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Plan Your Day at the Minnesota Zoo

callie-larrabee
Callie Larrabee |

The Minnesota Zoo, located in Apple Valley, opened in 1978 and has become a world-class recreational destination for thousands of visitors each year. Home to more than 4,800 animals and multiple award-winning exhibits, visiting the zoo can be overwhelming, especially for families with young children. To help make your visit the amazing experience it should be, we have compiled a list of popular activities and events you can consider while planning your trip.

Have You “Herd?”

You “herd” right: Llamas are here! And they’re ready to share their zany personalities. Walk among them without barriers at Llama Trek, the zoo’s seasonal summer exhibit that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Daily Activities, Special Events & Attractions at the Minnesota Zoo

From classes and camps to overnight stays, the Minnesota Zoo has something for all ages. Activities include toddler time, family classes and backstage time with sloths, just to name a few.

The zoo also offers special events for adults. One of the most popular events is the Adults Night Out. These events are for adults 21 years or older and provide the opportunity to explore the zoo after hours while enjoying food and cocktails besides. Other special events include the Our World Speaker Series, Tropical Beach Party and Farm Babies.

Attractions at the Minnesota Zoo include the Woodland Adventure, which is an interactive, nature-based play area where children can roam and explore. You can beat the summer heat and cool off at the Splash Pad that has life-sized animal sculptures in the water fountain. Or, you can head over to the Hanifl Family Wild Woods to experience the immersive nature play area where kids can climb on, crawl through, and dig in nature.

Music in the Zoo

Music in the Zoo is an iconic summer concert series that is locally produced by​ esteemed promoter​ Sue McLean and Associates (SMA). The series features 25-plus outdoor concerts from June to August in the Weesner Family Amphitheater—this is the 27th year of this tradition! Visit suemclean.com/zoo to check out what music will be there this summer.

Food & Beverage

The Minnesota Zoo offers a wide variety of food for all attendees with options that range from burgers and mixed greens to pizza, sandwiches and tasty treats. You can also bring a picnic lunch to eat—the zoo has picnic tables outside that are available for visitors.

Open 363 days a year!

Daily through May 3:
9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Daily May 4–24:
Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Weekends 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Daily May 25–Sept. 2:
Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Weekends 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Daily Sept. 3–30:
Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Weekends 9 a.m.–6:00 p.m.