Blank Park Zoo
Des Moines, United States
4,5
(6.827)
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About Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo is a family-friendly destination located in Des Moines, Iowa, dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. Established to provide a safe haven for various animal species, the zoo features a diverse range of exhibits that allow visitors to learn about wildlife from around the world. The zoo is known for its engaging animal encounters, including opportunities to feed giraffes and watch sea lion training demonstrations.
With a focus on creating memorable experiences, Blank Park Zoo offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, making it a popular spot for families and animal lovers alike. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of animals, participate in educational activities, and enjoy the beautiful park-like setting.
health and well-being.
It includes giving animals proper food, clean living spaces, medical care, and treating them with respect.
These standards help make sure animals live safe, healthy, and stress-free lives.
Parking is available on-site for visitors to Blank Park Zoo. It is free of charge, making it convenient for families and groups. Be sure to arrive early during peak times to secure a good parking spot, as the lot can fill up quickly on weekends and during special events.
- Bring a camera to capture memorable moments with the animals.
- Food and dining options are available on-site, offering a variety of meals and snacks.
- Stroller rentals are available for families with young children.
- Check the zoo's schedule for daily events and animal encounters to plan your visit effectively.
- The zoo is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
- Home to over 1,000 animals across 100 species.
- Features unique animal experiences such as the Tortoise Experience and Okapi Experience.
- Offers daily animal feeding sessions, including giraffe and penguin feedings.
- Hosts educational programs aimed at connecting visitors with wildlife and conservation efforts.
- Provides a scenic park-like environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Paid Experiences
Zoo to You
Description
Bring the wonder of wildlife to your classroom, organization or event with engaging, hands-on animal experiences.
Birthday Parties
Description
Celebrate your special day with a unique birthday party at the zoo, complete with animal encounters and fun activities.
Aldabra Tortoise Experience
Description
Meet Blank Park Zoo’s oldest resident, snap a photo, and learn about the history of the tortoises at the zoo.
Ambassador Animal Experience
Description
Get nose to nose with some of the amazing animals featured in our education programs and learn about their natural history.
Okapi Experience
Description
Come face-to-face with the okapi, the world's only living relative of the giraffe.
Giraffe Feeding
Description
Feed the giraffes and enjoy a unique interaction with these gentle giants.
Koi Feeding
Description
Feed the koi fish and enjoy a hands-on experience with these colorful creatures.
Safari Camps
Description
Engaging camps that provide children with unique experiences to learn about wildlife and conservation.
Animal Ambassador Program
Description
Two special animal visitors with a zoo staff member to guide questions. Programs are 30 minutes.
Weddings
Description
Host your big day at Blank Park Zoo with unique indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 450 guests.
Ambassador Animal Programs
Description
Private programs for up to 40 people featuring engaging animal experiences.
Vet Clinic Tours
Description
Private behind the scenes tours of the Animal Health Center for up to 15 people.
Career Panels
Description
Engage with Zoo staff to explore different career options available at a Zoo.
School's Out Safari
Description
Single day camps that take place throughout the school year on days when metro schools are out for holidays or teacher professional development.
Summer Safari
Description
Exciting, week-long adventures that provide children in grades Prek-7 with the opportunity to engage with nature and build environmental stewardship.
Classes
Description
Blank Park Zoo offers a variety of engaging classes for young children and their favorite adults.
Presentation-style Programs
Description
30-60 minute programs covering a variety of topics with a scheduled start and end time.
Festival-style/booth programs
Description
Tabletop or stationed events with educational games and activities booked by the hour.
Classroom Programs
Description
Interactive K-12 programming aligned with Iowa Core Science and Next Generation Science Standards.
Assemblies
Description
Engaging assemblies designed to foster empathy and inspire action for nature in students.
After School Programs
Description
Fun, hands-on learning experiences for students in after school programs.
Virtual Programs
Description
30-minute keeper chats with fun, educational stories about the animals.
Photos are illustrative and do not depict the actual experience or animals at this zoo. We do our best to keep experience details accurate, but always check with the zoo directly for the latest information.
