The Best Zoo In Minnesota, USA For Dogs

If you have a tail-wagger at home and reside in the glorious state of Minnesota, then our comprehensive guide to the state's best dog-friendly zoos is the perfect read for you! As unconventional as it sounds, our beloved furry friends also appreciate getting up close and personal with the ferocity of a lion or the majesty of an elephant.

Combine their walk routine with an informative immersion into the diverse animal kingdom, and you've got an excited pup with a whole new collection of smells to explore.

So leash up and get ready to embark on a wild adventure through the best zoos in Minnesota where our canine companions are more than welcome!

The Best Zoo In Minnesota, USA For Dogs

At A Glance

While Minnesota boasts some uniquely wonderful zoos, packed with a vast array of wildlife from around the globe, it’s important to highlight that these establishments are not suitable for dogs.

Zoos are designed and maintained with the welfare of their inhabitants at heart, encompassing a diverse collection of animals, some of which are not comfortable around canines.

Moreover, the sights, sounds, and smells of the zoo environment can be incredibly stressful for dogs.

Therefore, in the interest of maintaining a safe, serene, and stress-free environment for zoo residents– as well as for the comfort of your furry friend– it is generally forbidden to bring dogs or other pets to these locations.

Other Zoos To Enjoy

There are so many other great zoos to enjoy in Minnesota.

If you want to try another zoo, then one of these might be right for you.

Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo is located in the picturesque Apple Valley and is no doubt one of the best zoos in Minnesota, USA.

Spread over a sprawling 485 acres, this zoo offers a large amount of space to showcase a remarkable 4,500 animals and 505 species.

Among the notable residents are the majestic tigers, playful bears, adorable penguins, and more.

Those who have visited testify that it takes an average of about 3-4 hours to fully experience all the attractions.

The zoo’s commitment extends beyond simply displaying animals; it’s also deeply committed to conservation.

By visiting, you directly contribute to their effort to conserve wildlife.

Not just that, the Minnesota Zoo prunes towards creating a fun-filled family day out with several engaging activities.

Grown-ups would love the llama treks while the kids could get excited about the dolphin shows.

Admission fees are quite reasonable at $19.95 for adults and $13.95 for children.

Also noteworthy is the fact that they allow kids under the age of two to enter free of charge.

While the zoo may not be readily accessed by public transport, parking is available for a fee of $7 per vehicle.

Food stalls are aplenty but you also have the option to bring your own food and drinks.

Though you cannot hold any of the animals or bring your pet dog, service animals are legally permitted.

Accessibility for disabled visitors may vary as some trails might not be wheelchair-friendly.

Overall, a visit to the Minnesota Zoo promises to be a memorable experience.

Be sure to contact them for any additional information.

Find Out More About Minnesota Zoo

  • 13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124, United States
  • 952-431-9200
  • https://mnzoo.org/

Hemker Park and Zoo

Nestled in Freeport, Minnesota, Hemker Park and Zoo is a true wildlife sanctuary that welcomes animal lovers of all ages.

This family zoo is an accessible marvel, accommodating everyone, including those with physical disabilities—it features trails suitable for wheelchairs, ensuring nobody misses out on the fun.

The zoo boasts an impressive collection of over 200 animals, featuring notable species such as giraffes, penguins, zebras, rhinos, and monkeys.

As a beacon of conservation, the park places a high emphasis on preserving endangered species and educating visitors about these magnificent creatures.

The expansive park takes approximately 2-3 hours to explore, offering an immersive experience crafted perfectly for families with older children and toddlers alike.

At the affordable prices of $20.25 for an adult ticket, $18.25 for a child’s ticket, and $19.25 for a concessions ticket, an average family of four can have a fun-filled and educational day out for only $95.25.

Even better, children under the age of 2 gain free entry.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic—while Hemker Park and Zoo does have food stalls available, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.

Parking is completely free, offering convenience although the park cannot be accessed by public transport.

While personal pets are not permitted within the zoo, service animals are legally allowed.

Visitors are encouraged to contact the zoo for more information and to plan their visit.

Find Out More About Hemker Park and Zoo

  • 26715 Co Rd 39, Freeport, MN 56331, United States
  • 320-836-2426
  • https://hemkerzoo.com/

Como Park

Nestled within the heart of St Paul, Minnesota, Como Park Zoo stands as an emblem of family-friendly fun and educational animal encounters.

Securely lodged on a glorious 14.5-acre landmass, this delightful zoo homes an array of intriguing wildlife, from majestic tigers and lions to graceful giraffes and playful penguins.

Como Park gracefully integrates classes and learning into their visitor’s experience, with various live animal exhibits that involve viewing these stunning creatures in their naturalistic habitats.

As a walk in the park, literally and figuratively, this zoo readily accommodates families with toddlers and older children as well as those with disabilities- its walkways are wheelchair-accessible, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Entrance into the world of Como Park doesn’t have to be a strain on your purse strings.

With a flexible ‘donate what you can’ policy, admission for adults, children and concessions is set nominally at $4, $2 and $4 respectively, while children under two enjoy free access.

A typical family of four can immerse themselves in the atmospheric delight of the zoo at an incredibly affordable voluntary donation of $12 in total.

For your convenience, food stands are conveniently located around the zoo, alternatively, you can bring your food and drink.

Please note that while pets are not permitted, service animals are legally allowed.

Unfortunately, the zoo is not directly accessible by public transport, it does not provide parking but there are nearby locations where parking can be paid for.

For a further breakdown of valuable information, it’s always a great idea to contact the zoo directly.

From its captivating animal inhabitants to its commitment to inclusivity and affordability, Como Park offers an enriching encounter with nature in the heart of Minnesota.

Find Out More About Como Park

  • 1225 ESTABROOK DRIVE ST PAUL, MN 55103
  • 651-487-8201
  • https://comozooconservatory.org/

Lake Superior Zoo

Nestled among 19 lush acres in the heart of Duluth, Minnesota, the Lake Superior Zoo serves as a medium-sized spectacle that is easily accessible and boasts an array of stunning animals in a family-friendly environment.

From the playful kangaroos and adorable prairie dogs to the mysterious tigers and roaring bears, the zoo is home to over 200 diverse species of animals, including lovable barnyard inhabitants and fascinating lemurs.

Evoking thrill and excitement, the Lake Superior Zoo stands out for its unique behind-the-scenes experiences that comprise insightful information about the exotic inmates and their captivating lifestyles.

The zoo, designed thoughtfully, features smooth walkways that are wheelchair-friendly, making it a fantastic destination for families with older children and those requiring disability access.

With an average time of two hours needed to fully explore all attractions, this superb place offers a worthy respite for those seeking an enjoyable day amid nature and wildlife.

Adult tickets are priced at ‎$16 and child tickets at $10, while infants under two years enjoy free entry.

With an average cost of $52 for a family of four, the zoo offers an affordable and entertaining outing.

Additionally, visitors can savor the variety of delicacies at several food stalls scattered across the premises or bring their own food and drinks.

Make note that while pets are not permitted, service animals are legally allowed.

The zoo also offers ample parking spaces free of charge, but it is not accessible via public transportation.

For more details and information, Lake Superior Zoo awaits your call.

Try it out, and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of nature and the animal kingdom!

Find Out More About Lake Superior Zoo

  • 7210 Fremont St, Duluth, MN 55807, United States
  • 218-730-4500
  • https://lszooduluth.org/

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