Battle Creek’s Binder Park Zoo Celebrating 50 years

As a kid going to the zoo was one of the most fun yet scary field trips of the year. There were tons of animals like giraffes, zebras, lions, etc. that I was eager to get a look at but there were some that I was afraid of. For example, the way that some zoos let certain birds just roam freely absolutely terrifies me. Also, I hated seeing animals be miserable in their enclosures rather than the wild.

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Nonetheless, zoos can be a time for educational fun and to enjoy the nature that surrounds us. Michigan is one of the many states that can say they have the privilege of enjoying multiple zoos within our state boundaries. There are over 10 zoos within Michigan but the 4 largest are in Grand Rapids, Detroit, Lansing, and Battle Creek.

Battle Creek is home to the only zoo in Southwest Michigan, but it is one of the most popular zoos in the state. Binder Park Zoo which is nestled into Southeast Battle Creek has been providing amazing fun, animal interactions, and nature with the people of Southwest Michigan for decades.

Binder Park Zoo Celebrates 50 Years Of Existence In Battle Creek

This year, Binder Park Zoo will be celebrating it's 50th anniversary as they have been serving the public since 1975. They will be opening for the season on May 1st this year and they have planned quite the season to pay homage to all of the work done, beaming smiles, and wonderful memories.

They have a several experiences and other events planned throughout the season to add some spice to their 50th year. They include but are not limited to the following list:

• Cheetah Chase 5K: On Saturday, June 21, runners will have the chance to traverse scenic zoo paths and “Wild Africa.”
• Wild Wednesdays in July: The zoo will stay open late until 8 p.m. every Wednesday in July and feature a lineup of live musical performances.
• Tour de Zoo: Returning for the first time since 2019, cyclists of all skill levels are invited to enjoy a wild ride through the zoo on Friday, Aug. 1.
• Corks & Kegs at the zoo: The zoo will host an evening of craft beverage tastings, food and live entertainment Saturday, Sept. 6.

You can sign up to become a zoo member when you visit or you can do so at any time online, you can also plan your visit to the zoo and learn about other events by visiting binderparkzoo.org. Starting on May 1st, they will be open 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Admission is $18.75 for adults (ages 11-64), $16.75 for seniors (65 and up) and $15.75 for children (ages 2-10). Children under 2 are free.