The Best Zoo In Minnesota, USA For Families

1) Minnesota Zoo

Located in Apple Valley, the Minnesota Zoo is a popular destination for families seeking an adventurous day out.

Covering an extensive 485-acre area, the zoo houses more than 4,500 animals represented in 505 species, including fascinating creatures like tigers, bears, and penguins.

A family can comfortably explore all the attractions this vast zoo has to offer in 3-4 hours, making it a perfect getaway for a day.

The zoo impresses not only with its diverse lineup of animals but also with its commendable initiatives in conservation.

The considerable variety of animals ensures that visitors of all ages, especially families with older children, will find something interesting and exciting here.

Minnesota Zoo values the interests of all its visitors, offering a number of facilities to ensure a pleasant experience, including food stalls and designated picnic areas where visitors are welcomed to enjoy their own packed meals.

Furthermore, it is handicapped accessible, crucial for families with members with mobility issues.

Though some trails may be unsuitable for wheelchairs, most of the zoo can be explored without difficulty.

While pets aren’t allowed for the safety of the animals, service animals are legally welcomed in the zoo premises.

However, the zoo advice’s getting in touch to know more about their policy regarding service animals.

The ticket prices are reasonably priced, with a special provision of free entry for children under the age of two.

They also offer concessions tickets, ensuring a delightful outing without straining your budget.

Though it may be more convenient for families to reach the premises by their own transport, ample parking space is available at a reasonable cost.

2) Hemker Park and Zoo

Nestled in the cozy town of Freeport, Minnesota, is a wonderland for nature enthusiasts and adventure-loving families: the Hemker Park and Zoo.

Renowned for its diverse collection of over 200 magnificent creatures, including giraffes, penguins, zebras, rhinos, and monkeys, the park offers a dynamic excursion spot for families.

It not only aspires to be a hub of enthralling exposure to exotic wildlife but also an earnest advocate for conservation.

What makes Hemker stand out is its commitment towards inclusivity.

The zoo’s trails are wheelchair-accessible, presenting an opportunity for everyone to explore the fascinating realm of wildlife.

Given its extensive display of captivating attractions, visitors typically spend around 2-3 hours at the park, offering a day filled with exploration and fun.

Price-wise, Hemker Park and Zoo adopts a family-oriented approach.

The cost of an adult ticket is a reasonable $20.25, while a child’s ticket is priced at $18.25.

Those under the age of two are granted free entry, making it a hit among families with toddlers.

Moreover, concessions tickets cost $19.25, making the total expense for an average family of four approximately $95.25.

Nevertheless, what makes it a delightful experience is the proximity to the animals and the freedom to bring your own food and drink, all while enjoying free parking.

Overall, Hemker Park and Zoo checks all the boxes for an entertaining, accessible, and family-friendly location, making it deserve its spot among the best zoos in Minnesota.

3) Como Park

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, nestled in picturesque St Paul, Minnesota, is a gem of a place that explores animal and plant life in its 14.5-acre expanse.

Boasting a diverse range of species from giraffes to penguins, and sloths to lions, this zoo offers an immersive and educational experience that caters to the whole family.

Especially noteworthy is the superb accessibility, with walkways designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can have an engaging and unforgettable trip to the zoo.

Apart from being rich in its wildlife assortment, Como Park Zoo offers a unique payment structure which makes it one of the best family-friendly zoos in Minnesota.

The entry fee to the zoo is a voluntary donation, with a suggested amount of $4 for adults, $2 for children, and concessions at $4, making an average family outing incredibly affordable at a suggested total of only $12 for a family of four.

Importantly, children under the age of two get free entry.

Visitors also have the added convenience of bringing their own food and drink, although there are food stalls available.

While the zoo does not have public transport accessibility or its own parking facility, it underscores the facility’s commitment to providing a great value, and inclusive family experience in the heart of Minnesota.

4) Lake Superior Zoo

Nestled in Duluth Minnesota, Lake Superior Zoo is a must-visit destination for families.

This 19-acre sanctuary is home to over 200 animals including rare and exotic creatures like tigers, bears, kangaroos, prairie dogs, and lemurs, creating a wonderful journey into the wild.

For those who love barnyard animals, the zoo offers an incredible encounter with countryside favorites.

The size of the zoo allows its visitors to see all the attractions in about two hours, making it a perfect spot for short family visits or those with older children.

The zoo has a very welcoming family pricing system with adult tickets at $16, child tickets at $10, and children under the age of two getting free entry, the total price of an average family of four visiting the zoo is $52.

Lake Superior Zoo is known for its behind the scenes experiences, offering families an opportunity for fun and education, all wrapped in one.

Despite its medium size, the zoo has made a special effort for disability access, with walkways suitable for wheelchairs all over its sprawling compound.

Food stalls are readily available, but families are also allowed to bring their own food and drinks, perfect for a quiet family picnic in the zoo.

Although pets are not allowed, service animals are legally allowed to accompany their owners.

With ample parking facilities that are free for its visitors and located away from the hustle-bustle of public transport routes, Lake Superior Zoo promises a day of peaceful and engaging, family-focused adventure.

However, be sure to contact the zoo in advance for any specific information.