Membership

Become a member, and join us on the journey to connect people, animals and the natural world to save wildlife. YOU make a difference in the success and growth of the Minnesota Zoo and its thousands of treasured species. Memberships are valid for one full year, and include many engaging benefits for individuals and families.

Purchase or Renew Your Membership

To purchase and/or renew a membership, click the membership package of your choice below. All prices are subject to change.

Benefits of Membership

The most important benefit! Active participant in saving animals and their natural habitats in Minnesota and around the globe.

Unlimited visits and free parking during regular daytime hours. Early access benefits at 9 a.m. daily! Members can get tickets online in advance or use the Member Walk-Up lane.

Pre-sale and discounts on select programming and events.

10% discount on regular priced merchandise at the Zoo store.

Complimentary member-only experiences throughout the year — including an online member content page, weekly communications, and programming lead by the Minnesota Zoo’s naturalist team.

Subscribe to Member Updates

If you are not receiving your member updates or would like to add an additional email address, please opt-in here!

Access Your Online Account

Resources include updating personal contact information, accessing your giving history, renewing your membership, reserving online tickets and more.

Membership FAQs

How do I get tickets to visit the Zoo?

Click here to get online tickets for daytime admission.  Your membership covers admission and parking. Tickets are required for everyone under your membership, including children 0-2 years of age. Logging into your online membership will give you access to your ticketing options.

As of September 8, Members like you can also enter the Zoo without getting online tickets in advance. Simply head to the Member Walk-Up lane and present your Membership card (physical or digital) along with a photo ID at the entrance. You can add on additional guest tickets and strollers at that time.

Your membership must be current on the date of your visit.

Is my membership refundable?

Memberships are nontransferable and nonrefundable.

Can I enter the Zoo without my member card and photo ID?

Please have proof of membership (physical card or digital) and a photo ID when you enter the Zoo. Examples of a photo ID include: Driver’s License, Minnesota State ID Card, Military ID, Passport, School ID, etc. If you forgot it, we are happy to verify details of your account.

Can I change my membership to a higher category?

Yes, you may upgrade your membership to a higher category at any time by calling 952.431.9200 or by visiting the Guest Services Desk upon your next visit.  The membership expiration date will remain the same and a fee will be charged for the difference in price.

Can my child/children come to the Zoo without the adult cardholders present?

Children that are included on Household and Household Plus memberships are welcome to visit without the named cardholder(s). Please send the children along with proof of membership, and a note from the cardholders or a photo ID for the listed dependent(s). Any additional guests not covered by your membership would receive discounted admission.

What is the difference between a Zoo Membership and Friends of the Minnesota Zoo?

Friends of the Minnesota Zoo is a giving society for those who donate $300 or more to the Minnesota Zoo Foundation. Friends of the Minnesota Zoo receive all the benefits of membership, additional Friends benefits, PLUS two free guests each visit.   More Information

Friends of the Minnesota Zoo FAQs

Does the Zoo have discounted memberships?

Discounted memberships are available when purchasing a quantity of 10 or more.

What is Early Access For Members?

Members can visit starting at 9 a.m. daily and wake up with the Zoo. During this special hour, animals will begin getting ready for their day by moving from their behind-the-scenes habitat into their public ones. Some animals are more active in the morning than others, so you may not see everyone- but this hour is a perfect opportunity for you to enjoy a quiet escape into the natural beauty and wonder of the Zoo.
Get online tickets –or– use the special Member Walk-Up Lane. Please present Membership card (physical or digital) along with a photo ID at the entrance.

How soon can I use my membership after purchasing online or at the Zoo?

Your membership starts immediately. When you join online you will receive an e-mail confirmation to use as your temporary membership card during your Zoo visit. Please log out and back into your account to access the $0 member admission tickets.

Can I purchase a membership as a gift for someone else?

Yes, please call us at 952.431.9200 or order online

Do members pay for parking?

Parking is free for members during regular Zoo hours. If arriving in separate vehicles, your non-member guests are required to pay for parking.

Can I bring a guest to member events?

Member only events cover those listed under your membership level.

How long does it take to receive my member cards?

Your member card will be mailed within 2-3 weeks of purchase date. You can access your digital membership card right away by downloading the Minnesota Zoo app.

How many cards will I receive? 

In efforts to align with the Zoo’s mission of being a conservation leader, households will receive one recyclable membership card. You can request an additional or replacement card for an $8 fee.

Is my membership payment tax deductible?

Yes. Your payment, less the fair market value of the benefits you receive, is deductible for income tax purposes. Under Internal Revenue Service guidelines, the estimated value of standard-level membership benefits is not substantial; therefore the full amount of your payment is a deductible contribution. The Minnesota Zoo’s Federal Tax ID # is 41-600-7162. Please contact the Zoo’s Membership Office at 952-431-9478 for additional information. For tax deduction information for Friends of the Minnesota Zoo program, call the Minnesota Zoo Foundation at 952-431-9447.

What if I have other questions?

Send an email to [email protected] or call 952.431.9200. The Box Office is open during regular Zoo business hours. The Membership office is open Monday – Friday from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

13000 Zoo Boulevard
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952.431.9200

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