Starting the beginning of our 97th season, Washington Park Zoo is Announcing the opening of its gates for its 2026 season.
Filled with exciting opportunities for education and exploration for visitors of all ages, the zoo is opening on Saturday, March 28th, 2026 at 10am. The zoo will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including holidays, with extended summer weekend hours running from Memorial Day until Labor Day weekend.
An opening celebration will be held at 10:00 A.M. CST in the Bear Fountain Plaza and will include opening remarks from Mayor Angie Nelson-Deuitch. The Michigan City Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan City Zoological Society will also be joining in the festivities. The Zoological Society will have a station to welcome visitors, provide guest support on memberships, and serve coffee while supplies last. The society will also be accepting donations and hosting a drawing to win an Annual Zoo Membership Pass!
Admission tickets are available for purchase at the booth on the day of your visit, so there is no need for advance planning. For more information about what the Washington Park Zoo has to offer, please visit our website at https://www.washingtonparkzoo.com or connect with us on Facebook to stay updated on events, promotions, and more.
The Washington Park Zoo spans an impressive 9 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland, home to an array of animal exhibits and vibrant gardens. Over the years, the zoo has transformed significantly, with recent renovations enhancing the Big Cat complex and the historic Engineers Castle. These updates not only improve the visitor experience but also prioritize the well-being of the animals in our care. Additionally, further improvements are planned for the future to continue promoting a safe and enriching environment for our animals and guests alike.
Recognized as a prime destination for both locals and tourists, the Washington Park Zoo is home to more than 330 individual animals representing 90 different species from across the globe. Our commitment to wildlife rescue and conservation is underscored with our accreditation from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). The zoo actively participates in Species’ Survival Plans, collaborating with zoos and organizations worldwide to contribute to conservation efforts that have a global impact.
The zoo features a gift shop with a large array of items, as well as concession stands where hungry guests can enjoy a delicious selection of food and beverages. Offerings include hot dogs, soft pretzels, nachos, popcorn, ice cream, chips, and various drinks, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.
Tickets for admission can be purchased at the admission booth on the day of your visit, eliminating the need for advance planning. For those looking to learn more about what the Washington Park Zoo has to offer, please visit our website at https://www.washingtonparkzoo.com or connect with us on Facebook to stay updated on events, promotions, and more. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the zoo’s information line at (219)873-1510.
Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating another season of wildlife education, conservation efforts, and unforgettable experiences! We can’t wait to see you there!
Address: Washington Park Zoo, 115 Lakeshore Drive, Michigan City, Indiana 46360.
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Susie Young Baxter, CEO, has published PanoramaNOW Magazine for 31 years. Her hobbies are Camping, Boating, Hiking, Nature, Gardening and Outdoor Activities. She is an Artist, Graphic Designer, an Avid Seamstress, Dabbles in Homemade Crafts and Landscaping. Since her Father was a Health Teacher, she also likes homeopathic Health Solutions. Since blogging started over 10 years ago, PanoramaNow has been added to Newsbreak – a national news affiliate.
