06/18/26 - WCSG's Travelin' Together - Binder Park Zoo

Binder Park Zoo's Lion Training Experience allows visitors to watch the interaction of these big animals with their handlers, safely at their enclosure. Image courtesy of Binder Park Zoo. 06/18/26.

Posted by: Joel Hill | Thursday, June 18th, 2026 ( 6:00am)

One of the fun traditions for families is a visit to the local zoo. One area zoo is planning for a spectacular weekend.

Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek showcases hundreds of animals from all over the world but the exhibit that attracts a lot of attention are the lions.

Enzi, Shelby and Salem are the three lions at the zoo, and you can observe them closer than before at the zoo's Lion Training Experience.

This one of a kind program offers an up close and amazing view of how these ‘kings of the jungle’ interact with trained providers at the zoo. You can view how the animals are cared for,and how zoo personnel work to encourage healthy behaviors and build trust.

Trainers do not enter the enclosure, but work with the animals by providing healthy learning exercises, designed to stimulate their curiosity and instinctive behaviors. Using a combination of game learning and instruction, the trainers have the animals complete tasks that are both challenging and enjoyable for the big cats.

This incredible opportunity is in addition to regular admission, and is available Saturday’s and Sunday’s this summer.

Visit their website for more information on times, tickets, and availability at Binder Park Zoo LTE.