Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Minnesota Zoo

    3.9 (262 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Minnesota Zoo Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Minnesota Zoo

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Angie S.

    This is a wonderful zoo to experience if in MInnesota. There are a few different loops to take and visit various types of wildlife. Example-the Tropics trail is all the rainforest type creatures. Outside there are statues, big cats and birds. Inside you'll find sea lions, sharks, turtles, aquariums full of fish and more Some bonuses here are the traveling holiday exhibits like the Fall pumpkin walk, pandemic light up animal drive thru, and the concerts at the zoo! A membership is worth it to save on the entrance & parking fees.

    Erica W.

    We are enamored with learning of wildlife and different habitats. Coming from Colorado and frequenting the renowned Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, we were pleasantly surprised to find this zoo and the upkeep reminding us of that one. Its nicely spaced out, the animals are well taken care and apart from a few customer service issues, the staff are really great. We have been several times already and are enjoying the changing of the seasons, the decor, and watching the animals frolic. I definitely recommend visiting!

    Refillable soft drink tumbler and icee kids cup
    Phillip Y.

    We got zoo membership here and made use of the refillable tumbler and cup. We like the zoo enough to visit a few times a month. There are some renovations being made. Treetop trail is pretty nice and playgrounds keep our kids busy. It is larger than como zoo but the cafe prices are pretty pricey. Also we enjoy the indoor exhibits and toddler area next to penguin exhibit. We also have seen the sea lion show and bird show too. Both are what makes it better than como zoo shows. However como town is something unique that only Minnesota zoo have the carousel only.

    Mikhala F.

    Popping in with another review about a Zoo event (I still have yet to experience the actual zoo during regular hours lol): this was my first season visiting the Jack-o-lantern Spectacular, and I was blown away! This will 100% be a tradition for my family and I each October. I visited with family a few weeks ago and was totally blown away. The amount of detail and artistry in each of the special pumpkins is unreal! Not to mention the 5000+ other pumpkins that make the area so spectacular! It's clear the team behind this puts so much care and attention to detail into making sure this is a magical experience. My mom and brother visited last weekend and wanted to go, so I went for a second time this season and was prepared to see the same pumpkins. But NO, they were all new! Not only do they refresh the pumpkins every 3-5 days, they carve totally new concepts so no trip is ever the same! Just pure magic. I had hyped this up to my family a ton and they still said it way overdelivered. KEY TIP: Pick the 6pm time slot and arrive right away! It's still plenty dark once you get to the pumpkin viewing part, and the lines were crazy around 7:30/8 as we were leaving. It was a 5-star experience because we didn't have to wait in line and had plenty of personal space during the experience.

    Tammi W.

    Lots of walking. Some big open areas between exhibits. Zoo with aquarium. Map can be hard to read and we almost missed some habitats. Has leafy sea dragons which are only at a few places in the US. Most unique animal, I've never seen nor even heard of these before, the mangalitsa pig. It's the cutest ever furry brow pig.

    Chris E.

    Amazing top 10 zoo of the country and top 5 for the size! You have to buy a season pass online. That's the best way to go. Then you can go when ever you want and you can go a hour before the single day tickets. You basically get to see the animals with out tons of people around you! Our favorites are the gibbons!!! They get really loud when they sing back and forth! The mn trail has many really cool animals. If you don't see them, ask. Because they are there!! The Dino's are amazing. They are a must stop and can get a little scary! Overall the zoo is amazing and is a must do anytime of the year!!

    AMAZING lion!
    Tara H.

    September 27 jack o' lantern spectacular night for zoo members invited by my daughter. GRACIOUS!! The 20,000 pumpkins all hand carved for display over five weeks!- - fresh made replacements every 10 days. ( the old ones are then specially prepared for the animals to consume ( excellent for digestion/ wonderful nutrients!) The THOUSANDS of BACK Breaking truly STUPENDOUS all hand-made-precision, creations mustering up fierce , grit determination by the artists who push themselves to an EXTREME to create a "Never Never land" of exquisite meticulous beauty simply not found today anywhere and composed so perfectly!! Each area had wonderful acoustic speakers deep base resounding with fabulous energizing heart soaring ROCK & ROLL ( and Prince!) - - the " marachino cherry" to this one-of-kind uplifting super exciting total experience!!! I felt like little coco entering the magical world of Dia de Los Muertos with joyous music blasting through my entire body, around each corner, folks merrily dancing away! Thank goodness I took lots of video and perfect close ups of my favorite huge carved pumpkins. Will happily replay over and over again! Enjoy!

    Jennifer B.

    This is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Minnesota! The adult nights are fantastic, especially in the cooler weather, when the animals are super active. Adult nights/Wild Nights take place from 5-8 pm, and you must be 18+ to attend. That means all of the good parts of the zoo (animals, beer, FREE beer tastings) without any of the annoying parts (heat, crying children, moving children away from windows so that you can see the animals). The petting zoo without children is also a must, especially in Farm Baby Season. Sometimes there are special theme nights, like beer tastings, music, or art vendors, and they are all worth going to. I have seen caribou running laps, bears climbing trees (and swimming- see photos) and snow leopards playing at adult nights. The events are even great no matter the weather because of the Northern Trail and the Tropics Trail, so there is something for every kind of weather. The silent disco is also fun, especially with friends, and while you are waiting for your food truck order. You really should check it out! (yes, I really was THAT close to the bear)

    Minnesota Zoo Entrance
    Karina C.

    Minnesota Zoo is huge!! We walk around 6 miles to explore the whole zoo, we were visiting from California. The Zoo has grizzly Bears I was impressed to see them so close and it's beautiful in the inside forest with so many different birds and reptiles. If you visit Minnesota you need to go explore the Zoo it's worth it. Hubby and I enjoyed the whole Zoo look at my pictures and videos. Recommended it.

    Winnie L.

    This review is for the Minnesota Zoo Wild nights event that they host after hours. You get to go to the zoo once it closes and tour the zoo as well as enjoy the entertainment the zoo brings in. I went with a large group and had a ton of fun. When there was still daylight, we walked around to check out all the animal habitats. There is a llama trek where for an extra fee, you can take a llama for a walk. The walk around the zoo was very nice and it is a well maintained zoo. For the evening, there were several food truck vendors as well as entertainment. One area was designated for the silent disco section, one was for karaoke, and two other areas had live bands. The amphitheater had a band called Pop Rocks and they were super entertaining as the vocalist dressed up as the artist for the song they were singing. Parking was plentiful and we all had a really good time. Staff was very friendly.

    Chad M.

    As I began to approach Minnesota Zoo, I started to anticipate a memorable experience. My significant other and I landed in the South Entrance Gibbon Lot and parked there. We walked towards the Lower South Entrance and we had to halt everything. There was a sign that stated Welcome! Online tickets required and available at MNZoo.org Scan QR code for tickets. This was a rather odd obstacle in our path. There was complimentary Wi-Fi here under the network Minnesota Zoo Free Wireless. Online, I checked out the Admission and Parking section. General Admission for Non-Members that were Adults ages 13-64 was $23.95. Additional Charges was Parking: Car or Van $10.00. I clicked Zoo Timed Admission and for the Times Available, I chose 1:30 PM. The sign before the building entrance stated Online Tickets Only. This seemed to be a serious thing here and I thought it was a poor business practice. Fortunately, it was fast to scan my e-Ticket. Our first stop was Discovery Bay. I got to see the Spotted garden eel and the Splendid garden eel in a display there. They were unique and interesting to watch. Not too far from them was the Shrimp display. They looked vibrant and it was worth the stop. Northern Trail was an awesome section of Minnesota Zoo. I almost had to stop to see the Bison display. There were quite a few of these beautiful animals. Right past them was the Black-tailed Prairie Dog display. They were small and adorable. Seeing the Moose was the best part of the day. It appeared rare and I felt honored to see it. The Reindeer or Caribou display was exciting. They seemed active and it was nice to admire them from afar. Our last stop was Minnesota Trail. I got to see the Coyote display. They were beautiful. After that, I saw the Gray Wolf. It was large and gorgeous. Not too far away was the Puma (AKA cougar, mountain lion, panther) display. They were active. We headed towards the South Entrance/Exit. Going through the Zoo Exit door was the worst part of the day. The service was good. Everyone I encountered was friendly. I didn't have any issues in that category. Overall, I had a decent time here and I enjoyed seeing every animal I encountered. I might go back someday. Date of visit: January 29, 2025

    Baby Tiger Cubs
    Karisa L.

    The Minnesota Zoo is well maintained and has a lot of room so even on a busy day it doesn't feel to crowded. We purchased a membership which is great because then you get to enter the zoo as early as 9 am. Our favorite spot is discovery bay where you can pet a shark and starfish. We were lucky enough to see the new baby tiger cubs today and they were active and playing around. Another plus about the zoo is you can bring your own food and snacks but if you need something to eat I recommend the outside spot by the playground and splash pad the food quality is best there.

    Zoo map

    See all

    12 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    One of the best zoos around! Get a membership! It's worth it if you go twice. The kids love the animals. Good workout walking around.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dan C.
    1088
    1424
    781

    1 year ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joseph B.
    39
    36
    14

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Ashley F.
    72
    35
    50

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    The best place ever i recommend it i wish they had more at the zoo they do a good job

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lisa P.
    284
    532
    1805

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 24
    Thanks 0
    Love this 21
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kris B.
    1
    30
    71

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 7

    Ask the Community - Minnesota Zoo

    Is the food at mn zoo safe for kids?

    I am sure that the food served at the Minnesota Zoo meets and exceeds the health requirements of food and health inspectors. As for the food coloring in the ice cream cone, one of which I had, it would be up to you to decide what they eat of what is… Read more

    How much for family tickets?

    Age Zoo Prices 0 - 2 yrs. old Free 3 - 12 yrs. old $12.00… Read more

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Minnesota Zoo

    The views from the treetop trail are nothing short of captivating.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Zoos 166 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - Giraffe

    Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

    4.2(438 reviews)
    15.0 miComo

    It is no wonder that I love to visit the Conservatory in the dead of winter. There is no better…read morefeeling than going there when it's below zero, and your body does not even remember what humidity feels like. Sure, going to Hawaii is great, but if you want something closer and thousands of dollars less expensive (it's actually free, but they suggest you give them a small donation upon entry), I recommend a quick trip to the indoor conservatory. Save the zoo for a nice summer day. My two favorite areas are the topics, and the Sunken Garden. The tropics is the place to go for a hot, steamy reprieve from the Minnesota winter. It has lots of fun swimming animals, a sloth that is about as lively as a stuffed bear, but the biggest attraction, for me, is the incredible hot, moist area. But that's just one area of the Conservatory. Don't miss the larger part that includes jungle-type foliage, wonderful plants, and a display of orchids. We were there the weekend after the orchid show, but we were treated to the award winning and amazingly beautiful orchids. The highlight however, is the seasonal changes that take place in the Sunken Garden. This is an ever changing variety of seasonal flowers and can cheer up the crankiest of us who are just trying to make it through to Spring.

    Visit here at least once a year Love that it is feee to the…read morepublic although it's nice to give a donation so it helps maintain the grounds Lots of good animal exhibits and the sunken garden is just beautiful every season! The conservatory dome is the perfect place to visit in the heart of winter , I'm talking negative temperatures because the dome is humid and hot (think Florida) because it helps the tropical plants Fun fact- Valentine's Day they do dinners in the gardens but sell out fast!

    Photos
    Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - January 2025

    January 2025

    Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - Giraffe

    Giraffe

    Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

    See all

    Sustainable Safari

    Sustainable Safari

    4.1(43 reviews)
    20.1 mi

    A good activity for the family that is indoors! We went on a Saturday and it was a little busy but…read morenot so busy that you couldn't enjoy seeing the animals up close. When you arrive you purchase your tickets and decide if you want to any add ons. You can purchase various sizes of feeding cups, experiences with the animals or opportunities to hold some of them. Once inside you can feed or pet any of the animals that are behind a single fence. Those further away or in glass enclosures are for observation. There are kangaroos, goats, lizards, chickens and more. There is a fun pulley system to feed some of the goats. They have an informational show that happens a few times a day where they discuss some of the animals and reptiles they house. It's not a huge space but we spent about an hour there. If you have real animal lovers you could be there longer. It's an interesting experience.

    Walking into Maplewood Mall, the first thing you smell is strong marijuana--and it lingers…read morethroughout the entire mall. The bathrooms by the food court were filthy. That should have been our warning. Then we got to Sustainable Safari. Disgusting. Do not go here. Do not bring your kids here. We paid nearly $40 just to get in and were hit with an overpowering urine smell immediately. The place is dirty. The animals are being fed wilted, rotting produce--I watched a monkey dig through a whole bowl just to find something edible. Animals looked stressed and overcrowded: kangaroos in tiny enclosures, goats packed into filthy hay, turkeys missing feathers, lemurs pacing, and an armadillo clearly in distress. They also don't make it clear that you have to pay extra ($10+) just to interact with the animals. This place is not "sustainable"--it's depressing. Go to the Minnesota Zoo or Como Park Zoo and Conservatory instead

    Photos
    Sustainable Safari - We enjoyed all the capybaras!!!

    We enjoyed all the capybaras!!!

    Sustainable Safari
    Sustainable Safari - Snake experience you get to hold it

    See all

    Snake experience you get to hold it

    Minnesota Zoo - zoos - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...