Blank Park Zoo
Iowa's only accredited zoo, offering diverse animal encounters, educational programs, and seasonal events for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Blank Park Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iowa's only accredited zoo, offering diverse animal encounters, educational programs, and seasonal events for all ages.
"A fun and educational outing for families with engaging exhibits and friendly staff."
🎟️ Adventure Pass Savings
Check your local library for an Adventure Pass for free admission!
🐘 Seasonal Exhibits
Verify which attractions are open seasonally before your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Macaque
Primate House
Witness the adorable antics of Yumi, the baby Japanese macaque, experiencing snow for the first time!
Dinosaur Discovery Trail
Various locations
Roar into fun with realistic dinosaur exhibits that delight kids and adults alike. A must-see for dino enthusiasts!
Amur Tiger
Big Cat Exhibit
See Misha, the majestic Amur tiger, and learn about the zoo's conservation efforts for these endangered big cats.
Flower Archway
Entrance area
Stroll through a beautiful, vibrant flower archway, a picturesque spot perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Plan for All Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Adventure Pass Savings
Check your local library for an Adventure Pass for free admission!
🐘 Seasonal Exhibits
Verify which attractions are open seasonally before your visit.
🍺 Zoo Brew Fun
Enjoy this 21+ event for a unique zoo experience with drinks. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture memories at the flower archway and with various animal exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Adventure Pass Savings
Check your local library for an Adventure Pass for free admission!
🐘 Seasonal Exhibits
Verify which attractions are open seasonally before your visit.
🍺 Zoo Brew Fun
Enjoy this 21+ event for a unique zoo experience with drinks. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture memories at the flower archway and with various animal exhibits.
🌳 Shady Spots
The zoo offers good tree cover, making hot days more bearable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Blank Park Zoo for its engaging exhibits, especially the dinosaur trail and primate area, and appreciate the friendly staff. While some note seasonal closures or discrepancies in demonstration schedules, the overall experience is described as a fun and educational outing for families. The zoo's conservation efforts and special events like Bright Lights are also highlighted positively.
"9/28/25
2nd time taking our kiddos to this zoo. The last time we went was July 2024 and had a great time! Definitely was surprised how big it got since I was in elementary school.
Today was a great day coming, we got there around 10:30am and there was no line. We bought our tickets online and got to use our kids free admission tickets from the summer reading program 😍
Wasn’t super busy at all! Which made it so easy to look at each exhibit without feeling rushed by the crowd. Some attractions were closed due to the end of certain seasons. So always check online to see which ones. Was a bit disappointed that they didn’t have the sea lion training demonstration as the website states its a daily activity except for Tuesdays. My kids and I waited for 30ish minutes in the area to see the 3:15pm slot and when I finally asked, the staff member told me it was only for the summer. No worries, but please state that on your website please 🥲
Otherwise the kids of course had a great day at the zoo and loved seeing all the Dino’s as well!!! ❤️"
Jennavie Ochoa
"My family and I loved going to their Bright Lights lantern light display! It was absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. There are so many beautiful and well-crafted lighted lanterns to look at, all a variety of plants and animals. They even had some extra areas for kids, such as these lit-up swings and a music and dancing area. Definitely an experience I recommend! Well worth it and we will be back."
Megan
"Nice little zoo with plenty to offer. The exhibits are interesting and the zoo has a lot of places to explore. The day I went with my group it was very hot, luckily the zoo has a bunch of tree cover.
The staff were nice and answered my questions whenever we asked about the animals. The gift shop was great. Tempted myself with several shirts and got my son a couple of gifts."
Brandon H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blank Park Zoo is located in Des Moines, Iowa. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local Des Moines transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, Blank Park Zoo offers parking for visitors. It's generally considered to have plenty of space, especially on weekdays.
The address for Blank Park Zoo is 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315.
While specific routes can vary, public transport is an option in Des Moines. It's recommended to check the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) website for the most current bus routes and schedules that serve the Blank Park Zoo area.
The zoo is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission for adults is typically around $20, with discounts for seniors and children. It's best to check the official Blank Park Zoo website for the most up-to-date pricing and to purchase tickets in advance. +1
Yes, you can often find discount tickets! Check with your local library for an 'Adventure Pass' which may offer free admission. Also, look out for seasonal promotions or group rates.
Blank Park Zoo hours typically vary by season. They are generally open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during summer. Always check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Absolutely! Purchasing Blank Park Zoo tickets online in advance is highly recommended. It often saves time at the entrance and ensures you have your admission secured, especially during peak times.
Yes, Blank Park Zoo offers various membership options, including individual, family, and science center memberships. A membership can provide unlimited visits for a year and often includes other perks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Blank Park Zoo is home to over 800 animals, including primates like Japanese macaques,+1 Amur tigers,
zebras,
elephants,
giraffes, flamingos,
Yes! Blank Park Zoo features a petting zoo, a carousel, train rides, and seasonal events like the Dinosaur Discovery Trail and Bright Lights lantern display, making it a fantastic place for families.
Zoo Brew is a special 21+ event held on select Wednesday evenings, offering a chance to enjoy the zoo with adult beverages and live music, without children.
Certain areas, like the petting zoo and sometimes specific feeding experiences (like feeding fish or goats), allow visitors to feed select animals. Always follow staff instructions and use only approved food.
Popular exhibits include the primate area with the baby macaque, the big cat enclosures with the Amur tiger,
and the dinosaur trail.
Many visitors also enjoy the diverse range of animals and the beautiful floral displays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Blank Park Zoo offers concessions with typical zoo fare like hot dogs, burgers, snacks, and drinks. There are also picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated picnic areas.
While specific menus can change, most zoo concessions offer some variety. It's advisable to check the current offerings on their website or inquire at the food stands upon arrival for vegetarian or vegan choices.
Blank Park Zoo has several concession stands and a cafe-style eatery offering a range of food options for visitors.
Food prices at the zoo are comparable to other attractions. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a meal combo. Bringing your own snacks can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The flower archway is a popular photo spot. Many visitors also capture stunning shots of the animals, especially the baby macaque
and the Amur tiger.
The diverse exhibits offer endless photographic opportunities.
+1
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Blank Park Zoo. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. +1
While personal photos are fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash directly at animals. +1
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for capturing animals at various distances. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of exhibits or the flower archway. +1
Drone usage is typically prohibited at zoos and public parks to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and visitors. Check the zoo's specific policies if you have questions. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Couples & Adults
+1 It's a great opportunity to enjoy the zoo's atmosphere with live music and craft beverages, away from the daytime crowds. The zoo also offers beautiful floral displays 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation and Education
They actively participate in breeding programs for endangered species and work to protect habitats. Educational programs are offered for all ages, from school field trips to special events, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and respect for wildlife.The zoo's commitment extends to research, contributing valuable data to the scientific community. This dedication to conservation is evident in their exhibits, which often highlight the challenges faced by animals in the wild and what visitors can do to help. By supporting Blank Park Zoo, you're contributing to these crucial conservation initiatives.
Special Events and Experiences
+1 This provides a relaxed, social setting for adults to explore the zoo.Beyond Zoo Brew, the zoo often features seasonal attractions. The Dinosaur Discovery Trail brings prehistoric creatures to life, offering an exciting adventure for families.
Animal Spotlights: From Tiny Primates to Majestic Tigers
On the grander scale, the Amur tiger, Misha, is a star attraction.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit