A Complete Guide To The Best Zoos In Minnesota, USA

1) Minnesota Zoo

https://mnzoo.org/

Nestled in picturesque Apple Valley, Minnesota, the Minnesota Zoo is a must-see large zoo for any family outings or day trips.

Covering a massive 485 acres, this famed zoo is home to a remarkable 4,500 animals that represent 505 different species, a few of which include exotic tigers, inquisitive bears, and lively penguins.

The zoo has notably positioned itself as a leader in conservation and emanates attentiveness to its mission throughout the zoo.

Even though it is an expansive zoo, an average visit would still likely only take up 3-4 hours, making it achievable and enjoyable in a single day.

The cost of the visit is also reasonable; at only $19.95 for adults, $13.95 for children and concessions and free for children under two, a family of four could have an amazing day out for an average of just $67.8.

Despite it being slightly inaccessible by public transport, the Minnesota Zoo offers ample parking for a minor cost of $7.00 per car.

When it comes to dining options, the zoo extends a broad array of food stalls catering to many dietary preferences; you can even bring your own food and drinks! Do note that while enjoying the expansive range of fauna, the chances to hold any of them are limited due to safety measures.

It’s also critical to note that while your beloved pet dogs can’t accompany you on this adventure, service animals are rightfully welcomed.

In case of any queries, the zoo’s administration can be easily reached for further clarifications.

With so much to offer, the Minnesota Zoo ensures an engaging, family-friendly experience for everyone but is particularly appropriate for families with older children.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Minnesota For Families

2) Hemker Park and Zoo

https://hemkerzoo.com/

Tucked away in Freeport, Minnesota, and teeming with over 200 diverse species, the Hemker Park and Zoo is truly a wildlife paradise.

Not just giraffes and Zebras, but you can also get up close and personal with awe-inspiring Rhinos, playful Penguins, and mischievous Monkeys.

As an active player in wildlife preservation and conservation, the zoo’s commitment extends beyond engagement and education.

The space has been meticulously designed to ensure accessibility for all.

Disability access is a top priority, with trails fully suitable for wheelchairs ensuring the beauty of the zoo is enjoyed by everyone.

The Hemker Park and Zoo is the quintessential destination for a family day out.

Catering to families with both toddlers as well as older children, the zoo presents an exciting and engaging visit that typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to cover.

Affordably priced, an adult ticket costs $20.25 whereas a child ticket is available for $18.25.

If you’re planning a family trip, an average family of four would be spending around $95.25 for an unforgettable experience, children under the age of two even get free entry! The zoo also offers concession tickets at $19.25.

While public transportation access is not available, ample parking facilities are provided free of charge for visitors.

The zoo caters to all needs; you can savor a meal at one of their food stalls or carry your own food and drink.

Please note, apart from service animals, pets are not allowed in the zoo.

Get ready for an experience of a lifetime at Hemker Park and Zoo, contact them today for more information.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Minnesota For Toddlers

3) Como Park

https://comozooconservatory.org/

Nestled inside the lovely St Paul of Minnesota, USA lies the charming Como Park.

This family-friendly zoo prides itself on its comprehensive range of animals of all shapes and sizes- from towering giraffes to adorable sloths, playful penguins, majestic tigers, and regal lions; the animal residents at Como Park never fail to fascinate visitors.

Covering a good 14.5 acres, this zoo provides ample space for a lengthy, immersive experience among the wonders of the animal kingdom.

As you stroll along the wheelchair-friendly walkways, encountering unique species at every turn, you’ll likely spend an average of two engrossing hours exploring all there is to see.

The beauty of Como Park, besides its exotic array of animals, lies in its affordability.

One of its unique features is its admirable ‘entry by donation’ system.

Adults, children and concessions are encouraged to donate $4, $2 and $4 respectively, making a trip for an average-sized family as affordable as $12.

Worth noting is the complimentary entry offered to toddlers under the age of 2.

Although Como Park cannot be accessed via public transportation, there’s parking available for your vehicle.

While you have the option of indulging in the delicious offerings from the food stalls dotted around the zoo, you are also welcome to bring your own food and drink.

Unfortunately, holding animals is prohibited and pet dogs are not allowed into the park, with an exception for service animals.

For those seeking a comfortable, and cost-effective animal experience Como Park is the ultimate choice.

Contact them today for more information.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Minnesota For Dogs

4) Lake Superior Zoo

https://lszooduluth.org/

Nestled in the charming city of Duluth, Minnesota, USA, the Lake Superior Zoo offers a memorable experience for all its visitors.

It is a medium-sized property, sprawled across a lush 19-acre area that houses over 200 animals, offering a brilliant spectacle for animal enthusiasts as well as curious minds.

You can expect to see a diverse range of animals, from imposing tigers to cuddly bears, agile kangaroos to adorable barnyard creatures, cheeky prairie dogs to playful lemurs - a perfect day of mesmerising sights for both children and adults.

As the zoo is best suited for families with older kids and ensures disability access with wheelchair-friendly walkways, it is undoubtedly a fun family destination that caters to all.

An exciting feature of this zoo is the ‘behind the scenes’ experiences, which augment the thrill for visitors.

Each visitor is rewarded with an immersive experience that usually lasts about 2 hours making it worth the price of an adult ticket $16 and a child ticket $10.

Usefully, families can save with the total price for a family of 4 being just $52, and kids under the age of 2 enjoy free entry.

However, please note that the zoo does not offer public transport access but does have ample parking, which is freely provided.

If you plan on visiting, you also have the option to sate your hunger pangs at the available food stalls or you could bring your own food and drink into the zoo.

Do remember though, while pets aren’t permitted, service animals are legally allowed.

For any further information, visitors are encouraged to contact the zoo directly.

READ MORE: Best Zoos In Minnesota For Disability Access

• Which is better: Minnesota Zoo Or Hemker Park and Zoo
• Which is better: Minnesota Zoo Or Como Park
• Which is better: Minnesota Zoo Or Lake Superior Zoo
• Which is better: Hemker Park and Zoo Or Como Park
• Which is better: Hemker Park and Zoo Or Lake Superior Zoo
• Which is better: Como Park Or Lake Superior Zoo