About Great Plains Zoo

Animals in habitats & in displays. Zoo with wildlife from around the world plus a museum with over 100 mounted animals.

💬 What Parents Say

• 💡Plan for a half-day visit (1-2 hours) rather than a full day. The zoo's compact size means you can see all exhibits comfortably without feeling rushed, making it ideal for families with young children or those wanting a relaxed outing.
• 💡Take advantage of the reciprocal zoo membership program, which includes exclusive access to the San Diego Zoo. If you plan multiple visits or enjoy visiting other zoos, membership pays for itself quickly.
• 💡Visit during summer to enjoy the splash pad, which is perfect for cooling off on hot days and letting kids burn off energy while you continue exploring the zoo.
• 💡Don't miss the giraffe and animal viewing areas, which are the most talked-about exhibits. Animals are notably active during visits, offering better viewing experiences than at larger zoos.
• 💡Order food ahead at Roar Café to skip lines and save time. The zoo has plenty of shaded areas throughout, so you can comfortably explore on hot days without rushing back to air conditioning.

Hours