





Zoos
Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines
📍 6925 Mills Civic Pkwy #125, West Des Moines, IA 50266About Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines
Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines is a zoo in West Des Moines, IA. Blue Zoo Aquarium features a fully interactive hands-on experience where visitors can touch and feed stingrays, starfish, birds, reptiles, and small fish, with stingray interactions being mentioned in 323 reviews and stingray petting specifically in 86 reviews. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,808 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Aquarium
- Best For
- All ages, families with kids
- Interactive Highlights
- Touch and feed stingrays, sharks, birds, reptiles; water play tables and pirate ship
- Special Offerings
- Birthday parties, field trips, annual passes
💡 Did You Know?
- Blue Zoo Aquarium features a fully interactive hands-on experience where visitors can touch and feed stingrays, starfish, birds, reptiles, and small fish, with stingray interactions being mentioned in 323 reviews and stingray petting specifically in 86 reviews
- The aquarium hosts mermaid shows as a regular attraction, mentioned in 81 visitor reviews
- Blue Zoo Aquarium maintains multiple specialized exhibit areas including a Saltwater Center, Fresh Water Center, Pirate Ship play structure, and Predators exhibit, providing diverse marine and freshwater ecosystem experiences
- The facility offers after-hours private events and birthday parties with highly-rated service, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews highlighting staff helpfulness and smooth party execution
💬 What Visitors Say
- Visit on a weekday for the best experience - reviews highlight minimal wait times and plenty of space to enjoy interactive exhibits, feeding opportunities, and animal encounters without crowds
- Plan for 2-3 hours minimum to fully experience all attractions including stingray petting, bird feeding, water play area, sand table, and interactive exhibits - multiple reviewers spent this duration comfortably
- This attraction is optimized for young children with hands-on animal interactions (stingray petting, starfish touching, bird feeding, tickle fish), water play areas, and a bouncy slide - ideal for families with kids under 10
- Book birthday parties or group visits here - staff receives consistent praise for being exceptionally helpful and accommodating, with smooth party execution and field trip options available
- Check for seasonal discount weeks like Homeschool Discount week to reduce admission costs, especially if planning multiple visits or back-to-back days
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