Spooky Spirits
Guests explore the front half of the zoo illuminated with pumpkin displays while sampling craft beers, wines, spirits, hard ciders, and canned cocktails. Entertainment includes live bands, DJ sets, zookeeper chats, free carousel rides, and a 4D theater screening of 'Panic House.' Visitors can also enter a multi-category costume contest or touch stingrays at Frankel Stingray Cove.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
General Admission: $55; members: $49.50, including admission and 10 3 oz. tastings. VIP: $95; members: $85.50, including early admission at 6 p.m., 14 3 oz. tastings, a commemorative gift, VIP Lounge access and food until 8:30 p.m. Designated Driver: $35; members: $31.50, including Zoo admission, unlimited soft drinks and unlimited non-alcoholic tastings. DD VIP: $75; members: $67.50, with DD ticket features, early admission at 6 p.m. and VIP Lounge access until 9:45 p.m. Members get 10% off. Food is available for purchase; tarot and aura readings and the Wild Explorer VR Experience cost extra. Parking is $8 per vehicle; Detroit Zoo members park free.
Hours
VIP and VIP Designated Driver: entry at 6 p.m.; General Admission and Standard Designated Driver: entry at 6:30 p.m.; event ends at 10 p.m.
Ages
21+
Food & Drink
Guests can sample over 100 craft spirits, beers, wines, and ciders, purchase food from concessions, or access a private buffet with VIP admission.
Parking
Parking is not included in standard or VIP admission and costs $8 per vehicle. Detroit Zoo members park free.
Accessibility
Wheelchair and electric convenience vehicle rentals are available at the Detroit Zoo.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Full face masks, toy weapons, balloons, and sharp materials are strictly prohibited as part of any costume.
- Parking is $8 per car on site, though Detroit Zoo members park for free.
- Tasting tickets come with a punch card for 3 oz. pours, while designated drivers receive wristbands for unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.
Special Events & Promotions
- Detroit Zoo members get 10% off Spooky Spirits tickets.
- The 2026 costume contest has multiple categories, with registration outside the Events Pavilion from 7–8 p.m.
- New in 2026: guests can explore the Canopy Trail, visit Stingray Cove until 8 p.m. and try the Wild Explorer VR Experience for an additional fee.
- General Admission begins at 6:30 p.m., a half-hour earlier than last year; VIP and VIP Designated Driver ticket holders enter at 6 p.m.
Links & Contact
Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are children or babies allowed to attend?
No. Spooky Spirits is strictly a 21-and-over event, and no one under 21 is admitted under any circumstances, including infants and toddlers. All guests must show a valid government-issued photo ID.
Are costumes required?
Costumes are encouraged and popular, but they are completely optional. Guests in costume can register for the contest outside the Events Pavilion.
Will the entire zoo be open during the event?
No. The back half of the zoo and the back half of the Erb Discovery Trails are closed during the evening to support animal well-being.
What happens if it rains?
Spooky Spirits is held rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, select features adjust to covered or sheltered areas.
Is food included with standard tickets?
Food is available for purchase at concessions and pop-up stands. VIP ticket holders receive included access to a private buffet in the VIP Lounge.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.