Get Ready to Feed Giraffes: John Ball Zoo Announces Epic New Exhibit

If you've ever been to the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, you know how nice a place it is, and we're lucky to have it right here in our backyard.

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The zoo has so many awesome animals to check out including lions, tigers, chimpanzees, bears, and various primates.

The John Ball Zoo announced in 2021 that it plans to open an aquarium in Walker, with an estimated completion time of 5-10 years.

As if that wasn't enough, the John Ball Zoo just made another huge announcement.

After receiving a $15 million donation, the zoo announced it's planning on bringing in some very tall guests for an all new exhibit.

The John Ball Zoo says that it's planning on bringing giraffes that will be part of a state-of-the-art exhibit, which will feature a 'winding forested path' and include a panoramic view of the simulated African savanna.

When complete, this exhibit will also be the largest in the park and provide visitors with the chance to feed giraffes, ostriches, and other animals.

I've had the chance to feed a giraffe before, and it was so fun; they'll definitely be getting my money to do that again.

Read More: Giant Pollinators Take Over John Ball Zoo This Summer

Giraffes Are Coming To The John Ball Zoo

John Ball Zoo CEO Peter D’Arienzo released a statement regarding the new giraffe exhibit, saying:

“We are incredibly honored by this generous gift from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation, which has been a longtime champion of conservation, education and community enrichment in West Michigan, Thank you to the Foundation for its continued support of our commitment to save wildlife and wild places. This expansion will be a powerful symbol of conservation in action, and it will connect children and families with one of our most iconic species in unforgettable ways.”

I'm so excited for 2028 to get here so I can see these beautiful animals up close and feed them some tasty lettuce.