Animal Encounters: 5 Metro Detroit Locations for Wildlife Experiences

July 19, 2023
Parrot rests on a man's arm

Photo courtesy of The Creature Conservancy

The science of animals is absolutely fascinating and having the opportunity to see them up close is an incredible experience. Whether you like animals that fly or those that live underwater, ones that are taller than a house or are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, there are some great places right here in Metro Detroit to have encounters with all different kinds of animals. From farms to zoos to independent habitats, these locations are the best for all kinds of wildlife experiences. 

Maybury Farm

50165 8 Mile Road, Northville

Located in Northville, Maybury Farm is definitely a fan favorite when it comes to farms. Their mission is to connect the community to animals and agriculture. As a working farm, they have dozens of animals to learn about and interact with such as horses, cows, pigs, chickens, and goats. Maybury Farm also offers Story Time, Wagon Rides, and other special events throughout the season.

baby goats at Maybury Farm
Photo courtesy of Maybury Farm

The Creature Conservancy

4940 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor

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The Creature Conservancy aims to promote animal conservation through education. They offer a wide variety of programming from open hours to camps for kids, as well as options for private events. They are home to more than 75 different species of animals from reptiles to mammals. Each month they also feature different animals for educational purposes. 

Small gator displayed at The Creature Conservancy
Exotic bird rests on man's arm at The Creature Conservancy
Photos courtesy of The Creature Conservancy

The Reptarium

45559 Van Dyke Avenue, Utica

The Reptarium is Metro Detroit’s destination for all things reptilian. They are open to the public on weekends and feature a variety of reptiles from snakes to frogs, tortoises to alligators. The Reptarium also hosts private events and is willing to travel up to 20 miles to your personal event with their reptiles. 

Snake at The Reptarium
Photo courtesy of The Reptarium

Howell Nature Center

1005 Triangle Lake Road, Howell

The Howell Nature Center has a mission to teach people to be faithful caretakers of one another and the world around us. Spanning 230 acres, they have spent the last 60 years helping animals through wildlife rehabilitation and educating visitors on the importance of their work. Alongside wildlife education, they also teach about nature and adventure. The Howell Nature Center is home to a variety of species of animals from birds to mammals, most of which are native to the area and are being helped through their rehabilitation programs. 

Sea Life Michigan Aquarium

4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills

Sea Life Michigan Aquarium is the state’s largest aquarium with over 250 species and 2,000 creatures. This is the destination for those who love all things that live in the water. When visiting, you’ll be able to see sharks, rays, and green sea turtles, just to name a few. Exhibits include freshwater lakes, coral reef, a shipwreck, an interactive touch pool, and a 360-degree underwater ocean tunnel.

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