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Location & Hours
Where is Blank Park Zoo located? – Blank Park Zoo is located on the south side of Des Moines on SW 9th street, about 1.5 miles north of the Highway 5 Bypass.
What are the Zoo’s hours? – Blank Park Zoo is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Final Admission and Discovery Center exhibit close 30 minutes before the Zoo closes.
Admission & Membership
How much is admission - Admission to the Zoo is as follows:
Children (1 year and under) - Free
Children (2 - 12 years) - $15.00
Adults (13 - 64 years) - $20.00
Senior Citizens (65+ years) - $19.00
Do I need to buy tickets in advance? – Advance tickets are encouraged, but not required.
Are memberships available? – Memberships are available to purchase at the membership desk at the Zoo or online.
Group Visits
Is there a discount for large groups? - A discount is available for groups of 15 or more paying guests, available online at least 24 hours in advance. Discounts are also available for school groups. More details are available here.
Please be aware that memberships are not valid for group visits.
Accessibility
Is the Zoo wheelchair accessible? – Yes, all pathways through the Zoo are ADA accessible.
Do you offer sensory-friendly resources? – Yes, Our partnership with Kulture City enhances our ability to accommodate and assist guests with sensory processing needs. Download the Kulture City app on iOS or Android for resources, help, and Sensory Inclusive™ locations. Sensory bags and weighted lap blankets are also available for checkout at admissions with a driver’s license.
Parking & Transportation
Is parking free? – Yes, parking at the Zoo is free
Is there RV or bus parking? – Bus and RV parking is available in the gravel overflow parking lot. Buses and RVs are not allowed to park in the east and west parking lots.
Food & Beverages
Can I bring my own food? – While you are not allowed to bring food into the Zoo, your admission is good for the entire day to come and go as you please and we have picnic areas available around the parking lots.
Are food options available on-site? – Yes, snacks are available in the Wild Things Gift shop and GoGo Plaza and meal options are available at the Safari Grill by Hy-Vee, open seasonally.
Animals & Attractions
Are all animals viewable year-round? – Not all animals are viewable year round, but there indoor viewing opportunities for some of the animals that can’t be out during the colder months. Some animals that can be viewed during colder months may be more active than in the summer.
Are there animal feedings or encounters? – Yes, depending on the weather, the animals in Kids Kingdom can be fed, as well as the giraffe and Alpacas of Alpaca aces, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Rentals & Events
Can I rent the Zoo for an event? - Yes, the Zoo is available for all types of events from smaller groups to the entire Zoo. Please click here for more information.
What types of events does the Zoo host? – The Zoo hosts events for all ages, from our annual Night Eyes trick-or-treat event, to Zoo Brew for adults, to events that explore Blank Park Zoo’s conservation priorities. Information for upcoming events can be found here.
Safety & Policies
What is the Zoo’s weather policy? – The Zoo is open, rain or shine.
Is smoking allowed? – No, Blank Park Zoo prohibits smoking, vaping, chewing, or any consumption of tobacco products and all illegal drugs on Zoo grounds in accordance with state law and for the health and safety of our animals.
Still Have Questions?
Include a contact line and link or reference to our contact form or phone number. – For any additional questions please contact us at (515) 285-4722 or email us at info@blankparkzoo.com.