The Best Zoos In Minnesota, USA To See Giraffes

1) Hemker Park and Zoo

https://hemkerzoo.com/

Nestled in the heart of Freeport, Minnesota, lies a zoological gem - Hemker Park and Zoo.

Home to over 200 animals, including favorites like giraffes, penguins, zebras, rhinos, and monkeys, this accessible family zoo sets itself apart as one of the state’s best.

Hemker Park and Zoo is dedicated not just to amusement, but also to conservation.

Visit to appreciate stunning wildlife while actively participating in their preservation.

Surprisingly, you won’t only enjoy a fascinating wildlife experience; Hemker Park and Zoo has ensured the park is fully accessible, boasting trails suitable for wheelchairs.

It’s a destination perfect for families with older children and toddlers alike! Plan for a leisurely 2-3 hours to explore all the attractions.

For budget planning, adult tickets are set at a reasonable $20.25, child tickets are $18.25, and concession tickets go for $19.25.

A family of four will spend approximately $95.25, with free entry for children under 2.

To fulfill your hunger pangs, food stalls are available, or bring your own food and drink to enjoy.

Parking is not an issue, with lots of available spaces at no extra cost.

Unfortunately, the zoo is not accessible by public transport, an important point to consider when planning your visit.

Please note, while you can’t hold the animals, you undoubtedly will have fun observing them.

And, while pet dogs cannot enjoy the experience alongside you, service animals are warmly welcomed.

For more information, reach out to Hemker Park and Zoo directly.

Don’t miss this Minnesota wonder!

2) Como Park

https://comozooconservatory.org/

Located in the bustling city of St.

Paul, Como Park Zoo is renowned as one of the most distinctive zoos in Minnesota.

With an assortment of exotic animals including tigers, giraffes, sloths, penguins and lions; this 14.5-acre family-friendly zoo offers an intimate opportunity to learn and interact with nature.

Designed with family in mind, it offers a multitude of activities suitable for all ages, from toddler-friendly exhibits to classes that stimulate learning.

Plus, the zoo is accessible for everyone, featuring wheelchair-friendly walkways and facilities.

Perhaps one of its most noticeable features, is its unique donation-based entry fee, which forms a part of its significant appeal.

Adults, children, and concessions are all encouraged to donate just $4, which makes a visit to this zoo remarkably affordable for a family of four.

Sadly, pets and public transport aren’t feasible options here but every cloud has a silver lining - you can bring your own food and drinks and take advantage of the park-like setting.

With accessibility, affordability and educational opportunities, it’s no wonder why Como Park is a must-visit zoo in Minnesota.

Other Zoos To Enjoy Without Giraffes

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

If you want to try another zoo that doesn’t have Giraffes, then one of these might be right for you.

Minnesota Zoo

https://mnzoo.org/

Minnesota Zoo, nestled in the heart of Apple Valley, is one of the best zoos in Minnesota for giraffe sightings.

It is a large zoo, sprawling over an impressive 485 acres and boasting a population of over 4,500 animals, including various species, one of which is the majestic giraffes.

The vast acreage ensures a natural and spacious habitat for the giraffes and other residents of the zoo, allowing visitors to observe the wonderful creatures in their most natural and relaxed state.

The zoo, on an average, will take around 3 to 4 hours to explore, giving an ample amount of time to watch and enjoy the giraffes, along with many other notable creatures such as tigers, bears, and penguins.

Visitors to the Minnesota Zoo often praise it as an ideal location for a family day out, not just for its wide variety of animals but also for its commitment to conservation, demonstrated through activities like llama treks and dolphin shows.

Apart from being an exciting place to see giraffes, it is very family-friendly and inclusive, being accessible for individuals with disabilities, although they do warn that some trails may not be suitable for wheelchairs.

The zoo even offers free entry for children under the age of 2, and a concession ticket is available at a discounted price.

While the zoo doesn’t allow the handling of animals nor bringing pet dogs (service animals excluded), visitors have the option to bring their own food and drinks.

With food stalls also available on-site and parking that costs a mere $7 per car, the Minnesota Zoo offers an affordable, fun-filled day of giraffe watching for the entire family.

Lake Superior Zoo

https://lszooduluth.org/

Tucked away in the charming city of Duluth, Minnesota, Lake Superior Zoo offers an enticing spectacle for giraffe enthusiasts.

Spanning 19 expansive acres, the zoo is committed to offering behind-the-scenes experiences for its visitors, making it a top spot for a comprehensive encounter with giraffes amidst the over 200 different animal species in the zoo.

Whether you’re an adult nature lover or a kid with curiosity about wildlife, the zoo provides a platform to witness the tall, majestic creatures in a medium-sized setting that keeps the experience intimate and enjoyable.

With an average visiting time of two hours, it ensures ample time to marvel at the giraffes without rushing through.

Lake Superior Zoo combines a quintessential mix of family fun and educational encounters, making it suitable for families with older children.

This zoo’s accessibility is a major highlight – the wide walkways are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that the joy of a zoo visit isn’t confined by mobility restrictions.

Forget about the common concerns of parking or expenses! The parking is free, and the overall ticket prices are quite reasonable, making for a delightful day out at the zoo.

Interestingly, they also welcome you to bring your own food and drinks, so plan for a picnic amidst the wild roars and squawks! However, note that while you can observe and connect with the giraffes, a direct interaction by holding the creatures isn’t permitted here.

A visit to Lake Superior Zoo is sure to leave you and your family with cherished memories of observing the captivating giraffes in this distinctive Minnesota love-spot for wildlife.