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SOUTH BEND — A popular area attraction will make its return next week.

The Potawatomi Zoo opens for the season on Friday, March 29. 

Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. During the summer, June 1 to August 31, the Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The season is scheduled to end November 24.

Regular admission is $14 for adults; $12 for children ages 3-14 and seniors 62+; and free for children 2 and under. Potawatomi Zoological Society members are admitted free of charge during regular hours and extended summer hours.

Two of the Zoo’s popular attractions, the Potawatomi Zoo Express Train, and Endangered Species Carousel, will be open during the 2024 season.

Once again, giraffe feeding will be one of the Zoo’s daily scheduled attractions. Giraffe feeding is either on the outdoor giraffe deck or, in inclement weather, inside the giraffe barn visitor center.

Visitors can purchase $3 attraction tickets good for the train or carousel or 2 large pieces of lettuce. Visitors can also purchase an attraction pass, which includes 15 punches for $35, a discounted rate from the single ticket price.

This year, the Zoo’s Education Department will have a full range of classes and camps in both the Learning Center and the AEP Foundation STEM Classroom. Classes are currently in session, and Zoo Camp begins in June. Details are listed on the Zoo’s website.

The Zoo’s new concessions facility, The Lodge, officially opens to the public at the start of the season. The Lodge’s menu will include burgers, pizzas, and salads, along with many other Zoo visitor favorites.

The Zoo will continue to host a series of events this year including Eat and Drink at the Zoo on June 8, Children’s Day on June 12, Brew at the Zoo on September 14, Zoo Boo on October 18-20, and the Gift of Lights, beginning on November 29. Event details can be found on the Zoo’s website.

For more information about new animals, Education programs, construction projects, special events, or to become a member, please see potawatomizoo.org, or check the Zoo’s social media pages for the most up-to-date details.