If you’re in search of the best Christmas lights near Detroit, look no further than the Detroit Zoo! The Detroit Zoo has long served as a fantastic attraction for Motor City residents of all ages. With countless animal exhibits, all sorts of educational programs, and plenty of friendly staff members, there’s so much to adore here. During the holiday season, though, our city’s beloved zoo transforms into a winter wonderland – and you’ll surely want to visit. We can’t imagine a better place to spend Christmas in Detroit.

The Detroit Zoo is located at 8450 W 10 Mile Rd. in Royal Oak.
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From late November through the New Year, visitors can participate in the zoo’s Wild Lights event. No matter your age, you’re sure to be charmed by this brilliant display.
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
On select weeknights and most weekends, zoo gates open to reveal a true wonderland of illumination. Prepare to be enchanted as you gaze at over five million gorgeous LED lights.
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
From glowing tunnels to sparkling animal-shaped structures, there’s so much to see here. You might just feel as if you’ve been transported to another world.
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
Of course, you’ll still have the chance to marvel at the zoo’s standard exhibits earlier in the day before Wild Lights begins.
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
For an additional fee, check out the 4D Theatre Package, which includes admission to a 4-D theatre showing of The Polar Express. Talk about a magical adventure for the family!
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
Sip on hot cocoa while you stroll through a enchanting forest of lighted trees. Can you imagine a better way to celebrate this heartwarming season?
Facebook/Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo never disappoints, but its Wild Lights event is simply spectacular. Once you set foot inside these glowing gates, you might never want to leave.
Facebook/Detroit Zoo

For more information about ticket costs and availability, visit the Detroit Zoo website. Have you visited this zoo-based event in years past? We’d love to see photos and hear about your memories in the comment section below! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the best Christmas light displays near Detroit.

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Christmas in Detroit

Katie Lawrence | October 20, 2022

What are the best drive-thru light shows in Detroit?

Walk-through displays are great, but drive-thru light shows in Detroit are where it's really at. One of our favorites is the Wayne County Lightfest, a dazzling spectacle with over 100,000 lights. Just 25 minutes away from the Motor City, this annual event is a favorite among Michiganders from all corners of the state, and after taking just one look at the 4-mile route lined with more than 50 animated displays, you'll understand why. Kids from one to 92 will find themselves overcome with holiday cheer at the Wayne County Lightfest. Don't miss it this year!

Where can I find the best Christmas light displays near Detroit?

If you're in search of the best Christmas light displays near Detroit to check out this holiday season, there are a great many to choose from. Perhaps the most spectacular of all is the Big, Bright Light Show, located in downtown Rochester. This mesmerizing display is a full-blown Christmas village in the heart of the city, with almost every storefront in the town square adorned with glittering lights from head to toe. This magical experience will make your holiday season the merriest and brightest one yet.

Can I ride the Polar Express near Detroit?

Did you know you can ride the Polar Express near Detroit? Experience Christmas magic when you board a train that leads straight from the Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso to the North Pole. Known as the "North Pole Express," the ride includes hot cocoa, tons of festive décor, and plenty of Michigan winter scenery to top it all off. Passengers also get to spend two hours at Ashley’s Country Christmas, a charming festival complete with carriage rides, festive food and drinks, and even visits with Santa.

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Detroit Zoo, 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067, USA