Detroit Zoo
Detroit Zoo
8450 West 10 Mile Rd
Royal Oak
MI
48067
Telephone: (248) 541-5717
The Giraffe Encounter: (closed for the season)
Public feeding opportunities are available at the Detroit Zoo’s Giraffe Encounter, an elevated viewing platform overlooking the giraffe habitat, bringing guests to eye level with the Zoo’s tallest creatures. From late spring through early fall, 50 patrons per feeding are able to purchase a ticket for $5.00 from the Ambassador Booth at the main entrance of the Zoo, redeemable for a supervised opportunity to serve special giraffe food. Feeding opportunities are available subject to the giraffes’ appetites, the weather and special events. Feeding times may vary and no other food or giraffe-feeding opportunities are permitted. Check the "Detroit Zoo Today" section of the Zoo’s web site for daily feeding availability.
Giraffe Encounter and Feeding Platform FAQs.
Tauber Family Railroad:
(operates May through September, Weekends in October)
One-way ride only. Riders must disembark at the other train station and wait in line if they wish to reboard for a round-trip ride. Stations are located at the front of the Zoo near the Main Entrance and in the far northwest corner of the Zoo (Africa), past the Rhino Exhibit. Folding wheelchairs, wagons, and folding strollers can be accommodated. Rented Zoo strollers and wagons cannot be taken on the train.
Animal Feedings/Demonstrations:
In order to encourage natural behavior, feeding and socialization activities occur throughout the day.
Animal Viewing:
Natural behaviors are encouraged in Zoo animals - if animals are resting, eating, or socializing away from public view at the time of your tour, we encourage you to enjoy a return visit.
Facility Availability:
Occasionally, a building or facility may be closed to the public for part or all of a day due to animal health needs, maintenance repairs, or special events. Sorry, refunds and rainchecks are not available. Schedule subject to change without notice.
Lost Children:
We advise the use of name tags for small children to facilitate their return to parents or guardians. Please have a designated spot in the Zoo to meet if you and your group are separated. Lost children are taken to the Park Safety Office at the west underpass near Rackham Fountain.
Smoking:
Smoking is permitted in designated areas only.
Convenience Rentals:
Single and double strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs are available for rent at the Main Train Station (near the front of the park) and at the Africa Train Station (in the far corner of the park when the train is operating). Rented items cannot be taken on the Tauber Family Railroad. Guests will receive a deposit refund upon return of the rental unit.
Guided Tours:
Available for students, scout troops and other groups, guided, walking tours on the topic of your choice are available September - April. Just ask your reservationist when you call (248) 541-5717, Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April - October (Wednesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, November-March) to make your group reservation. Tour reservations must be made at least two (2) weeks in advance.
May to August, it’s Animal Answer Days throughout the park. Our volunteer educators, Docents, will be stationed at major animal exhibits to answer questions. Educators: if you need ideas for your visit or classroom or to learn about other programs contact the Docent Office at (248) 541-5717 ext. 3801.
Picnic Areas:
The main picnic area is behind the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery. Three acres, 40 tables, no grills available or allowed. Tables are not reserved. Personal grills and alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the Zoo.* (*Alcoholic beverages are provided by the Catering Division for private events only and must be consumed in reserved area.) Open fires on the ground are not permitted. Smaller picnic areas are available throughout the park.
To reserve a picnic site for corporate picnics, family reunions, etc., please contact our Events Manager at (248) 541-5717, ext. 3305, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Refreshments:
Operated by Service Systems Associates.
There are several conveniently located throughout the park (locations open seasonally). Items that are generally available include hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, hot dogs, gardenburgers, french fries, pizza, potato chips, soft drinks, frozen beverages, ice cream and coffee.
Restrooms:
At the Main Entrance, north of Main Picnic Grove, The Safari Café, Arctic Food Court, south of Rackham Fountain, and near the Log Cabin Learning Center in the far southwest corner of the Zoo. Family restrooms and diaper-changing tables are available.
Safety Shelters:
Zoo staff will direct guests to secure areas. Shelters include all restrooms, the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery, Penguinarium, Rhino House, Lion House, Giraffe House, Barn, and Chimp House. When directed to the shelter, remain inside until zoo staff gives the "all clear."
First Aid:
Soap, water and band-aids are available at the Park Safety Office. Contact any zoo staff for assistance. Sorry, motorized transportation (besides the Miniature Railroad) is provided only for authentic medical emergencies requiring an ambulance. Persons with health concerns should consult their doctor before walking through this 125-acre facility, especially during very hot or very cold weather. The Detroit Zoological Society does not provide medical care or consultation.
Park Safety Services:
Guests are required to abide by all posted rules and regulations and to follow the direction of Park Safety Officers.
Picture Taking:
Personal picture taking is permitted as long as the photographer remains in non-restricted areas. Commercial, group, club, contest, business, or wedding photography requires a pre-approved Photography Contract. Contact the Communications Director at (248) 541-5717 x.3731. No tripods or monopods are allowed in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery.
Please!
• No feeding of animals.
• No bicycle riding, ball or frisbee playing, skate boarding, roller skating or in-line skating.
• No sneakers with wheels, e.g., Heelies, Rollies.
• No scooters, bicycles or tricycles.
• No balloons or inflatables.
• No pets on Zoo grounds.
• No distribution of printed literature of any kind in or at the Zoo.
• No radios or TVs.
• No beverage cup lids or drinking straws.
Thank you
COPYRIGHT © 2009 DETROIT ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
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