PRESS ROOM

ROYAL OAK, Mich., 

You’ve heard of dancing with wolves – now Detroit Zoo visitors can dine with them.  Among three new Zoo Experiences offered to guests, the recently opened Cotton Family Wolf Wilderness and other favorite habitats transform into a private dining retreat as visitors support the Detroit Zoological Society’s (DZS) mission of Celebrating and Saving Wildlife.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to have a special experience with friends and loved ones that is different from a regular visit to the Zoo,” said Scott Carter, DZS chief life sciences officer.  “These experiences provide participants with uncommon access to the Detroit Zoo and staff as well as to information that will deepen their knowledge of the Zoo and the animals that live here.”

The three new Zoo Experiences include:

•    Breakfast with a Favorite Animal
Guests can feast on a continental breakfast at the Zoo – with the animal habitat of their choosing as a unique backdrop – and learn details of the animals’ daily lives from the people who take care of them.  The 90-minute experience is limited to five guests ages 5 and older and costs $500 per group.

•    Resident Reptiles
Reptile enthusiasts can enjoy a private, zookeeper-led tour of the Holden Reptile Conservation Center, home to 180 reptiles representing 70 species.  Participants learn about the Zoo’s turtles, snakes and lizards – and witness a python, water monitor or crocodile enjoying a hearty meal.  The 90-minute experience is limited to five guests ages 8 and older and costs $500 per group.

•    Photo Safari
Amateur shutterbugs are treated to a guided tour of the Zoo with an experienced photographer while learning tips and tricks for capturing perfect photos of the animals.  The 90-minute experience is limited to three guests ages 10 and older and costs $300 per group; one more guest may participate for an additional $100.

The new offerings are in addition to longtime-favorite Zoo Experiences, including Breakfast with the Butterflies, Mingle with the Macaronis and Breakfast with the Giraffes.  All experiences must be scheduled 14 days in advance and are subject to availability and price changes.  For more information about Zoo Experiences, visit our Zoo Experiences page.