John Ball Zoo Mom Tips

Our experts give you things you need to know for your visit in our John Ball Zoo Mom Tips!

Parking – When you come up the long drive to the entrance, don’t turn too early. We pulled in the first time we saw the “John Ball Zoo” signs, but this is more of an overflow lot. Wait (even when you think you should turn) because there’s a second lot that is MUCH closer.
Bathrooms – There are bathrooms in the middle part of the zoo near the cafe and the penguin building. These are the best ones.
Strollers – There is a lot of walking at this zoo, but also a lot of stairs. I would recommend a stroller if you have toddlers, but probably a carry-on if you have infants.
Be ready to walk – This zoo has a lot of space to walk around, and it’s a bit hilly.
Check the daily feeding schedule – The keepers at this zoo are very friendly and engaging. We walked in right when they were feeding the pelicans, and it was fun to watch. Definitely check out the schedule to see when they’re feeding other animals. You can book your pelican feeding here.
Food – The food is slightly pricey, but well worth it. They offer kids meals for $7.99. The meals include an entree, a pack of animal crackers, applesauce, and a drink. Our oldest daughter got chicken nuggets – and they were high quality, not like breaded fast food. Our other daughters got the macaroni and cheese. It was baked, not out of a box which you typically find at zoos trying to save on cheap meals.

Thank you for reading our John Ball Zoo Mom Tips. Click here to read a full review of the zoo’s exhibits.