The zoo was developed in part through labor provided by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression.
It is home to the first black rhino calf born in Michigan, delivered in 2019.
The park was originally a gift of land to the city by James W. Potter in 1913.
The zoo operates as a partnership between the Potter Park Zoological Society and Ingham County.
It participates in the Species Survival Plan for several endangered species, including the Pallas’s cat and the red panda.
Potter Park Zoo is the oldest public zoo in Michigan, established in 1915 and spanning 20 acres along the Red Cedar River. It focuses on conservation and education, housing over 160 species, including endangered animals like black rhinos and Amur tigers. The facility is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. As a municipal-run entity, it functions as a local community hub rather than a large-scale commercial attraction. The grounds feature a mix of historic Depression-era architecture and modern animal habitats. It is located within the larger Potter Park, which provides additional recreational space and river access.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the black rhino exhibit provides the most unobstructed views.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo features hilly terrain and extensive paths.
Check the zoo's online calendar for animal feeding demonstrations, which occur daily but vary by species.
Bring a refillable water bottle, as the park features several hydration stations throughout the zoo.
Do not arrive during severe weather events, as outdoor habitats may be closed and many animals will be shifted to indoor, non-viewable quarters.
Open year-round, but outdoor animal access is limited during winter months; specific buildings may have reduced capacity during extreme cold.
Do not tap on glass enclosures or feed the animals, as this causes distress and disrupts specialized diets.
