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Location
Parking
Parking available (cost not specified)
Best time
Visit during summer months (May-September) to see the full zoo experience with all major animals on display. Winter visits keep animals in heated barns with outdoor habitats empty, while admission prices remain full price—effectively reducing your experience by half.
Best time
Arrive mid-morning (around 10:30am) on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy exhibits without feeling rushed. This timing also means shorter lines at ticket booths and more relaxed viewing of animals.
About Blank Park Zoo
Indoor/outdoor animal exhibits & more. Train rides, petting areas, carousel, concessions & more in a year-round zoo & conservation center.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Location
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Highlights
- 60+ animal species including African Lion, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, penguins, seals, and conservation breeding programs
- Admission
- Children $15+, Adults $20+, Seniors $19+, Infants free
What visitors say
Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines: It's an excellent regional facility. The indoor exhibits are high-quality, beautifully maintained, and deserve top marks for their conservation focus. However, you must understand the "Value Trap." If you…
Blank Park Zoo is a fun and family-friendly place to visit. It’s clean, well-organized, and the animals look well cared for. The staff are friendly and informative, and there are plenty of shaded areas and rest spots. A great place for…
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…
From 6,603 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- Blank Park Zoo operates active conservation breeding programs including a Cotton-Top Tamarin breeding program and a Turtle hatchling conservation program, demonstrating its commitment to species preservation
- The zoo houses over 60 animal species across both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including rare species such as Snow Leopards, Amur Tigers, Eastern Black Rhinoceros, and Panamanian Golden Frogs
- Blank Park Zoo's membership program pays for itself in a single visit, making it an exceptional value proposition for repeat visitors
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