Washington Park Zoo

A small zoo on Lake Michigan's southern shore that also shelters rescued exotic animals.

115 Lakeshore Drive, Michigan City, IN 46360 · Michigan City, IN

About Washington Park Zoo

Founded in 1928 across the road from Lake Michigan's southern shoreline, this zoo covers about 15 acres of hills, tree-lined paths, and historic WPA-era structures. Beyond exhibits, it operates as a wildlife sanctuary that gives homes to exotic animals formerly kept as pets, rescued from bad conditions, or unable to survive in the wild, and uses them to promote conservation. It also runs education programs for all ages, including camps, outreach, and up-close animal encounters. The zoo is owned by the City of Michigan City and run by its parks department, with support from a volunteer nonprofit. Visitors should expect walking, since the grounds are hilly, and some buildings or exhibits may close temporarily.

#zoo
#wildlife sanctuary
#Lake Michigan
#historic WPA structures
#conservation

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What's around here?

The closest stops to Washington Park Zoo, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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