Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek now open for season

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, anticipation is mounting for the much-awaited Opening Day at Binder Park Zoo, kicked off on May 1st. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Battle Creek, Binder Park Zoo has become a beacon for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers alike. With a mission to connect, inspire, conserve—connect people with nature, inspire them to conserve, and a vision of turning apathy into empathy and compassion into action—Binder Park Zoo has been fostering a deeper connection between humans and the natural world. Binder Park Zoo offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore, learn, and engage with wildlife in their natural habitats.

One of the highlights of this season’s opening is the unveiling of the much-anticipated permanent home and habitat for the beloved goats. These charming animals, adored by visitors of all ages, will now have a new home in the east zoo where they can roam, graze, and delight guests with their playful antics. The new exhibit promises to offer a closer look at the lives of these fascinating animals while providing enriching experiences for guests. Returning this season, guests will have the opportunity to feed the goats, but will also be able to go inside the goat yard to brush the goats if they choose.

Visitors can set their sights higher this season as the Charles & Lynn Zhang SkyLark Ridge ropes course and zipline opens for its second season. Guests can enjoy an adrenaline-fueled journey among the treetops with this exhilarating ropes course and zipline experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of natural beauty, thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike are invited to soar to new heights and unleash their inner daredevil in an unforgettable aerial adventure. SkyLark Ridge spans 15,000 total square feet rising to 36’ at its highest point for spectacular views of zoo grounds. A separate structure called “Little Larks” has similar components but scaled for younger guests under 48” tall to have the same exciting experience.  Each participant is fitted with a five-point full body safety harness and locked into a secured single redundant sling line the entire time they are on either attraction. An overhead tracking system allows guests the choice to walk or climb elements and obstacles like rope ladders, suspended bridges, cargo nets and more at their own pace on whatever level they choose to explore. SkyLark Ridge is an exhilarating adventure that combines family, fitness and fun inside the beautiful park-like setting of the zoo. For additional information, visit: https://binderparkzoo.org/skylark-ridge.

“We are incredibly excited to open for the season once again and welcome guests to Binder Park zoo for our 47th season,” said Diane Thompson, president & CEO at Binder Park Zoo. “With new exhibits, interactive experiences, and a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable moments for our guests while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.”

Visitors can embark on an unforgettable summer journey filled with exploration, discovery, and endless fun. Summer Day Camps, Group Overnights, Family Overnights, and the anticipated Zoo Teen program returns this summer. From immersive wildlife experiences to thrilling overnight adventures, Binder Park Zoo invites families, groups, and teens to join us for a summer like no other.

Binder Park Zoo is now open to the public with daily hours Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $17.75 for adults, $16.75 for seniors 65+ and $14.75 for children ages 2-10. Children under age 2 are admitted free of charge. Plan a zoo visit, become a member or register for zoo programs online www.binderparkzoo.org.