Group Visits

The Minnesota Zoo welcomes groups of 15 or more, we offer multiple options based upon your type of group or how you arrive. Please note group tickets are not available at the zoo and must be arranged in advance.

Please email [email protected] or call 952-431-9585 with any group (15+) questions or assistance.  You may also contact our Call Center at 952-431-9200 for questions about regular tickets, zoo membership, Free to Explore or general questions.

The following groups are eligible for our group rate:

Groups comprised of 15 or more people that do not qualify as a youth/school group.

• Tour Operators
• Adult Groups
• Senior Groups
• Corporate Groups
• Community and Large Family Groups
• Groups that don’t fall into other categories
• Free to Explore Groups (see below for additional information)

Youth Groups
Youth, scout and school (PreK – college) groups qualify for our Field Trip program and rates.  Please click here to visit the Field Trip webpage and book your youth group.

Parties, Picnics, Room Rentals, All Zoo Rentals and Private Catered Events
For a list of private event spaces, catering menus and more please visit the Private Events webpage at https://mnzoo.org/private-events/   For questions, availability, or to reserve please contact Private Events via the link on this webpage.

Group Admission on a specific date (Reserve and Hold)
Motorcoach and bus groups, or those groups arriving and entering the zoo as a together we offer group admission. Group admission customers can reserve an estimated guest count and hold tickets unpaid until 2 weeks prior to arrival when the final count and payment is due. Most groups reserve group tickets 1 – 3 months in advance allowing them plenty of time to organize their group.

Group Rates Fall, Winter & Spring Rates
Adults $19
Children (3-12 yrs) $14
Adults (65+) $17
Parking $10 car/van
Bus Parking $15

Group Rates (Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day Weekend)
Adults $21
Children (3-12 yrs) $16
Adults (65+) $19
Parking $10 car/van
Bus Parking $15

Purchase Online Group Tickets on a specific date (Purchase)
Group tickets are now available here.

(Available for groups from 15 – 100 people only, online tickets issued)

Anytime Group Tickets

Anytime admission passes are flexible zoo admission tickets valid on any date for one flat rate, with parking included. Anytime Admission passes are valid for the calendar year and perfect for groups arriving at the zoo at separate times on the same date, or on different dates.

Adults (13-64 yrs) $22
Child (3-12 yrs) $22
Senior (65+) $22
Parking Included

Add Zoobucks to your Anytime ticket order to enjoy a meal, snack or souvenir from the gift shop. Zoobucks are available in $1, $5, and $10 denominations with the purchase of Anytime tickets.

Contact Minnesota Zoo Group Sales to reserve Group Tickets, purchase Anytime tickets, Zoobucks or questions at 952-431-9585 or email [email protected]

Free To Explore Groups

Free zoo admission is available for qualified groups on specific governmental assistance programs with qualified documents.  For a complete list of governmental assistance programs and required documents visit the Free to Explore program webpage at https://mnzoo.org/us/freetoexplore/

Online Free to Explore reservations for up to 10 people can be booked via the link found on this website but for groups of 11 or more or group questions email [email protected]   If you have questions on Free to Explore and you are not a group (10+) call 952-431-9200.

Special Events

Group rates are available for most Minnesota Zoo special events including Zoo After Hours, Bears and Brews plus Jack O Lantern Spectacular.  Contact Minnesota Zoo group sales for additional information, join our Special Event waitlist and receive early access to tickets at [email protected] or call 952-431-9585.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large can our group be?

Currently, the zoo is able to accommodate group reservations from 15 to several thousand people. If you have more than 100 people call us at 952-431-9585.

How do I book a group reservation?

Group tickets are now available from 15 -100 here.

What times can our group visit?

Group reservations can be made during regular Zoo hours, from 10 am to 4 pm (or 6 pm in the summer).

Are chaperones needed for groups with children?

We recommend one adult chaperone for every five kids (13 and younger).

Are group meals and dining space available?

Reserved indoor private dining spaces are not available currently. Groups are welcome to visit our multiple retail foodservice outlets including, the Call of the Wild food court. Groups may also purchase Zoobucks (1$ and 5$ increments), which can be redeemed at any onsite daytime retail food outlet or gift shop. Groups may also bring their own bag lunches, with outdoor and indoor picnic tables throughout the Zoo. The Call of the Wild food court dining tables are only available for groups that purchase food within the Call of the Wild. Call 952-431-9200 for details on food and beverage options at the Minnesota Zoo.

Can I book a group using the Free to Explore program?

Yes – those who qualify can make Free to Explore group reservations. Click here to learn more about our Free to Explore program and how to make an advanced online reservation.

13000 Zoo Boulevard
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952.431.9200

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