We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

John Ball Zoo

1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, MI 49501
616.336.4301
Website
Update attraction details
Ranked #17 of 34 attractions in Grand Rapids
Type: Zoos
22 visitor photos
Write a Review

137 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    42
    48
    38
    7
    2
Date Rating
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
3 attraction reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 17 May 2013 NEW

Any time spent walking the zoo with the family is always great. Not too big,not too small. Excellent family event.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Tawas City, Michigan
Reviewer
3 reviews 3 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 14 May 2013

My family and I went to the zoo around mid-afternoon and the animals were so active! Usually I find zoo animals to be sleeping when I visit, but these animals were so exciting! We even got to ride a camel! Loved this zoo, and want to visit again.

Was this review helpful? Yes
Hudsonville, Michigan
Top Contributor
59 reviews 59 reviews
30 attraction reviews
Reviews in 21 cities Reviews in 21 cities
8 helpful votes 8 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 7 May 2013

I really like the set up of the Zoo. I've been going here since I was a kid and the memories are as great then as they are now. Great place to set up a company event and the new tolley is fun for everyone.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 15 more reviews by Teessm for Grand Rapids
Indianapolis, Indiana
Senior Contributor
27 reviews 27 reviews
11 attraction reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
20 helpful votes 20 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 3 May 2013 via mobile

For $5 admission, you can't beat it. There were maybe a handful of exhibits not open. No big animals - lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, bears. But the bald eagle exhibit is the best I've seen at any zoo. Also the golden eagles. It is a smaller zoo but definitely worth admission price. Our zoo at home (Indiana) is $14 admission.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
San Jose, Costa Rica
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 April 2013

When we went there were not may things open, so it was very quick. The things that were open seemed small for the animals. The reptile/ aquarium stuff seemed dirty and kind of sad. I hope this isn't how it really is all the time? Also, it was during the boo zoo and there were a lot of kids and... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by ThoRocco for Grand Rapids
Whitehall, Michigan
Contributor
11 reviews 11 reviews
9 attraction reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 14 April 2013

Too small but probably a good size for younger children. My granddaughter always has fun there but I end up feeling sorry for the poor critters. She really likes the camel rides (costs extra) Over priced for what you get I think. Kids will have fun. Don't take my average rating as a bad thing. I just don't think zoos... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Muskegon, Michigan
Senior Contributor
34 reviews 34 reviews
3 attraction reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
11 helpful votes 11 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 11 April 2013

I have been a customer at the Great John Ball Zoo of Grand Rapids, Michigan for several years now. Two adjectives that accurately described this zoo are Totally Awesome and So Exciting You know you kind of feel like "You are in Disney Land" ! This zoo is as Fine as any Chicago or New York zoo. They offer a... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by LINDA P for Grand Rapids
Allegan, Michigan
Contributor
12 reviews 12 reviews
4 attraction reviews
Reviews in 8 cities Reviews in 8 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 10 April 2013

They have many new exhibits. I was pleased to see how the enclosures for some of the animals have been improved. I was hesitant to go as my last experience left me feeling sorry for the animals. The had very restricted habitats and little to do. That has improved. You can get a good walk in there while enjoying the... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Traverse City, Michigan
2 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
1 of 5 stars Reviewed 9 April 2013

Took our kids to the zoo. Terrible experience. Several exhibits closed or down for "construction". Grounds not well kept. We entered the the chimpanzee exhibit and there was poop smeared all over the window. We told the staff. They were rude and said it happens. It this point I would not recommend a visit to this zoo. Waste of time... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Senior Contributor
22 reviews 22 reviews
6 attraction reviews
Reviews in 14 cities Reviews in 14 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 April 2013

Stopped by the zoo on a beautiful afternoon. It seems every other family in the city had the same idea, as we had to park in overflow parking. Not all the animals were out, as it was still chilly, but we still had fun. I am always amazed at what a wonderful zoo there is in such a small market.... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by jasonst1 for Grand Rapids

Travellers who viewed John Ball Zoo also viewed

 
Grand Rapids, Kent County
Grand Rapids, Kent County
 

Been to John Ball Zoo? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage John Ball Zoo, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing