2026 Pennsylvania Avenue Construction Updates
The City of Lansing has started a major reconstruction project on Pennsylvania Avenue. This work is expected to continue through mid-summer and includes infrastructure improvements between the river, Mount Hope Ave., and near Aurelius Road. This construction will temporarily change how visitors will access Potter Park Zoo. For more information, visit Potter Park Zoo's Pennsylvania Avenue Construction Updates.
Know Before You Go
Are dogs allowed at the zoo?
No, only service dogs are permitted.
Are there any free admission days?
Residents of Ingham County can visit the zoo for free on non-holiday Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon.
Where do I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased either online at Potter Park Zoo Ticket Sales or at the gate.
Is there a parking fee?
Parking is free in the winter (November - March). From April to October, there is a small fee for vehicles. $3 for Ingham County residents, $5 for non-residents.
Can I bring food and beverages with me?
Refillable water bottles are highly encouraged. Due to limited seating, it is recommended all picnic lunches be consumed in the park.
Is Potter Park Zoo Accessible?
Absolutely.
What accommodations does the zoo offer for guests with specific needs?
Wheelchairs, ECVs, wagons, and strollers are available for rental. Please call 517-342-2765 to reserve an electric cart and inquire about wheelchair availability.
Sensory-friendly bags are available for guests to check out, free of charge. Zoo staff have been trained to assist visitors with sensory sensitivities. A quiet room/nursing room is located at the zoo's Discovery Center and is available to any guests.
A braille map is on display at the entrance of the zoo.
What other activities are nearby?
- Abrams Planetarium: Catch a star show and rediscover the wonders of the universe.
- Crego Park: A 200-acre park offering quiet water sports like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking
- Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum: The Broad Art Museum connects people with art through experiences that inspire curiosity and inquiry. .
- Fenner Nature Center: Take a stroll on nature trails through woods, fields, and around ponds. Visit the visitor center with exhibits, a gift shop, and a natural history library.
- Impression 5 Science Center: Visitors of all ages will enjoy their hands-on exhibits and have fun playing while learning basic science principles.
- Lansing River Trail: A paved pathway over 20 miles long, most of which follows the Grand & Red Cedar Rivers.
- Lansing Shuffle: Grab a bite to eat and play shuffleboard at this unique location right on the Grand River.
- MSU Museum: Explore three floors of natural history exhibits, including dinosaur bones and elephant skeletons.
- MSU Horticulture Gardens: Discover a world of beauty in the form of plants. Visit the perennial or annual gardens throughout the year for gorgeous blooming flowers. Explore the MSU 4-H Children's Garden, designed especially for children, this garden features over 55 themed gardens, including the Pizza Garden, Peter Rabbit Herb Garden, Butterfly Garden, and ABC Garden.
