This summer will bring many exciting new features to John Ball Zoo.  The very first to debut will be the new GIFTS OF THE WILD gift shop that opens this Saturday.  The new shop is a free standing building that makes a bold statement at the zoo's reconfigured front entrance.  It's over four times larger than the former gift shop and therefore carries four times the merchandise.  The additional space allows for a wider variety of merchandise from better jewelry and home décor items to quite possibly the region's largest collection of stuffed animals!   The GIFTS OF THE WILD shop will anchor the south end of the entrance plaza.  Also new in the plaza will be a membership convenience center.  On June 1, the Zoo plans to begin the unveiling of the Idema Forest Realm, Funicular and the Bissell Tree.

"Opening for the interactive exhibits in the summer is always exciting." said Andy McIntyre, Acting Zoo Director.  "It's that hands-on experience that helps kids identify with animals and that is a critical step in establishing a deep respect for our natural world and wildlife."

Beginning this Saturday, admission to John Ball Zoo will be $8.50 for adults and $6.50 for children 3-13 years old.  Kids 2 and under are always free.  Current Zoo hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm.  On May 12, Zoo hours expand to 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sundays only May 12, 13, 19, 20.  Hours go to 9am to 6pm daily beginning on May 25.    For more information call (616)336-4300 or info@johnballzoosociety.org.