Minnesota Zoo
A 485-acre preserve showcasing diverse local and global animals, featuring the world's longest Treetop Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Minnesota Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 485-acre preserve showcasing diverse local and global animals, featuring the world's longest Treetop Trail.
"A magical experience for all ages, the Minnesota Zoo is truly one of the best places to spend the day."
Book Jack-o'-Lantern tickets early
These popular fall events sell out! Buy your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry. :ticket:
Explore the Treetop Trail
A unique perspective! It can get warm up there, so consider visiting earlier in the day. :trees:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Treetop Trail
Elevated pedestrian loop
Walk among the trees on the world's longest elevated pedestrian loop, offering unique aerial views of animals.
Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular
Zoo grounds (seasonal)
Marvel at thousands of intricately carved pumpkins that illuminate the zoo during the fall season.
Red Panda Exhibit
Zoo grounds
Get a glimpse of the adorable and elusive red pandas in their specially designed habitat.
Northern Trail
Zoo grounds
Encounter animals adapted to colder climates, including Russian grizzly bears and wolves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Tickets & Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Jack-o'-Lantern tickets early
These popular fall events sell out! Buy your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry. :ticket:
Explore the Treetop Trail
A unique perspective! It can get warm up there, so consider visiting earlier in the day. :trees:
Pack snacks & water
Save money and stay hydrated. Plenty of spots to rest and enjoy your treats. :apple:
Check show schedules
The bird show is a hit! Plan your day around these engaging and educational presentations. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Jack-o'-Lantern tickets early
These popular fall events sell out! Buy your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry. :ticket:
Explore the Treetop Trail
A unique perspective! It can get warm up there, so consider visiting earlier in the day. :trees:
Pack snacks & water
Save money and stay hydrated. Plenty of spots to rest and enjoy your treats. :apple:
Check show schedules
The bird show is a hit! Plan your day around these engaging and educational presentations. :bird:
Consider a membership
If you plan to visit multiple times, a membership offers great value and perks. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Minnesota Zoo for its spacious, clean, and well-designed exhibits, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences suitable for all seasons. The Treetop Trail and engaging animal shows are frequently highlighted as favorites, contributing to a magical and educational day out for families and individuals alike. While most experiences are positive, some wish for more diverse food choices.
"My family loves this zoo! We come here often and there are always new things to explore. They do a great job of keeping it fun and interactive for all ages. We especially love the outdoors trails and the tree top trail. There are indoor and outdoor experiences making it perfect year round. There are food options (including a few gluten free), multiple playgrounds and lots of shows to catch. We even love the adults only evenings. Staff and volunteers are always helpful and friendly, I have never had a bad experience here. I even lost a mitten here one time and their lost and found system is very organized!"
Michelle Anderson
"It's a pretty good zoo. Decent variety of animals. Some really fun exhibits. The carousel was a big hit with my kids. A lot of variety of animals to pick on it. No lines for anything. The Treetop Trail was interesting... A fun idea to be above the zoo and animals. But it would have been a lot of fun if it was like a train that high to see everything. B/c it was hot and sunny up there. The splash pad area was fun. Recommend the bird show. It was really fun."
Matt Brown
"A magical experience for all ages! 🐾🌿
Minnesota Zoo is truly one of the best places to spend the day, whether you’re with family, friends, or just exploring on your own. The variety of animals is incredible — from majestic tigers 🐅 and playful bears 🐻 to exotic birds 🦜 and underwater wonders 🐠.
What I loved most was how spacious, clean, and well-designed the zoo is. Every section feels like its own little world — the Tropics Trail, the Northern Trail, the Discovery Bay… each one tells a story and brings you closer to nature. 🌍❤️
The staff were friendly and passionate, always happy to answer questions and help. The animals looked well cared for, and the environment felt safe, educational, and fun for everyone.
Perfect for a full-day adventure, with plenty of rest areas, food stands, and kid-friendly activities. Don’t miss the farm section — it’s a favorite! 🐐👧
Definitely a place I’ll return to — and highly recommend for anyone visiting Minnesota! 🎟️🦓"
HAMAD ALSHEEB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Minnesota Zoo is located in Apple Valley, MN. You can drive there, with ample parking available. Public transportation options exist, but may require transfers. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Yes, the Minnesota Zoo offers ample parking for visitors. It's generally free, making it convenient for those driving to the zoo.
Driving is the most direct way from Minneapolis. Alternatively, you can explore bus routes that connect Minneapolis to Apple Valley, though this may take longer.
Yes, public transportation is available, though it might involve multiple bus transfers depending on your starting point in the Twin Cities. It's recommended to check with your local transit authority for specific routes.
The Minnesota Zoo is located in Apple Valley, which is a suburb south of Minneapolis. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes without heavy traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, especially for special events like the Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular. General admission prices are typically around $20-$25 for adults. It's best to check the official Minnesota Zoo website for current pricing and to purchase tickets online.
While some tickets might be available at the gate, it's highly recommended to purchase your Minnesota Zoo tickets online in advance, especially for popular events like the Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular, as they can sell out.
The zoo sometimes offers discounts for seniors, children, and military personnel. Check their website for any ongoing promotions or group rates. Memberships can also offer significant savings if you plan to visit frequently.
Minnesota Zoo hours vary by season and day of the week. Generally, they are open daily, but it's crucial to check the official Minnesota Zoo website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
For general admission, time slots are usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the zoo's official website for any updates or specific entry requirements, especially during peak seasons or special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Treetop Trail for unique views, the new Red Panda exhibit, and the immersive Northern Trail. The Tropics Trail and Discovery Bay also offer diverse animal encounters.
Absolutely! The Minnesota Zoo is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits, playgrounds, and shows like the bird show. The Treetop Trail and farm section are often big hits with children.
The Treetop Trail is an elevated pedestrian loop, the longest of its kind in the world, allowing visitors to walk through the forest canopy and observe animals from above.
Yes, the Minnesota Zoo features several playgrounds, including a popular splash pad area, providing fun and active spaces for children to enjoy.
You can see a wide variety of animals, including Russian grizzly bears, tigers, monkeys, sea lions, caribou, birds, and butterflies, representing both local and global wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Minnesota Zoo offers various food stands and dining options throughout the park. They have some gluten-free choices available. Bringing your own snacks and water is also a good idea.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at designated picnic areas or rest spots within the zoo.
While specific menus can change, zoos often have a mix of options. It's advisable to check the zoo's current food vendor information or inquire upon arrival for vegetarian or vegan choices.
Yes, there are food stands and cafes located within the Minnesota Zoo offering a range of snacks and meals for visitors.
Reviews suggest a decent variety of food options, with some gluten-free choices available. Bringing your own snacks is also a popular strategy for many visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The Treetop Trail offers unique elevated perspectives. The Red Panda exhibit and various animal enclosures provide great opportunities. The Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular is also highly photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Minnesota Zoo for personal use. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding flash photography or restrictions in certain areas.
A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture animals at various distances. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the Treetop Trail and general zoo landscapes.
Typically, drone usage is prohibited within zoo grounds to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and visitors. Always check the zoo's official policy regarding drones.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This also coincides with times when animals may be more active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular for a magical fall experience, but be sure to book tickets in advance. For a more relaxed visit, pack snacks and water, and utilize the many rest areas. The Treetop Trail offers a unique adventure, though it can be sunny, so plan accordingly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for potential discounts on tickets through memberships or special promotions if you plan multiple visits. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds and potentially enjoy a more relaxed experience without additional costs. The zoo's vast grounds offer plenty of space to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings, making it a worthwhile outing for those mindful of their budget.
👫 Couples & Date Ideas
For a unique evening, consider attending one of the adults-only evenings or the Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular for a more romantic or festive atmosphere.
Packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the zoo's scenery can also add a special touch to your date. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Treetop Trail Experience
Walking the Treetop Trail provides a sense of being one with nature, as you meander through the trees. While it offers fantastic views, visitors should be prepared for potential sun exposure, as it can get quite warm and sunny, especially during midday. Planning your visit for earlier in the day can enhance comfort and enjoyment. The trail is designed to be accessible, allowing a wide range of visitors to experience this innovative attraction.
This elevated walkway is more than just a path; it's an opportunity to see the zoo from a different angle, appreciating the zoo's commitment to creating engaging and educational experiences. It’s a highlight that many visitors rave about, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional ground-level viewing.
Seasonal Magic: Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular
Due to its immense popularity, tickets for the Jack-o'-Lantern Spectacular are known to sell out quickly. Visitors are strongly advised to purchase their tickets online well in advance of their desired date to avoid disappointment. The event typically runs from late September through early November, making it a perfect addition to your fall bucket list.
+1This event offers a unique way to experience the zoo after dark, combining art, nature, and festive cheer. It's a memorable outing for families and friends, providing a visually stunning and fun-filled evening that captures the essence of the autumn season.
Animal Encounters & Conservation
Recent additions, like the new Red Panda exhibit, highlight the zoo's dedication to providing enriching environments for its animals and offering visitors closer encounters with rare species. The zoo emphasizes education, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.
Whether you're observing the graceful movements of sea lions or the quiet charm of caribou, each visit contributes to the zoo's mission. The well-maintained habitats and passionate staff ensure that the animals are cared for, and visitors have an engaging and educational experience that connects them to the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit