Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek is back open for the 2026 season.
And the zoo wants your help in naming a baby sloth.
After 11 years, sloths Chip and Thea welcomed their first cub in March.
Names selected by staff are Chia, Coco and Rio. Find out more about sloths and vote for your favorite name at binderparkzoo.org/sloth-naming.
Giraffe feeding experience is $2
One of the zoo’s signature experiences is the opportunity to meet and hand-feed giraffes at the Twiga Overlook in Wild Africa. Guests can purchase one lettuce snack for $2 or five snacks for $9. The overlook closes 30 minutes before the zoo closes.
The giraffe feeding experience allows visitors to interact with the animals up close,
ZOO RIDES
The Wilderness Tram is a free attraction that takes visitors from the International Depot to Wild Africa. The tram offers an immersive experience as guests travel through Zuri National Park, featuring views of the savanna and African wildlife, according to the announcement.
The Z.O. & O. Railroad is another ride at the zoo. This miniature locomotive takes guests on a 1.5-mile scenic loop. The train, a vintage 1963 CP Huntington model, operates most days but may close due to weather or maintenance. Tickets for the train ride are $3.50 per guest.
Unique gift shops at the zoo
Zoo visitors can explore two gift shops. The Safari Gift Shop, at the zoo exit, sells a range of unique and affordable gifts and apparel. Zawadi Traders, situated in Wild Africa, offers a selection of themed merchandise related to the African exhibits.
Binder Park Zoo also features the Binda Conservation Carousel, a custom-made wooden carousel with 36 hand-carved animal figures. To ride on the carousel costs $3.50 per guest and provides a nostalgic experience for all ages.
Dining options available
Several dining options are available at the zoo. Beulah’s Restaurant offers grab-and-go items and is open daily in the East Zoo. Kalahari Kitchen provides meal, snack and drink options with a view of the savanna exhibit. Brass Ring Concession, inside the carousel building, features snacks, ice cream and an ICEE station.
Admission closes 30 minutes before the zoo closes.
Military personnel with ID get 50% off, and AAA members get a 10% discount with ID.
For more information, visit binderparkzoo.org/visit/ or call 269-979-1351.
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This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Binder Park Zoo reopens, help name its new baby sloth
Reporting by Janis Reeser, Battle Creek Enquirer / Battle Creek Enquirer
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