Zoos

Blank Park Zoo

Name: Blank Park Zoo
Address: 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, Des Moines, IA, US
Telephone: (515) 285-4722
Rating: 4.5

★★★★☆ 4.5 (6603 reviews)

📍 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

📞 (515) 285-4722

🌐 www.blankparkzoo.com

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Monday	10 AM–4 PM
Tuesday	10 AM–4 PM
Wednesday	10 AM–4 PM
Thursday	10 AM–4 PM
Friday	10 AM–4 PM
Saturday	10 AM–4 PM
Sunday	10 AM–4 PM

⭐ Want to stand out? Get featured ⭐

About Blank Park Zoo

Indoor/outdoor animal exhibits & more. Train rides, petting areas, carousel, concessions & more in a year-round zoo & conservation center. 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. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,603 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Zoo
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Best For: All ages
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

💡 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
⭐The zoo maintains high-quality indoor exhibits that allow year-round operations in Iowa's cold climate, though seasonal animal rotations significantly impact the outdoor experience during winter months

💬 What Visitors Say

🕐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.
💬Check the website before visiting to confirm which attractions are open, as seasonal closures are common. Notable example: sea lion training demonstrations only run during summer despite website listings suggesting year-round availability.
💬Purchase a membership—it pays for itself in just one visit according to visitor feedback, making it an excellent value for repeat visitors, especially families.
🕐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.
💬Take advantage of kids' free admission programs from summer reading initiatives and other community partnerships. Plan visits accordingly to maximize these opportunities.