The Detroit Zoo has officially opened its brand-new Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails, and it is quickly becoming one of the most exciting family attractions in Metro Detroit.
This massive new 7-acre expansion transforms part of the zoo into an interactive adventure filled with animal encounters, immersive play spaces, climbing structures, sensory experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities for kids. After getting the chance to preview the new area before opening weekend, we can confidently say families are going to want to plan extra time for this during their next zoo visit!
Whether you’re a Detroit Zoo member or planning a summer family outing, here’s everything to know about the new Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails at the Detroit Zoo.
What Is the Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails?
The Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails is a brand-new immersive expansion at the Detroit Zoo designed to help guests connect with animals and nature through exploration, movement, and interactive experiences. Unlike traditional zoo exhibits, this area encourages children to climb, play, touch, discover, and engage throughout the trails.
The experience combines animal habitats with nature-inspired play areas, educational experiences, sensory-friendly spaces, and interactive attractions designed for all ages.
Interactive Experiences at Discovery Trails
One thing that makes this area feel completely different from the rest of the zoo is how interactive everything is.
Some of the most popular features include:
- Elevated canopy walkways and bridges
- Large climbing structures and nature-inspired play areas
- Sensory-focused exploration spaces
- Interactive educational experiences
- Stingray touch experiences
- Animal encounter areas
- Imaginative farmers market-style play spaces
- Digital interactive elements throughout the trails
The area is designed to keep kids actively engaged rather than simply walking exhibit to exhibit.
What Animals Are at the Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails?
Families will find several animal encounters and habitats throughout the new expansion, including:
- Stingrays
- Goats
- Alpacas
- Prairie dogs
- Chickens
- Miniature donkeys
- Bamboo sharks
The burrowing owls and bush dogs were not yet open during our preview visit but are expected to arrive soon! Stay tuned for that!
The Goat Yard Might Be Every Kid’s Favorite Part
One area we already know is going to be a huge hit with younger kids is the interactive Goat Yard inside Discovery Trails.
Unlike a traditional petting zoo setup, this space feels much more open and immersive. Guests can walk directly through portions of the habitat while goats roam around the area, creating a fun up-close experience that feels interactive from the moment you enter.
Kids can gently brush the goats, watch them climb throughout the habitat, and get surprisingly close to the animals in a way that feels engaging without being overwhelming.
The area also includes nearby seating and shaded spots, making it a great place for families to slow down for a few minutes while kids explore. During our preview visit, this was easily one of the busiest areas with families and younger children.
If your kids typically love petting farms or hands-on animal encounters, definitely expect to spend extra time here.
Stingray Cove at Discovery Trails
One of the biggest highlights inside the new Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails is Stingray Cove, an immersive aquatic experience where families can get up close with stingrays and bamboo sharks.
Guests can gently touch and interact with the stingrays under the supervision of trained animal care staff, making it one of the most hands-on experiences at the Detroit Zoo. The habitat also features bamboo sharks swimming throughout the exhibit, which was a huge hit with kids during our preview visit.
Admission to Stingray Cove requires a separate ticket purchase in addition to Detroit Zoo admission or membership. Guests can also purchase feeding experiences for an additional fee!
Wild Explorer VR Experience
One of the newest attractions inside Discovery Trails is the Wild Explorer VR Experience.
This immersive virtual reality attraction uses motion seating, VR headsets, and audio effects to take guests on a wildlife-themed adventure experience. The VR attraction is located within the Discovery Trails area and offers a unique add-on activity to relax a little during your visit! The VR experience requires an additional fee separate from zoo admission.
ADA Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features
The Detroit Zoo clearly designed this expansion with accessibility and family comfort in mind.
Features include:
- ADA-accessible walkways throughout most of the trails
- Wide paved pathways for strollers and wheelchairs
- Accessible ramps integrated into elevated areas
- Sensory-friendly spaces
- Family restrooms
- Private lactation spaces
- Universal changing tables and accessible facilities
These additions make the area especially helpful for families visiting with young children, mobility devices, or sensory sensitivities!
Is Discovery Trails Included with Detroit Zoo Admission?
Yes!
Access to the Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails is:
- Free for Detroit Zoo members
- Included with regular Detroit Zoo admission for non-members
Some premium experiences, including Stingray Cove feedings and the Wild Explorer VR Experience, require an additional fee.
Families can purchase tickets, explore memberships, and learn more about current attractions directly through the Detroit Zoo official website.
Looking for more ways to keep kids busy this summer? Be sure to also check out our guides to the best splash pads and spray parks in Metro Detroit and if Summer is sneaking up on you, here is our 2026 Metro Detroit Summer Camp Guide!
Brittany is a proud mom to two fun loving kiddos, Grayson and Audrey. With a passion for health and fitness, she’s a certified personal trainer and nutritionist who enjoys helping others lead active, enjoyable lives. When she’s not coaching clients, you can find Brittany, her husband, and her kids exploring Michigan’s vibrant scene of indoor play centers, parks, eateries, and events. Whether they’re discovering new hiking trails, celebrating local restaurant openings, or spending the afternoon at the cider mill, they’re always on the lookout for their next adventure. Brittany is passionate about sharing her family’s experiences to help other parents create lasting memories in Metro Detroit. You can follow along with her and her crew here @brittmilesxo.