Advance reservations are necessary by calling (248) 541-5717, ext. 3750.  The cost, which includes Zoo admission and parking, is $30 for adults (ages 15 and older) and $25 for children (ages 14 and younger).  The cost for Detroit Zoological Society members is $25 for adults and $20 for children.  Tickets must be purchased for all children regardless of age as seating is limited.

The jolly old elf himself will visit with guests, and every good little girl and boy will receive a holiday gift.  The family event will also feature costumed characters, arts and crafts and holiday movies in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery Theater.  Photos with Santa will be available at an additional cost. 

After breakfast, visitors can work off their waffles with a stroll through the Zoo to see the animals frolic in the crisp December weather.  The Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, can often be spotted enjoying their outdoor hot tub in the winter months.  The tigers, wolverines, red pandas, takins, elk and bison also adapt well to colder temperatures and become more active.
 
The Detroit Zoological Society is a non-profit organization that operates the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo.  Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak.  The Detroit Zoo is open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through March (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April through Labor Day and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the day after Labor Day through October.  Admission is $11 for adults 15 to 61, $9 for senior citizens 62 and older, and $7 for children ages 2 to 14; children under 2 are free.  For more information, call (248) 541-5717 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.  The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round and provides educational programming with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. Admission is free.  For more information, call (313) 852-4056. 
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