Blank Park Zoo, located on the south side of Des Moines, Iowa, near the historic Fort Des Moines, spans across 49 acres. This zoological park is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and is the only accredited zoo in Iowa. The zoo's mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
The Discovery Center is the first area visitors encounter when entering the Blank Park Zoo. This entirely enclosed area houses a variety of plant and animal species, offering visitors an immediate immersion into the zoo's diverse ecosystem. The Discovery Center is divided into different sections to create a unique viewing experience for each visitor.
In late June 2007, the Blank Park Zoo, in collaboration with the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute and hundreds of volunteers, built the Kids' Kingdom playground. This area includes slides, mazes, monkey bars, sand pits, fossil digs, and a mining sluice. The playground also features many 'contact animals' that visitors can feed, making it a fun and interactive experience for children.
Nature & Natural History Animals Zoo Children
Monday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Final admission and Discovery Center exhibit closes 30 minutes before the zoo closes.
7401 Southwest 9th StreetDes Moines, Des Moines
No exhibitions in Blank Park Zoo have been found.
Blank Park Zoo has 1 rating.
Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a moderately enjoyable experience for visitors. The zoo, while not extensive, houses a variety of animals in generally well-maintained enclosures. Visitors appreciate the compact size, which allows for a complete tour in a few hours, making it suitable for families with young children.
The zoo features some popular exhibits, including the big cats, primates, and a petting zoo area that is particularly enjoyed by kids. The Australian Adventure section and the sea lion show are often mentioned as highlights. However, some visitors note that the animal collection is somewhat limited compared to larger zoos.
Staff members are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, contributing to a positive atmosphere. The zoo's conservation efforts and educational programs are commendable, though some feel these aspects could be further expanded.
Maintenance of the facility is generally good, but some areas may benefit from updates or renovations. The zoo's layout is easy to navigate, with clear signage and accessible pathways.
Pricing is generally considered fair for the experience offered, though opinions vary on whether it provides full value for money. Some visitors suggest that additional interactive experiences or expanded exhibits would enhance the overall value.
While Blank Park Zoo may not compete with larger, more renowned zoos, it serves as a decent attraction for locals and tourists in Des Moines, particularly for those with children or those looking for a brief wildlife encounter.
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