ZooIndiana, US

Washington Park Zoo

The Washington Park Zoo is a charming, compact zoo nestled within Washington Park in Michigan City, Indiana, offering an intimate connection with wildlife from around the globe.

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About

The Washington Park Zoo is a charming, compact zoo nestled within Washington Park in Michigan City, Indiana, offering an intimate connection with wildlife from around the globe. Covering 15 acres on a hilly sand dune, this zoo provides a unique experience where visitors can explore winding tree-lined paths and historical WPA-era architecture while encountering over 220 animals from 90 species. It’s more than just a zoo; it also serves as a wildlife sanctuary for rescued and non-releasable animals, sharing a vital conservation message. Visitors can marvel at majestic Bengal tigers and grizzly bears, or observe playful Ringtail lemurs on the historic Monkey Island. The interactive "Farm" exhibit allows guests to get up close with miniature domestic horses, donkeys, pigs, and goats, some of whom can be fed directly. Another highlight is the upcoming state-of-the-art "Wings of Wonder Aviary" (re-opening July 2026), promising an immersive, temperature-controlled environment where parakeets, cockatiels, and macaws fly freely, offering unique bird-feeding opportunities. The zoo's setting, featuring natural exhibits and botanical plantings, enhances the feeling of discovery, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts seeking memorable encounters. Beyond the animal exhibits, the zoo grounds feature unique historical structures like the Art Deco-style Observation Tower, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area. Its blend of wildlife, historical significance, and natural beauty creates a rewarding and educational outing for all ages. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

The Washington Park Zoo boasts a unique origin story, beginning in 1925 when a retired animal trainer moved his pet brown bear, "Jake," to the Washington Park lakefront to attract more visitors. The public's immediate positive response, coupled with additional animals brought by the local fire department (which often sheltered exotic pets), led to the formal planning of a zoological garden. In 1928, the first official Zoo Board was appointed, and the zoo moved to its current location on the sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan. During the Great Depression, the zoo's development was significantly shaped by federal New Deal programs. It is believed to be the only zoo in Indiana entirely designed and landscaped by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and its predecessor agencies, FERA and CWA. This period saw the creation of landmark structures such as Monkey Island (1934) and the iconic Observation Tower and Castle building (1937), with eleven buildings now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over the decades, the zoo has continued to modernize, with significant upgrades in the 2000s including new entrances, gift shops, and exhibits like the North American Carnivore display.

What to do here

Enjoy engaging animal encounters, feed the farm animals and aviary birds, take a ride on the Safari Train (seasonal), and climb the Observation Tower for scenic vistas.

Seasonal info

The zoo operates with varying hours across Spring, Summer, and Fall, typically closing for the winter except for special events or specific weekends. Special events like "Boo at the Zoo" in October are popular. The Wings of Wonder Aviary is currently closed for construction but is expected to reopen in July 2026 as an all-season, temperature-controlled exhibit.

Accessibility

The Washington Park Zoo is largely wheelchair accessible, with ramp access to most areas. However, please note that the zoo is built on a sand dune, resulting in some hilly terrain and stairs in certain sections. The historic Observation Tower is not wheelchair accessible. Push wheelchairs are available for use at no charge with a photo ID.

Don't miss

Grizzly Bears & Bengal Tigers

These impressive carnivores are major attractions, housed in naturalistic settings.

Monkey Island

Home to playful Ringtail lemurs, this historic exhibit provides endless entertainment.

The Farm

An interactive area where guests can feed miniature domestic animals like goats, donkeys, and horses.

Wings of Wonder Aviary

(Re-opening July 2026) Experience a walk-through aviary with free-flying parakeets, cockatiels, and macaws, with opportunities to feed them.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Tiger

Grizzly Bear

Indian Peafowl

Fennec Fox

North American River Otter

Goat

Cougar

Emu

Capybara

Snap map for this place

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

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable shoes

The zoo is built on a hilly sand dune, so be prepared for inclines and some stairs, though accessible paths are available.

Visit early or on weekdays

Animals are often more active in the morning, and weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more serene experience.

Check parking information

Parking is managed separately from the zoo and involves fees, especially during the summer season. Be aware of these costs, which can be significant, and consider carpooling if possible.

Download a digital map

The zoo has gone paperless and encourages guests to download or print a digital map from their website before visiting, as paper maps are no longer provided at the entrance.

Don't miss the Observation Tower

While it requires climbing stairs, the panoramic views of Lake Michigan from the top are a significant highlight.

Pack sunscreen and water

Especially during warmer months, protection from the sun and hydration are essential for a comfortable visit.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, the Washington Park Zoo is mostly wheelchair accessible, with ramps providing access to many areas. However, some parts of the zoo are located on hilly terrain and feature stairs, particularly the historic Observation Tower, which is not wheelchair accessible. Push wheelchairs are available for rent free of charge with a photo ID.
: Visitors can enjoy a diverse collection of animals, including majestic Bengal tigers, grizzly bears, and playful Ringtail lemurs on Monkey Island. Interactive exhibits like "The Farm" allow guests to feed miniature domestic animals such as goats, while the upcoming "Wings of Wonder Aviary" (re-opening July 2026) will feature free-flying parakeets and macaws. The Castle building houses smaller educational species like fennec foxes and corn snakes.
: The Washington Park Zoo offers a more intimate experience compared to larger zoos. Most visitors find that a thorough visit typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore all the exhibits and attractions comfortably.