1 / 3Arctic Ring of Life - Polar Bear & Sea Otter
📍 Royal Oak, MI
The Arctic Ring of Life at Detroit Zoo is home to polar bears, sea otters, and Arctic foxes. A transparent underwater tunnel lets visitors watch the animals swim overhead and around them. Tickets must be purchased in advance for non-members.
Always a great place to watch the animals swim.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for children ages 3 and up who can appreciate the underwater tunnel experience. Polar bears and sea otters are most active in cooler morning hours — plan accordingly for the best animal sightings. The tunnel creates a genuinely memorable moment for young children.
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💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,477 Google reviews
Manda Forshey-Allen (M)
“Always a great place to watch the animals swim.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Set within the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak, the Arctic Ring of Life recreates a northern Arctic environment for polar bears, sea otters, and Arctic foxes. The exhibit's centerpiece is an underwater viewing tunnel where polar bears and sea otters swim directly over and around visitors. Best viewing occurs earlier in the day and in cooler weather when animals are most active. The exhibit is included with general zoo admission. Stroller and wagon rentals are available at the zoo entrance.
