ZooMichigan, US

Children's Zoo at Celebration Square

The Children's Zoo at Celebration Square is a beloved Michigan destination for family-friendly wildlife encounters.

About

The Children's Zoo at Celebration Square is a beloved Michigan destination for family-friendly wildlife encounters. This AZA-accredited zoo in Saginaw offers an engaging and educational experience across its 10 acres, making it a perfect outing for visitors of all ages. Explore thoughtfully designed habitats where you can come face-to-face with a diverse collection of animals, including captivating African penguins, playful North American river otters, and majestic Mexican grey wolves. Beyond the animal exhibits, the zoo provides a host of interactive attractions, fostering a sense of wonder and learning. Visitors can embark on an adventure aboard the charming Iberschoff Special miniature train, take a spin on the region's only hand-carved carousel, or become a paleontologist for the day at the Fossil Find, where children can dig for dinosaur bones. The Wetland Experience offers a unique perspective on Michigan's native aquatic life with an underwater viewing area and a crawl-through "beaver dam." With its blend of animal exhibits, hands-on activities, and beautiful volunteer-tended gardens, the Children's Zoo at Celebration Square ensures a memorable and inspiring day out. The zoo's commitment to conservation and education is evident through its participation in Species Survival Plans for animals like the African penguins, North American river otters, and cotton-top tamarins. Regular keeper talks, demonstrations, and animal feedings offer deeper insights into the lives of the zoo's residents, while the overall atmosphere is designed to inspire appreciation and respect for animals and nature. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.

The Children's Zoo at Celebration Square boasts a rich history, initially established in 1929 by Commissioner George Phoenix of the Parks and Cemeteries Department on the corner of Ezra Rust Park. By the spring of 1930, its initial collection included a beaver, coyote, fox, bears, raccoons, timber wolves, owls, hawks, and deer. Over the decades, the zoo expanded and evolved, with significant milestones including the introduction of the Iberschoff Special miniature train in 1967 and the opening of the hand-carved carousel and Fossil Find in 1998. In 1996, the Saginaw Zoological Society assumed management from the city, ushering in further developments like the Wetland Experience in 2006. The zoo has been an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since at least 2009, a testament to its commitment to high standards of animal care and conservation.

What to do here

Interact with animals during keeper talks and feeding demonstrations, ride the miniature train and carousel, dig for "dinosaur bones" at the Fossil Find, explore Michigan's native aquatic life at the Wetland Experience, and let kids burn energy at the Rainforest Run Playground. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped paths and gardens, which are often tended by volunteers.

Seasonal info

The zoo's full season runs from May to September. Cooler weather often encourages animals to be more active. Special events like "Zoo Boo" in October offer unique seasonal experiences.

Accessibility

The majority of pathways throughout the zoo are paved, ensuring easy navigation for strollers and wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis with a refundable deposit, and electronic convenience vehicles (Amigos) can be rented for a small fee. Wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms are also provided.

Don't miss

African Penguin exhibit

energetic North American River Otters

Australian Walkabout featuring Eastern Grey Kangaroos

majestic Mexican Grey Wolves

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

North American River Otter

Bald Eagle

Scarlet Macaw

American Alligator

Cow

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Visiting right after opening often means cooler temperatures, more active animals, and fewer crowds.

Check the weather

Animals tend to be more lively on cooler or overcast days, so plan your visit accordingly.

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo covers 10 acres, so you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

Consider packing a picnic

The zoo allows outside food, providing a cost-effective dining option, and offers several picnic areas.

Plan for rides with kids

If visiting with children who love rides, consider purchasing a day pass wristband for unlimited access to the train and carousel.

Utilize handwashing stations

Plenty of handwashing stations are available throughout the zoo, which is particularly useful after interacting near animal habitats or playing in the Fossil Find.

Frequently asked questions

: The Children's Zoo at Celebration Square is home to a diverse array of popular animals, including captivating African penguins, playful North American river otters, agile eastern grey kangaroos, and majestic Mexican grey wolves. Visitors can also spot Hoffmann's two-toed sloths, cotton-top tamarins, and various birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
: Yes, visitors to the Children's Zoo at Celebration Square can enjoy several rides and interactive attractions. These include the Iberschoff Special miniature train ride, a charming hand-carved carousel, and the Fossil Find, where children can dig for dinosaur bones. The Wetland Experience also offers an immersive look at Michigan's native ecosystems.
: Yes, the Children's Zoo at Celebration Square is designed to be accessible. Most of the zoo's pathways are paved, facilitating easy navigation for strollers and wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are available for rent with a refundable deposit, and electronic convenience vehicles (Amigos) can also be rented for convenience.