Wild Strides 5K will take place on April 20, 2027, at 1300 Fulton St. W in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Entry prices range from $15.00 to $65.00. The race offers 5K and 5 mile distances with a typical start time of 6:00 PM. A virtual participation option is available.
From the Race Organizer
Celebrate Earth Day with John Ball Zoo at the Wild Strides 5K & Kids Half Mile , an evening of movement, family fun, and wildlife! The Wild Strides 5K starts at John Ball Zoo, winds through the scenic Kent Trail, and finishes inside the Zoo. Runners and walkers will experience a unique course surrounded by nature and the sights and sounds of the Zoo. All 5K participants receive an official race T-shirt, finisher medal, and a ticket to the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival. Our Kids Half Mile is a fun, energetic race designed especially for young runners, with the entire course taking place inside John Ball Zoo! Kids will race through the Zoo for a one-of-a-kind experience before crossing the finish line and celebrating their accomplishment. All Kids Half Mile participants receive a race T-shirt and finisher medal. But Wild Strides is more than just a race! The Race Day Village will be the place to kick off the celebration and stick around after the finish. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including a bounce house, face painting, a DJ, food trucks and local booths, ambassador animals, and opportunities to learn more about the Zoo and the wildlife we work to protect. There will be plenty to see, do, and enjoy for the whole family. Whether you're racing the 5K, cheering on a young runner, or simply joining us for the celebration, Wild Strides is a fun way to get moving, connect with your community, and kick off Earth Day at the Zoo. Come run wild, celebrate Earth Day, and make an evening of it at John Ball Zoo! 📍 EVENT DETAILS DATE: Tuesday, April 20, 2027 LOCATION: John Ball Zoo: 1300 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 SCHEDULE: Packet Pickup & Pre Race Festivities - 5:00 PM Kids Half Mile - 6:00 PM 5K Race - 7:00 PM 5K Fun Run/Walk - 7:10 PM 🅿️ PARKING: All participants should park in the John Ball Zoo parking lots Parking is free for all participants and spectators. When you arrive, you may need to take a ticket at the gate, but no payment or validation is required. Exit gates will open automatically on race night. Please follow directional signage and staff guidance We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking & check-in
Course & Travel Notes
In April, Grand Rapids typically experiences average highs of 57°F and lows of 35°F, with measurable precipitation on 47% of days. Wild Strides 5K takes place at 709 ft elevation with a 6:00 PM start time, well after the 6:53 AM sunrise. Gerald R. Ford International Airport is located 10.8 miles from the venue.
⛰️ 709 ft elevation☀️ Typically 57°F / 35°F · 47% chance of rain✈️ Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) — 10.8 mi
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for April 20.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Grand Rapids, MI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
Wild Strides 5K 2027 — Grand Rapids, MI takes place on April 20, 2027. The race is held in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Where is Wild Strides 5K 2027 — Grand Rapids, MI held?
Wild Strides 5K 2027 — Grand Rapids, MI is held at 1300 Fulton St. W in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Where can I find hotels near Wild Strides 5K 2027 — Grand Rapids, MI?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Grand Rapids. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
