tickets on these dates are available at the gate only at a discounted flat rate: $19 general admission, $16 youth/seniors.
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.
Oct. 4-5, 10-12, 17-19 & 24-26 | 4-9:30 p.m.
Zoo Boo Admission ranges from $18-$25
Get ready for “spook-tacular” fun at metro Detroit’s wildest Halloween event — perfect for all ages.
Your Family-Favorite Fall Tradition is Back
Bring your reusable bag, enjoy trick-or-treating at the Zoo and get ready for a full lineup of family-friendly entertainment, character meet-and-greets and seasonal fun at every turn.
As the sun sets, watch as the Zoo comes alive with glowing “fun-kins,” elaborate, illuminated décor and displays, costumed performers and nonstop fall festivities — all included with your ticket.
What to expect:
- Treat stations throughout the front half of the Zoo
- Illuminated displays that come alive at night
- Live strolling performers and interactive entertainment
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Halloween-themed face painting (available for purchase)
- Themed photo stops to capture the moment
- Character meet-and-greets and family-friendly Halloween vibes
- Seasonal market experience by Blake’s with fresh cider and donuts for purchase (20% of proceeds support conservation)
The Zoo Boo pathway is limited to the front half of the Zoo. Animal habitats in the back of the Zoo will not be open.
Please note the train will not be running for Zoo Boo.
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Space is limited, and prices vary subject to time and date. All tickets must be purchased in advance; walk-up tickets will not be sold at the gate. The best way to guarantee your Zoo Boo experience is to purchase tickets in advance online.
Buy Parking now to avoid long lines at the event. Parking vouchers are only valid for the date/time as shown on your admission ticket. Valid for Zoo Boo only.
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.