Zoos

Great Cats

Name: Great Cats
Address: Des Moines, IA 50315, Des Moines, IA, US
Telephone: (515) 285-4722
Rating: 4.7

★★★★☆ 4.7 (147 reviews)

📍 Des Moines, IA 50315

📞 (515) 285-4722

🌐 www.blankparkzoo.com

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Monday	9 AM–5 PM
Tuesday	9 AM–5 PM
Wednesday	9 AM–5 PM
Thursday	9 AM–5 PM
Friday	9 AM–5 PM
Saturday	9 AM–5 PM
Sunday	9 AM–5 PM

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About Great Cats

Great Cats is a zoo in Des Moines, IA. Great Cats features 70+ animal species including rare animals such as Amur Tigers, Snow Leopards, and Eastern Black Rhinoceros. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 147 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Zoo
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Best For: All ages
Highlights: 70+ animal species, giraffe feeding, Kids Kingdom, carousel, train rides
Admission: Children $15+, Adults $20+, Seniors $19+

💡 Did You Know?

⭐Great Cats features 70+ animal species including rare animals such as Amur Tigers, Snow Leopards, and Eastern Black Rhinoceros
⭐The zoo offers interactive giraffe feeding experiences available at scheduled times (11am, 1pm, 3pm) on weekends through Memorial Day
⭐Great Cats membership pays for itself in a single visit according to visitor tips, suggesting competitive pricing for the admission cost
⭐The zoo can be fully explored in 2.5-3 hours at a moderate pace, making it an efficiently-sized attraction for families

💬 What Visitors Say

💬Plan to spend 2.5-3 hours to experience the zoo at a moderate pace. This helps you budget time and decide whether to combine it with other activities.
🕐Visit on a weekday instead of weekends to avoid crowds, as reviewers noted the zoo gets very busy on nice days. Weekday visits provide a more leisurely experience.
💬A membership pays for itself in just one visit, making it an excellent value if you plan to return. This is particularly worthwhile for families with repeat visit potential.
💡Catch the giraffe feeding experience on weekends at 11am, 1pm, or 3pm (through Memorial Day) — this is a signature interactive highlight that shouldn't be missed. Note that feedings are subject to availability.
💡The zoo is stroller-friendly with plenty of seating throughout, making it ideal for families with young children. Kids Kingdom, petting areas with miniature donkeys, and carousel rides provide multiple engaging activities for little ones.