Michigan has some of the most fun places to experience the wild. We have a number of zoos and aquariums that you can head out to this summer. Children can get up close and personal with wildlife. June is also National Zoos and Aquariums Month, so now is the perfect time to celebrate! Check out a few of our family’s favorite ways to connect with the wild.
Binder Park Zoo
Binder Park Zoo is located in Battle Creek. When you enter their African Safari, all the countries of Africa are represented by their flags. This is a great day trip or even a fun area to stay and make a weekend out of it. The best part is, you can get up close and personal to feed the giraffes and really connect with the wild. This adventure is worth the drive.
Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo offers an array of activities and animals to explore. With the vast area the zoo covers, prepare for a lot of walking. My suggestion is to start early and to not choose too hot of a day. The zoo is broken up into different exhibits like the Arctic Ring of Life, the American Grasslands, and the Outback.
Oswald’s Bear Ranch
If you are super adventurous and want to take an extended trip, check out Oswald’s Bear Ranch. It is located in Newberry. Before you get your map out, this is in the Upper Peninsula. So, from the metro Detroit area you are looking at about a five-hour drive. This complex is the largest bear-only ranch in the United States. This is a wonderful ranch to explore and learn more about bears in their natural habitat.
Sea Life Michigan Aquarium
Sea Life is located in Auburn Hills. This is an underwater experience. With viewing areas in the aquarium, it is like you are swimming in the ocean. The aquarium also offers education and special events. They are open with limited capacity and tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Belle Isle Aquarium
Belle Isle Aquarium is one of our absolute favorites. Located on Belle Isle, admission to this beautiful aquarium is free. Fun fact: it is the oldest aquarium in the United States. This is definitely a true gem in the heart of Detroit. Put this one on your list for later this summer because we hear the aquarium will be reopening very soon after closing down during the pandemic. Follow their Facebook page here to be among the first to know when the aquarium will reopen!
