





💬 What Parents Say
- Take advantage of the completely free admission to explore at your own pace. With multiple attractions included (zoo, walking trails, carousel, train ride), plan for 2-3 hours to experience everything without feeling rushed.
- The miniature train ride is a visitor favorite and worth experiencing early in your visit. It's one of the most mentioned attractions, so arriving earlier in the day may mean shorter wait times.
- Combine the free zoo with the affordable mini golf ($2) and playground areas on the east side of the park for a full day of family activities. This makes for an excellent budget-friendly outing for families with children.
- Ask about the ZooMobile inquiry form or school field trip programs when visiting. These educational programs can enhance your experience with guided learning opportunities about the animals and park.
- Be aware that some animal enclosures may be empty or smaller than expected based on visitor feedback. Focus on actively displayed animals like the cougar, sloth, bears, peacocks, and swans for the best viewing experience.
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 |
Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo
📍 400 Mickey Mantle Wy, Independence, KS 67301Type
Zoo
Founded
1925 (park established 1914)
Best For
All ages
Notable Attractions
Monkey Island (home of space-traveling monkey Miss Able), carousel, miniature train, steam locomotive
Accessibility
ADA accessible facilities, Sensory Garden for children with disabilities